Top Questions About Retractable Roofs Answered
Retractable roofs transform spaces by welcoming in fresh air and sunshine when the weather is pleasant, and sealing tightly during cold or rainy days. Designed as large, operable skylights with thermal breaks, they create stunning, naturally lit environments that can be enjoyed throughout every season, while also enhancing the way a space feels and is climate-controlled.
With various facilities looking for a competitive advantage it’s no suprise that owners are interested in learning more about retractable roofs. Here are some of the top questions we get asked, and the answers.
Can I Cover My Pool?
This is our most asked question and the answer is “Yes, you can cover an existing pool”. Just note that this requires the upgrading of mechanical pool equipment and possibly the refinishing of decks and pools.
Is a Retractable Skylight Double the Cost of a Fixed Skylight?
Whether you install a fixed or retractable skylight the size is the same. The difference is that for a retractable roof it also requires that tracks and motors are added. The incremental cost is about 10% The savings on energy bills for a non-aquatic facility is between 15% – 20% and for a aquatic facility 20% – 30%.
How Long Does it Take to Complete a Small Project?
A small project, for example, our Boston Pizza project which measured 27′ x 50′ and was a Telescope, glass skylight opening, the time from star to completion was 1 month.
How Long Does it Take to Complete a Small Project?
A great example of a large project is our Epic Waters Municipal Waterpark, which measured 162′ x 382′. For this project the ground breaking started in October 2015, and OpenAire started our build portion in December of 2016. The last Truss was installed on January 24, 2017 with the Public Opening happening almost a year later on January 12, 2018.
Can I Keep My Patio But Use it Year Round?
One of the benefits of a retractable roof is that when the weather is sunny and warm you can open the roof, and when things turn wet or cold you can close it. Gusto 101, a restaurant in Toronto wanted a solution that would allow second floor seating rain or shine, year round. Adding a retractable roof allows them to do just that.
Will I Lose My Best Views?
Of course not. In fact your best view will be enhanced and available year round. The Hyatt House in Jersey City faces Manhattan and has one primary view… the city skyline. The roof opens away from the river creating a panoramic view of the skyline.
My Venue is Aquatic, What About Corrosion and Mold?
During minor gas line maintenance at Zehenders Splash Village in Frankenmuth, Michigan, a hole in a wall led to the discovery of black mold. The existing glulam structure was in salvageble condition but all other surface needed replacement. We replaced the roof with a retractable rook and the walls with glass.
OpenAire designs feature maintenance-free, corrosion-resistant aluminum framing, and the ability to open the roof for ventilation, which helps prevent mold growth by reducing humidity and promoting air circulation.
Can I Make It Bigger Down the Road?
Yes. Epic Waters Waterpark (mentioned above) was designed to grow. Starting in 2024, the outdoor wave pool will become an indoor wave pool. The gable end will be removed and the building will be extended to cover the wave pool. And of course we will reinstall the gable to close the building off.