Objective
Remove and replace existing damaged skylight to bring in diffused natural daylight.
Background
The Blocker Building had a polycarbonate skylight system that required replacement after a hailstorm blew through the campus. The existing skylight became susceptible to damage as UV rays from sunlight degrade a thermoplastic polymers’ durability after several years of sun exposure. Degradation initially begins with cracking and crazing due to dissimilar materials expanding and contracting at different rates.
Solution
Installation of a 303’ L x 13’-4” W x 9’-7” H Kalcurve® fiber-reinforced polymer skylight system with a 0.18 U-factor and 4% light transmittance. Due to the low roofline, a low solar heat gain was important for the space below.
Result
The facility received an upgraded skylight system that transmits diffuse, comfortable daylight to the students and faculty socializing below while the University benefits from a reduction in the mechanical cooling loads.
PROJECT DETAILS
Project Type:
Daylighting
Manufacturer:
Kalwall
Product:
Kalcurve Skylight
Architect:
Goodwin Lasiter Strong
Client:
Texas A&M University
Location:
College Station, Texas
Photography:
Griesenbeck
Completion:
January 2020