
New York
Joseph Slifka Center for Jewish Life at Yale
Exceptional waterproofing for a walkable skylight
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Category
Roofing Solutions, Waterproofing & Deck Coating Solutions -
Completed
2023 -
Type
Higher Education -
Size
19,000 sq. ft.
Challenge
The Joseph Slifka Center for Jewish Life at Yale is the hub for students, faculty, and community members at Yale University, providing a space for Jewish learning, cultural programs, religious services, and social events. The center welcomes students of all backgrounds and levels of observance, providing a pluralistic environment where they can engage with Jewish traditions, values, and leadership opportunities. Constructed in 1995, the building was designed to accommodate the growing needs of Yale's Jewish community. The 19,000 sq. ft. structure recently underwent renovations to enhance its facilities, but the dining hall, in particular, required more seating and functionality. The challenge was finding a way to expand the dining hall's seating capacity while preserving the natural light provided by the courtyard alongside it.
Solution
The solution was to incorporate a walkable skylight over the courtyard, seamlessly blending functionality with design. This approach not only expanded the dining hall's seating capacity but also preserved the natural light that enhances the space, and offered a versatile surface where students and staff could gather.
These renovations have revitalized the building's exterior, enhanced its functionality, and transformed the space into a versatile hub for student programs — all while prioritizing sustainability and design innovation.
- Walking surface waterproofing and pavers
To address waterproofing challenges, the design incorporated Siplast materials and matching porcelain pavers on pedestals over insulation to ensure long-term durability and functionality. - Sealing to maintain structural integrity
To address issues from the original build involving poor flashings that resulted in water damage, leading to corrosion of conduits within the exterior walls, Siplast assisted the project's building envelope consultant to effectively seal these areas. - Seamless transitions between assemblies
Siplast solutions allowed for the technical detailing of the existing flashing conditions and complex transitions of the new assemblies.
These renovations have revitalized the building's exterior, enhanced its functionality, and transformed the space into a versatile hub for student programs — all while prioritizing sustainability and design innovation.
Siplast Systems
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PMMA Flashing Resins and Roof Membrane
Parapro Flashing Resin and Parapro Roof Membrane Resin, when individually catalyzed, are combined with polyester fleece to form a monolithic, reinforced waterproofing flashing membrane or roof membrane system. Parapro Flashing Resin is designed for use in conjunction with a variety of Siplast roofing and waterproofing systems for flashing details and as a repair material. Parapro Roof Membrane Resin is designed for roofing applications not subject to pedestrian or vehicular traffic.
- Available in summer and winter grade.
- Available in white or light gray.
- Supplied in resealable drums with locking rings.