UTA Central Library Roof Replacement Project to Expected to Begin this Fall

UTA Libraries will undergo a $1.6 million roof replacement project at the Central Library expected to begin this fall. The project is anticipated to take six to eight weeks to complete, weather permitting, and will help protect one of the University's busiest academic buildings for years to come.

The current roof has reached the end of its service life. Replacing it will improve the building's energy efficiency, increase insulation and provide a more comfortable environment for students, faculty, staff and visitors. 

"The roof that's currently on our building is over 30 years old, so it needs a new roof," Howard Schaffer, Maintenance Coordinator for UTA Libraries, said. "This project is going to give us extra insulation properties, which would cut down on energy costs and provide a better comfort level inside the building." 

The project involves removing the existing roof down to the concrete roof deck before installing a new roofing system. According to Schaffer, the cost reflects the complexity of replacing the roof on a six-story building, including the specialized equipment needed to safely access the roof and remove the existing materials. 

The Central Library will remain open throughout construction. 

To support the project, the parking lot next to the Libraries’ loading dock, the rear entrance off the loading dock/mail room and the adjacent green space behind the building will be closed. The area will be used for construction staging, including materials, dumpsters and a crane. Barricades and directional signage will be in place to guide visitors safely around the work zone. The Libraries staff members are working to coordinate deliveries, trash pickup and other uses through the sliding front door.     

The sidewalks along both sides of the building will remain open during construction. Visitors should use the Libraries front entrance, which will be the only public entrance open during the project. All emergency exits will remain accessible. 

Construction is expected to begin around 6 a.m. each day and continue for eight to 10 hours. During periods of extreme heat, crews may begin work as early as 4 a.m. 

Library visitors should also expect periodic construction noise and the smell of hot asphalt, which is used waterproof the roof that protect the building from water infiltration. 

Schaffer said he appreciates the campus community's patience while the work is underway. 

"We know construction can be inconvenient, but this investment will help preserve the Central Library and create a more comfortable building for everyone who uses it," Schaffer said.