During a full concrete restoration, Century Plaza Condo partnered with RHI Roofing to install a durable GAF modified bitumen roof system.
In the heart of Pompano Beach, Florida, just blocks from the Atlantic Ocean, stands Century Plaza—an occupied, 170-foot-tall residential condominium. With its prominent location, high-rise construction, and oceanfront exposure, the building posed no shortage of logistical and technical complexities for the reroofing team. But in July 2025, after six months of careful planning, precise execution, and seamless collaboration with multiple trades, RHI Roofing successfully delivered a high-performance asphalt roofing system that brought long-term protection and peace of mind to the property’s residents.
This commercial re-roofing project is a standout example of how coordination, innovation, and materials expertise can transform a worn-out roof system into a durable, low-maintenance, and aesthetically distinctive asset.
Project Background
Century Plaza had a failing coal tar pitch and gravel roof system—an aging BUR assembly that had long surpassed its serviceable life. Over the years, escalating repair needs, water intrusion, and structural concerns prompted the HOA and consultant team at O&S Engineers & Architects to specify a full system replacement. RHI Roofing was recommended by the HOA, having previously completed maintenance and emergency repair work at the property.
The building’s 24,337-square-foot roof spans four distinct sections, including three elevated pop-ups. Due to the structure’s height, limited ground staging area, and concurrent restoration work, the project required advanced planning, phased execution, and strict attention to detail from start to finish.
Why Modified Asphalt Was Chosen
Among a wide range of roofing materials on the market, modified bitumen was selected for this project due to its reliability, proven performance in South Florida’s heat and humidity, and superior aesthetics. GAF’s torch-applied multi-ply modified asphalt roof system offered excellent waterproofing, UV resistance, and long-term dimensional stability—key factors for a high-rise near the ocean.
In addition to performance, appearance played a critical role. With a highly visible roofline viewed from adjacent towers and balconies, the building owners wanted a system that not only performed, but looked clean and uniform. The granulated cap sheet provided a crisp, professional finish that will maintain its visual appeal for years.
System Overview
The new system included:
- Vapor Barrier: GAF Ruberoid HW torch-applied over Matrix 307 asphalt primer
- Insulation: 1/8” tapered polyiso adhered with OlyBond 500
- Cover Board: ¼” DensDeck Prime, also adhered with OlyBond 500 ribbons
- Membranes: Torch-applied GAF Ruberoid Smooth (interply) and GAF Ruberoid Granule (cap sheet)
- Edge Metal & Flashings: Stainless steel coping and cleats, two-piece reglet flashings
- Drainage Upgrades: Overflow scuppers and slope correction with cementitious buildup
The result: an R-14 energy-efficient assembly with a 20-Year NDL warranty.
Project Challenges & Innovations
One of the most significant constraints was logistics. The property had minimal ground space for staging or crane operation due to concurrent concrete restoration work and occupied parking areas. RHI Roofing implemented a rooftop hoist-style crane—strategically mounted on the building’s roof—to raise materials and remove debris without disrupting resident access or concrete contractor CTC’s operations.
Another challenge was coordination. Multiple subcontractors, including electricians, plumbers, painters, and engineers, were all working on the roof at the same time. RHI developed a phased construction plan that included temporary membrane installation to allow real-time structural inspections of the concrete deck and parapet walls. This “open and close” method allowed engineers to review conditions and complete repairs with minimal delay.
The project also required complex wall detailing. Because of the roof’s height and history of additions, RHI encountered dozens of unique flashing conditions—many requiring field-modified substrate prep or creative counterflashing assemblies to meet GAF’s warranty specs. In one area, a parapet wall had to be rebuilt using DensDeck to ensure proper termination.
Safety and Quality Assurance
Working at heights of 170 feet meant safety was non-negotiable. RHI Roofing used a combination of passive protection (via parapet walls), certified anchor points, and personal fall arrest systems. All tools used near the edge were tethered. Daily safety briefings and site inspections ensured compliance with OSHA standards and company best practices.
Every crew member was trained in torch application techniques, fall protection, and jobsite safety. Despite the scale and complexity, the project recorded zero safety incidents.
Long-Term Benefits for the Owner
The new roof system provides a clean aesthetic, energy efficiency, and low maintenance. The tapered insulation system, combined with precision slope corrections, eliminates ponding water—a major issue on the previous roof. The white granulated surface also reflects sunlight, helping reduce thermal load on the building’s mechanical systems.
Thanks to the multi-ply modified bitumen assembly and enhanced waterproofing details, the building is now protected by a 20-Year No Dollar Limit (NDL) warranty from GAF. This level of protection offers peace of mind to the HOA and residents, knowing their investment is covered.
The Value of Contractor-Led Coordination
Perhaps the most noteworthy success of the Century Plaza project was the level of coordination achieved between all parties. Roofing, concrete, mechanical, electrical, and painting contractors all operated simultaneously, sharing elevators, staging areas, and access routes. RHI Roofing’s early mobilization, proactive communication, and adaptive phasing ensured there were no scheduling conflicts or costly delays.
“This was a logistical puzzle,” said Tyler Eberly, Project Manager for RHI. “But we put the pieces together by staying ahead of the schedule and communicating constantly with every trade on site. It’s what made the difference.”
Final Thoughts & Conclusion
The Century Plaza reroof is a case study in collaborative construction, creative logistics, and material excellence. By selecting a robust GAF modified bitumen system and working in tandem with multiple trades, RHI Roofing delivered a watertight, architecturally clean, and future-proof solution.
In an era where rooftop coordination is becoming more complex and expectations are higher than ever, Century Plaza stands as a reminder: great roofs don’t just protect buildings—they protect reputations, relationships, and the people inside.