Elevar Design Group - Building Enclosure

building enclosure overview

Our unique blend of project experience and expert personnel allows us to offer a wide range of services and solutions for roofing and building enclosure issues. Our project management skills and roof typology experience stands out in the industry. We understand that identifying problems for clients requires a comprehensive understanding of how a building structure was originally designed to perform combined with historical information about alterations and repairs that have been made through the years. Our solutions are based on our understanding of the building dynamics, and combining traditional detailing with current technology. Our solutions are well developed and long-lasting. Our extensive experience of working with a variety of building types provides us with to skills needed to offer effective and appropriate solutions for building enclosures.

our story

elevate (ˈeləˌvāt) verb

to raise or lift to a more important or impressive level.

At Elevar, we are elevating the game. Our growth is derived from diversity of thought, pragmatism and a keen business sense. We pride ourselves on seeing what others cannot. Our creativity is generated through an applied curiosity and a celebration of people. Our success is measured in our client’s terms: increased performance, improved outcomes and spaces that enliven the spirit.

We chose the name ‘elevar’, the Spanish word for elevate, because we believe it encompasses our core values of: Mastery, Experience, Teamwork, Creativity, Commitment, and Integrity.

These six values were born out of a 50+ year history of high-quality performance and service to our community. Elevar responds promptly and efficiently to client needs with quality services and innovative, practical design solutions.

We appreciate the folks with whom we work want a greater value for the investments they make – this spirit transcends market and client type. In response we continuously strive to deliver the best solutions: timeless design that is responsive to change with optimal performance for cost.

Elevar has grown from humble beginnings into a staff of more than 80 employees. This growth occurred organically as Elevar continued to design in new markets and build relationships with new clients. We attribute our continued success to our personal commitment and professional abilities.

services

aerial photography

Drones can be used for several applications such as surveying existing site conditions, capturing building construction progress, and 3D modeling of structures and topography. Elevar also uses aerial photography for building inspections. Drones are especially useful when traditional access to the building or roof is limited.

Our in-house FAA certified drone pilot has experience performing aerial surveys of structures under various conditions. Elevar operates a DJI Mavic 2 Enterprise Dual drone which combines high resolution photography with infrared technology. This equipment allows our team to work with clients to locate areas of the building enclosure that may be allowing uncontrolled movement of air, water, or water vapor - all of which can lead to building deterioration and energy loss.

thermal imaging

A thermally efficient building enclosure equates to controlled comfort and reduced utility costs for facility owners. Our team of accredited and certified professionals uses thermal imaging technology to determine the efficiency of a building. Thermal imaging with infrared cameras is typically used to detect differences in temperature which may indicate air infiltration, water penetration, or uncontrolled water vapor migration. Any of these can contribute to energy loss. With our experience and technology, we can often determine problems inside a wall or roof without cutting or damaging the building.

Elevar uses two different handheld thermography cameras to capture images of heat and energy loss. The FLIR MR camera uses moisture probes in conjunction with thermal imaging to ensure accurate measurements. The FLIR BC camera allows for a wider view of the object or building. This equipment, combined with our expertise in analyzing building enclosures, gives our team an edge, allowing us to thoroughly diagnose issues without full forensic investigation.

key players

Elevar Design Group is one of the fastest growing firms in our region. Our staff is a blend of senior designers and technical leaders teamed with the best young talent in the market. In recognition of our architectural heritage, we pair ‘master’ and ‘apprentice’ together to expand shared knowledge and grow abilities. This organization fosters community and accountability.

Because our staff is dedicated to building relationships and championing one another’s success, our firm feels less like a corporation and more like a family. We have found that creatives who seek greater meaning in work find their way to Elevar and, perhaps because of this, we are proud to have very little staff turnover. The tenure of our staff members allows us to focus, learn, and innovate - generating tremendous value for our clients.

Our culture is grown from a fabric of relationships stitched by personal and professional experiences. By hiring the best and the brightest, we have fostered a talented and enthusiastic staff whose commitment to quality carries over into all client relationships.

design partners from the beginning.

Tom Fernandez CEO

As the CEO of Elevar Design Group, Tom Fernandez is responsible for the overall vision and innovation of the firm. He facilitates design direction and ensures that his staff is equipped to provide the best solutions to clients. Since assuming executive leadership of the firm in the late 1980s, Tom has been instrumental in growing the staff into the multi-disciplined team of specialized designers it is today.

