News : IBSSS project to feature modern simulated slate composite roofing

Workers install the Eco Star simulated slate shingles.

Simulated slate: New IBSSS roofing material is a rubber/plastic composite.

The sun rises above the cupola at the Iowa Braille School, where roof replacement continues.

Work will continue on the IBSSS buildngs through February.

From a distance; the completed parts of the new roof of the Iowa Braille School look similar to the slate surface that originally protected the buildings from the elements.

But take a closer look, and you will see that the blue-grey shingles are not made from slate or asphalt, but a composite plastic/ruber compound. These Eco Star simulated slate shingles come with a 50-year warranty and are designed to resist hail as well as wind.

IBSSS officials say some buildings will be finished next month, with the project expected to be completed by the end of February 2014.

"Rice and Palmer roof tear off is complete," says Kevin Kacena, Supervisor of Plant Services. "Palmer is 85% shingled, we are waiting for the front gutter and truss repair which will be done next week and the remainder of the shingles will be put down the week after. Rice is about 75% shingled, I would expect them to be done with Rice this week. Both roofs will be complete and the lighting protection installed by July 12th."

Kacena says that the simulated slate shingles are going on nicely and look very much like the intended slate appearance.

Concerning the roof of the Old Main building, Kacena says: "We have had a few delays due to weather and some structural issues that needed to be addressed but they have been resolved and work continues."

The updated schedule, says Kacena, puts the cupola complete Sept. 12, the center section complete September 30, the north section complete Dec. 11, the south section complete Jan. 3, and project close-out Feb. 26.

"We have also finished planting nearly 140 trees to replace those damaged by the storm," he adds.