Monmouth University - Woodrow Wilson Hall Roof Restoration Project

Forms

Prequalification Form for Contractors

Prequalification Form for Professional Services

Under Construction

Art Building

Just Finished

Soccer Lighting Project

Information Management Addition

Past Projects

Mullaney Hall

Multipurpose Activity Center

Jules L. Plangere Jr. Center for Communication and Instructional Technology (CCIT)

Campus Planning Home Page

Woodrow Wilson Hall
Roof Restoration Project

Introduction:

The Woodrow Wilson Hall Roof Restoration Project consists of the replacement of the waterproofing membrane and restoration of the roof surfaces at this National Historic Landmark structure. This is an extensive project, phased over many years, designed to bring these roofs back to their original state using both salvaged and new materials.

Background:

Woodrow Wilson Hall (built 1927-1930) is the former main building of Shadow Lawn estate and residence of Hubert Parson, president of F.W. Woolworth Co. Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1985, it was officially recognized by the federal government as possessing national significance. The main roof consists of 22,000-square-feet of terra cotta tile, copper flashing, perimeter limestone balustrade, a 2,800-square-foot copper skylight enclosure, seven chimneys, four small skylight housings, and a limestone solarium.

Secondary roofs/terraces consist of alternating patterns of marble and limestone pavers with elegantly detailed bronze railings.

Existing Conditions/Problems:

Roofing systems are now 72 years old and are failing to maintain a watertight environment. Some of the leaking and deterioration observed throughout building is damaging both exterior and interior historic spaces. A series of earlier, smaller roof repair campaigns have not solved the water infiltration, and in some cases have exacerbated the situation.

Solution/Goals:

Implement a watertight roofing solution for the building while preserving as much of the original fabric/historic character defining features as possible.

All roofs and terraces will be completely rehabilitated using a combination of preservation, repair, and restoration techniques. Final product will be a restoration of the original roofs in appearance, but with more effective and watertight materials and detailing. Do all this without disrupting the day to day operation of the building.

The project has been phased as follows:

Phase 1 - Old Board Room Terrace, Annex Link Roof, President's Terrace, Main Entry Portico Roof
Phase 2 - Balustrade removal
Phase 3 - Main Roof membrane replacement, replacement of Small Skylights
Phase 4 - Balustrade restoration, Main Roof restoration, Skylight Enclosure restoration

The first phase of the project has received a $750,000 grant from the New Jersey Historic Trust. As the building is a National Historic Landmark, all repair work must adhere to strict guidelines set forth by the U.S. Department of the Interior. We have retained a team of experienced historic preservation specialists, Easton Architects, LLP to design and guide the project.

Phase 1 Construction Photos:

Old Board Room Terrace