Kim Patton President

Kim Patton serves as President of Elevar Design Group, guiding the design staff in daily operations and profitability. Kim’s energy and innovation have been the key to his successful career which has spanned nearly 30 years in many different markets. An Architect by trade, his vast experience has influenced his ability to grow Elevar’s staff and to provide clients with costeffective and creative solutions.

Tony Lozier

Senior Vice President, Engineering

Tony Lozier has more than 43 years of experience in MEP Engineering. As Principal of Elevar’s MEP team, he directs all engineering services and ensures the highest quality results for clients. His widespread experience has served as an asset to many of Elevar’s projects, as Tony has the ability to lead the engineering team toward the best solutions for all client projects.

Dan Montgomery Senior Architect

Mr. Montgomery, who has more than 30 years experience in architecture and building enclosure design, is one of only approximately 800 RRC’s in the country. He is also a Registered Roof Observer, Registered Waterproofing Consultant, Registered Exterior Wall Consultant, and Registered Building Envelope Consultant, one of only 41 in the country. Having attained these certifications, Mr. Montgomery is rare in the field - standing out as a unique expert advisor on roofing and building enclosure.

Kristina Hamill

Senior Architect

Ms. Hamill is a Registered Architect and Registered Roof Observer with more than 15 years of experience. Her responsibilities include specification writing, construction document creation, construction observation and documentation, project submittal review, and scheduling. She has worked on roofing projects for a number of clients spanning across all market sectors.

David Roman Drone Documentation

Mr. Roman provides architectural support and surveying assistance as a member of the Building Enclosure team. Mr. Roman’s experience includes roof drawings and specifications for a variety of projects in the education, retail, and government fields. As a Certified Drone Pilot, Mr. Roman captures aerial photography for surveying site conditions, capturing building construction progress, and 3D modeling of structures and topography.

US Environmental Protection Agency Roof Replacement

Elevar performed a roof replacement at Andrew W. Breidenbach Environmental Research Center (AWBERC) in Cincinnati. This project was completed in a secure, occupied and functioning laboratory building, so work was done on weekends and second shift so as not to disrupt research operations in the top floor vivarium. An additional challenge of this project was the government shut-down that occurred during our project, which affected the schedule and caused delays.

Demolition and installation of the new roof system was phased. Fleece backed EPDM membrane was installed over a vented insulation and lightweight concrete system. The roof is one of first tray systems in the city of Cincinnati, and was installed as a series of 2x4 trays which can be easily adjusted to allow routine maintenance. Over 50% of the flat roof is covered with a 4” deep roof system, which is planted with hardy sedums, achieving maturity after two years. After the initial watering period, the plants survive with rain water alone.

Vontz Center for Molecular Studies

Cincinnati, OH

The Vontz Center for Molecular Studies, designed by acclaimed architect Frank Gehry, entered service on the University of Cincinnati’s East Medical Campus in 1999. This building is home to UC’s cancer biology, hematology and oncology, microscopy, and proteomics labs. The iconic free-form design was executed, in this instance, using three dimensionally curved, prefabricated brick masonry walls and roofs in lieu of the typically polished metal claddings utilized to a greater extent on other Gehry projects of this period. As this structure was nearing twenty years of service, it began to require both periodic maintenance and wall, window, parapet and roofing upgrades to the unique building envelope. Recurrent and systemic water infiltration issues with projecting curtainwalls, sky-sloping masonry panels and a roofing system nearing the end of its service life were beginning to require attention.

The entire multi-phase project includes the major renovation of all the building enclosure systems while the building remained occupied. Systems included roofing, copings, skylights, exterior curtain walls, unit masonry, and site wall and stair repairs. The roofing scope included complete replacement of the single-ply, paver-ballasted roof with a new high-performance modified bitumen roof system and included replacement of the extensive, oversize metal coping system.

The curtain wall replacement required temporary weather protection to allow the research labs to function during construction operations. Selected curtain walls were replaced while others were tested for water infiltration as per AAMA standards and were rebuilt with new glazing and seals. The masonry scope of work included miscellaneous repointing throughout and the application of masonry water repellent. Additional masonry remediation was required to maintain continuity of the exterior air / water barrier. Sealants between adjacent materials were replaced.

