Lockman tile roof gets an overhaul

By Shelby Horton

The makeover for Lockman Hall has extended to its weathered, clay tile roof.

On Jan. 12, Wray and Sons Roofing Co. began the roofing project.

It was built in 1938, which makes the tile on the roof 78 years old. The tiles display a range of fall colors, in shades of red, orange and brown, with patches of green lichens.

Most of the heavy tile can be re-used. Some are being replaced with tile imported from South America.

The roof on the south end of the building is being reconditioned, while other sections will be done later.

Work began on top of the old auditorium, which has had some moisture seeping through.

The project will cost about $40,900, including some additional repairs to the structure.

“Moisture was the main concern, since it prevents renovations from being done on the inside of the auditorium,” said Don Rose, facilities director.

Clay tile weighs 10 pounds per square foot, making this labor-intensive work, but the project is scheduled to be completed by late February.

Mac Harris, foreman for Wray and Sons Roofing, explained the process.

There is a 1938-vintage concrete deck underneath the old tile, along with a tar paper moisture barrier that was leaking, he said.

The tile was lifted and stacked and the paper replaced with a thick, black, waterproof membrane.

Each tile is secured with wood screws.

“Tile really doesn’t deteriorate and is very elastic,” Harris said, “It does a great job of holding up against water.”

The tile can withstand large hail, freezing and being carefully walked on, the foreman said.

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