Winter Garden Atrium, New York, NY

Barrel Vault Skylight Sealing

The Winter Garden is a ten-story high, aluminum framed, glass vaulted atrium in the Brookfield Place complex.  It was originally constructed in 1986.  The atrium has experienced leaks since it was first constructed.  These leaks occur at various times, with no defined pattern.   Re-caulking and sealing was performed over the next 15 years.   During the September 11 terrorist attacks, 70% of the structure was destroyed.  Reconstruction was performed consisting of a new barrel vault skylight system on the eastern side in 2002. Since the reconstruction, new leaks have appeared in addition to the old ones.  Despite re-caulking and wet sealing performed in 2010 leaks continued.

The atrium skylight consists of three sections that vary in width.  The barrel vault skylight consists of curved vertical extruded aluminum structural mullion that supports glass panels and the window washing track.  There are horizontal mullions or purlins that transfer the load of the glass to the structural mullions.

The glass to metal joint has been wet sealed with silicone sealant.  The barrel vault skylight sits on a roof curb that is capped with aluminum flashing, with transverse joints that exhibit deteriorated sealant.

Diaz Architect & Associates, P.C. performed an extensive investigation of the Winter Garden Atrium to design the remedy for the water infiltration for the barrel vault skylight.  Repairs included removing the track covers of the window washing track and waterproofing track to rafter anchors.  This minimal repair ended many years of manor water infiltration.