Miami University Replacement Roof Contract Oxford, OH

Miami University is the second oldest public University in the United States. Founded in 1809, the campus is renowned for its beauty. Having been called “the most beautiful campus there ever was” by poet Robert Frost, the buildings on this campus are typically Georgian Revival architecture. Home to many historic landmarks and the “Cradle of Coaches,” it is one of the original eight Public Ivy schools in the country.

Elevar has held the ongoing Miami Summer Roof Replacement Projects contract since 2013, resulting in the development of a trusting relationship with Miami representatives and Project Manager, Dan Montgomery. Dan’s acquired knowledge of roofing and building enclosure issues encountered during our tenure at the campus has helped the Elevar project team structure the design and implementation process to avoid any setbacks. We were awarded the 2022/2023 contract, our seventh consecutive contract with the University for roof replacement and repair and building enclosure issues.

Mt. Airy Water Tower Assessment Cincinnati, OH

The Mt. Airy Water Towers were constructed in 1926-27 on the highest point within the city limits. The facility’s 14 towers had a combined capacity of 8.5 million gallons. The brick edifices rise seven stories above Colerain Avenue and North Bend Road. At 961.5 feet above sea level, the water tower is the highest spot within Cincinnati’s city limits.

Over the past century, the facility has fallen into disrepair. The storage tank structure, constructed primarily of plate steel, concrete, and brick and mortar, has received limited repairs over its history. The facility is currently in need of a major rehabilitation to maintain its serviceable life. In 2014, Elevar worked with Hazen and Sawyer on an assessment of the historic Mt. Airy Water Tower.

While assessing the condition of the tanks’ potential repair options, it was important to be familiar with the materials and methods used in the original construction. Our team played close attention to structural foundation and earthwork - evaluating soils, grading, and any known foundation issues. We looked closely at the tanks and stair tower, giving careful consideration to the design and construction of the tanks themselves since they are the key functional and architectural element of the project.

Amanda Clearcreek School Roof Replacement Cincinnati, OH

Elevar provided architectural services to remove the existing roofing and provide new roofing at the school district’s two school buildings, a K-2 facility and a 3-12 facility. Both school buildings are designed with steep slope, gabled roofs and have experienced wind damage over the years in the form of shingles blowing off the roof. As part of the Design-Build process, existing asphalt shingles and underlayment were removed. The existing vented nailbase was retained. New single ply PVC roofing with simulated ribs was specified as was new metal gutters, downspouts, copings, fascia, and other miscellaneous trim.

Several planned phases included:

• Assessment and selection of preferred roof system.

• Production of GMP drawings and specifications.

• Review discussions with the building owner and contractor.

• Final GMP pricing.

West Chester Safety Roof Replacement

West Chester, OH

The City Safety Building is a 180,000 SF metal building that houses the City’s police department, municipal courts and offices, mechanic shops, building department, city offices and maintenance department. The building’s metal roof had leaked from the time it was constructed.

The first step in designing a solution to solve the roof leaks was to reinforce the structure and to bring the load carrying capacity up to current building code. Since a large portion of the building’s roof structure was above finished ceilings and occupied areas the structure reinforcement had to be designed and fabricated in sections and assembled once above the ceiling.

City Hall Roof Restoration Cincinnati, OH

The renovation of City Hall involved complete A/E services for comprehensive roof, exterior analysis and master planning for repair of the facility. The project included removal of existing roof and underlayment, replacement of wood decking and supports, and installation of a new roof system for this registered historic landmark.

Our team researched the original 18th century construction documents to provide design recommendations for the restoration. Using original specifications and period photographs, the exterior was restored after more than a century of weathering, damage and alterations. Tiles from the original manufacturer were installed over a modern substrate to provide a 75-year roof.

Masonry was restored, re-pointed, and weatherproofed where necessary. Weathered cast iron was replaced and galvanized finials and gating were installed after more than a 50-year absence to allow a return to the original design intent. In addition, we created working drawings for repair and replacement of the existing tower windows.

