Inside the New Air Force Visitor Center

As you travel on I-25 near Colorado Springs, a striking silhouette rises against the skyline, poised as if ready for takeoff.

This new Air Force Visitor's Center, built to resemble the sleek form of a B-2 bomber, is more than just a nod to aviation—it’s a bold architectural statement. In late 2023, Douglass Colony Group, a skilled Elevate Roofing Contractor, started this ambitious project. The roofing was important not just for its function but also as a key part of the dynamic design.

An Elevate commercial roofing system was selected for this critical task, trusted to deliver a roofing solution that would withstand Colorado’s harsh winter conditions while meeting the aesthetic goals and the demands of the project’s design.

The roof’s design, combining flat and sloped metal deck sections, required precision to ensure the roof remained watertight during installation. The center of the roof features a full tapered insulation system that includes progressive insulation thicknesses around the perimeter for proper drainage and to achieve flush connections to the parapet walls and the gravel stop. Installation had to start in specific locations to ensure uniform appearance of the completed system, and to keep the building watertight throughout the installation.

What’s the Process for Commercial Roofing in Cold Weather? 

Aaron Harvey, Construction Executive of Douglass Colony Group, noted that winter construction in Colorado brought additional hurdles. To address freezing temperatures, the team employed hotboxes, which are enclosed heated areas used to keep roofing materials at optimal temperatures prior to installation. In Colorado’s cold climate, roofing membranes can become rigid, and adhesives can be challenging to mix and dispense properly. Keeping these materials warm until ready for use allows for proper application and adhesion despite the cold weather. 

Completing this project was a significant achievement, not just because of its scale, but due to its importance to the Air Force. The roof, designed to represent an aircraft symbolizes the innovation and power of the Air Force. Harvey shared that Douglass Colony Group is immensely proud to have been a key contributor to this high-profile project, playing a pivotal role in bringing this landmark structure to life.

For more information about the Elevate materials used on this project, please contact your Elevate Sales Representative.

_{*The thermal performance of ISOGARD polyiso insulation is up to 40% better than major competitors when tested by an independent third party in cold temperature 40°F (4°C) applications according to ASTM C1289 standards. The increased R-value per inch means better thermal performance from the same roofing systems using the same amount of insulation compared to leading competitive products on the market today.}