Client:

U.S. Army Mission and Installation Contracting Command (MICC)
Contract #W91QV1-21-C-0089 – Roof Cleaning and Leak Investigation for Building 6500, Fort George G. Meade, MD

Project Overview:

Emmaty, Inc. conducted a comprehensive roof condition assessment for the Defense Information School (Building 6500) at Fort George G. Meade, MD. The evaluation included visual inspections, infrared thermography, electronic impedance testing, and leak investigation to determine the condition of the existing roofs and provide repair/replacement recommendations. The assessment covered both the original building (constructed ~1998, 125,000 SF roof) and a newer addition (41,500 SF roof).

Key Scope Highlights:

• Original Roof (Sections A, B, C – Modified Bitumen, ~125,000 SF):

  -Visual inspections revealed worn membranes, loss of granules, compromised flashing, and deteriorated pitch pockets.

  -IR and EI testing showed minimal trapped moisture, indicating leaks had not caused significant insulation damage.

  -Recommendation: Install a 2-ply modified bitumen overlay instead of a full tear-off, preserving insulation and avoiding higher R-value compliance costs.

• Addition Roof (Sections D, E, F – PVC, ~41,500 SF):

  -Roofs were recently installed and in good condition, requiring no major repairs.

  -Minor leaks in Section D (loading dock) likely due to wall/window water infiltration rather than roof deficiencies.

  -Recommendation: No repairs, continued monitoring.

• Testing Methods:

  -Infrared Thermography to identify wet insulation.

  -Electronic Impedance testing under grated areas and near anomalies.

  -Over 330 EI readings taken, with four anomalies identified for further evaluation.

Achievements:

• Successfully performed non-destructive testing (IR and EI) that confirmed minimal moisture infiltration, protecting government assets.

• Delivered clear, cost-effective recommendations to avoid unnecessary full replacement, emphasizing an overlay system with a 20-year warranty.

• Identified wall/window deficiencies contributing to leaks, demonstrating comprehensive problem-solving beyond just roof systems.

Challenges Addressed

• Determined roof condition despite lack of installation records and uncertain warranty history for the original roof.

• Distinguished between roof membrane failures and external water infiltration from walls/windows.

• Balanced cost, compliance, and material availability during a time of global insulation shortages.

• Ensured findings were actionable by combining visual evidence, thermal imaging, and impedance testing results.

   

Keywords

Roof Assessment, Infrared Thermography, Electronic Impedance, Modified Bitumen Overlay, PVC Roofing, Fort Meade, Building 6500, Defense Information School, U.S. Army MICC, Leak Investigation, Flashing Failure, Roof Granule Loss, 20-Year Warranty, Emmaty Inc.