Renovating the Space Needle
Accommodating 1.3 million tourists each year at the Space Needle, architects chose to preserve and renovate the observation deck by waterproofing with a Siplast® liquid-applied system.
A world-icon gets a makeover
The Century Project at the Space Needle had a visionary goal of expanding the scenic views of Seattle. Initially built in 1962, the renovation designs started in 2013 and aimed to leverage the technology of today with floor-to-ceiling, frameless glass panes and canted glass benches.
With the innovative glass upgrades, the observation deck actually doubled in size, and designers turned to Siplast® for an innovative waterproofing solution.
Fast-curing, and ready for tourists
The two basic necessities of the waterproofing solution were for it to be suitable for a pedestrian, occupied space, and remain open during normal hours. The answer was clearly Siplast® Terapro Waterproofing System with a Pro Fleece reinforcement.
The high foot traffic of the observation deck required durable surfacing, and the quartz aggregate broadcast into the wearing layer provided a skid-resistant surface. The quick-cure PMMA resin made scheduling around Seattle’s rainy climate possible and allowed daily visitors without interruption.
Facts:
- 29 squares of waterproofing materials for the observation deck that is 500 feet above ground
- Terapro Waterproofing System comprised of PMMA resin and polyester fleece fabric reinforcement was used to build up a high mil thickness application resistant to UV, foot traffic, and common environmental contaminants