Protecting Purpose: A Roof Built for the HABCenter’s Mission
RHI Roofing helps a vital nonprofit continue its mission with a reliable GAF TPO roof system
When the HABCenter of Boca Raton—a nonprofit founded in 1978 serving adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities—needed a roof replacement, they turned to RHI Roofing to lead the project with care, quality, and commitment. The resulting reroofing project not only met their budget and scheduling needs but also provided lasting protection to a facility that serves one of Florida’s most impactful missions.
The commercial reroofing project, located at 22313 Boca Rio Road, was completed between December 2024 and February 2025. Managed by Project Manager David Panella and Superintendent Tyler Eberly, RHI Roofing’s crew worked diligently throughout the holiday season to minimize disruption to the center’s programs while installing a high-performance GAF TPO roofing system across three roof sections totaling approximately 17,000 square feet.
A Mission-Critical Facility
HABCenter offers a full-time day program that includes job training, behavioral health services, and educational programs specifically designed for adults with lifelong disabilities. The facility’s condition is essential not only for operational efficiency but also for the safety and comfort of staff and clients.
The existing roof—comprising aging BUR and Mod Bit systems over steel decking—had deteriorated significantly, with multiple active leaks and outdated mechanical and electrical infrastructure. After years of temporary repairs and escalating maintenance costs, the HABCenter secured state grant funding for a complete replacement.
Custom Roofing Solution with GAF TPO
RHI Roofing developed a cost-sensitive, high-performance solution using GAF 60 Mil TPO membrane over new polyiso insulation. Two roof sections were installed using fleece-back TPO directly over existing lightweight insulating concrete (LWIC), while a third section used bare-back TPO over new 2” polyiso insulation, mechanically attached through to the steel deck. All factory-molded accessories were incorporated to support a full edge-to-edge 20-year NDL warranty.
To ensure a seamless outcome, RHI coordinated closely with mechanical and electrical subcontractors from the initial bid phase. This eliminated scope gaps and ensured compliance with Florida’s evolving code standards for rooftop equipment and penetrations. The team also fabricated and installed ES-1-rated TPO-clad metal edge details, new aluminum hurricane-rated AC stands, and seamless gutters and downspouts.
Challenges and Ingenuity
Executing a reroof on an occupied building presented unique challenges. Many interior spaces lacked ceiling barriers, which increased noise transmission from the roof deck during work. Sensitive occupants and visitors required extra care around odors and dust. RHI mitigated these concerns by using carbon-filtered AC protection, windscreen barriers, and alternative substrate preparation methods to control dust.
Complexities also arose from decades of facility additions. Unique flashing transitions required field modifications, including the reconstruction of one wall with Densedeck to ensure a clean termination that met manufacturer specifications.
RHI’s safety program played a central role in the project’s success. With zero parapet walls and multiple roof levels, the team implemented a combination of temporary rails, warning lines, and mobile raptor carts to ensure safety. Daily inspections by the company’s safety director ensured strict adherence to OSHA standards.
Long-Term Benefits for the HABCenter
The new TPO roof not only stops active leaks and reduces service calls—it’s expected to enhance energy efficiency with its white reflective surface and well-insulated assembly. Minimal maintenance requirements and long-term warranty coverage make the system a cost-effective investment for the nonprofit.
“The HABCenter serves a truly special community,” said David Panella. “It was an honor to work alongside their team and deliver a project that contributes to their mission. Every detail mattered—not just from a technical perspective, but from a human one.”
The project was completed on time and within budget, with only minor scope enhancements requested by the client for gutter sizing. According to RHI, the most rewarding aspect was seeing the positive impact of their work on the center’s workforce and day-to-day operations.