This Project received a Preservation Award from the Cincinnati Preservation Association for an outstanding contribution to Historic Preservation in Greater Cincinnati

Alms Building Cincinnati, OH

Elevar worked closely with the building owner to develop a comprehensive yet practical plan to make repairs to this 94year old, 11-story masonry building. The process included several planned phases including: initial budgetary cost estimates based on initial observations and overall scale, field investigation of the masonry façade using swing stage lifts and multiple drops along the building façade to inspect conditions up close, and a written report of findings, assessment,

recommendations and priorities. This report also included annotated build elevations and photographs to communicate the conditions. We also worked with the building owner to develop a scope of repairs that factored construction cost budgets, and priorities to develop pragmatic solutions that were viable given the age, condition, use and occupancy of the building.

Blackwell Inn and Conference Center North Facade Restoration Columbus, OH

The north façade restoration was the second phase of the building façade restoration. The project included a comprehensive restoration of the brick and stone masonry along the entire north facade. The restoration included a complete removal and replacement of the brick on the lower three levels of the building in order to install new ledge angles, lintels, veneer anchors, weather-resistive barrier, flashing and weeps.

On upper areas of the wall, field investigations were performed to determine existing supports and anchorage of the masonry

and to determine pathways for air and water intrusion into the building. Strategic repair areas were identified along ledge angles and lintels to be reconstructed. Parapets were repaired, new copper cap flashings installed, and stone copings reset.

The team developed an assessment of the conditions, found the sources of the problems, and developed a priority-based approach to façade restoration. The repair documents included drawings of building elevation repair areas, wall sections, details, and material specifications.

Summit Behavioral Healthcare Building 10 Replacement

OH

Summit Behavioral Center is a 280-unit residential and treatment facility owned by the Ohio Department of Mental Health in Cincinnati. For a decade-long period of time, our team a multi-phased study and master plan that strategically consolidated the original 98-acre site down to an efficient 40-acre site that has numerous life cycle cost considerations without lowering the capacity of the center. The existing metal roof was a prefinished overlay aluminum roof over a layer of 143lb asphalt felt impregnated paper over plywood over insulation over a metal roof deck. The existing metal roof system had several areas where water was entering the building, most of which occurred along gutter lines of the building.

Our team was contracted to perform a forensic investigation to determine causes of the water infiltration. The metal roof panels were removed to reveal the underlayment had disintegrated, leaving wood exposed below the metal panel. High temperature ice and water shield was installed over the existing plywood deck. Part of the failure of the existing system was the adhesion of the underlayment to the metal panels themselves. The added slip sheet prevents this from happening.

In 2017, we were again hired by ODMH for the roof replacement of Building 10, which had reached the end of its useful life. The scope of work for the Building 10 roof replacement included a complete tear-off and replacement of the roof, cleaning of existing stone façade, and exterior evaluations.

University of Cincinnati Turner Hall Window Replacement Cincinnati, OH

Turner Hall on University of Cincinnati’s West Campus is an 18- year old residence hall that houses 419 students and the Bearcats Wellness Living Learning Community. The building was showing signs of water infiltration at the windows and masonry façade. After a thorough assessment, our team served as the architectural partner for this design build project which replaced 441 windows and replaced window flashings. The project was completed over the summer on a fast track schedule so as not to disturb the students or staff.

University of Cincinnati Logan Hall Roof Replacement Cincinnati, OH

Logan Hall is home to the University of Cincinnati’s Central Behavioral Health Clinic. Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, Logan Hall provides clinical counseling, assessments, testing, therapies, and case management are provided here for all patients.

Elevar was hired to replace an approximately 20-year old stone ballasted, single-ply, EPDM membrane roof with a new single ply membrane roof.

Replacement of all flashings, counter flashings and drains were included as part of this project. New flashings were installed at an elevation that allows for additional insulation to meet energy code requirements. Replacement of the low roof section of the building was coordinated with a proposed window replacement project to allow for adequate flashing height at the clerestory windows of the roof monitor.

“What has always impressed me about working with Elevar is their ability to deliver any project seamlessly at a facility that is fully operable at all hours of the day. In addition to being sensitive to our operations, Elevar does a superb job of forecasting expenditures and presenting alternatives.”

- Chief Operating Officer Summit Behavioral Healthcare

partners from the beginning.