A Lesson in Reroofing the Great River Children’s Museum

Accessibility, imagination, and education define the Great River Children’s Museum (GRCM), which opened in June 2025 as Minnesota’s second-largest children’s museum. The 31,000-square-foot facility, housed in a renovated 100-year-old bank, features eight permanent exhibits including a three-story atrium simulating clouds and weather designed to spark creativity and learning through play.

 

GLT Architects led the design, and BCI Construction managed the build. McDowall Company, a Carlisle SynTec Systems Authorized Applicator with over 130 years of experience, handled the 17,000-square-foot roofing project. Known for excellence and innovation, McDowall was engaged early to ensure the roof complemented the building’s redesign and longevity.

 

The project included five roof areas across four levels, combining new construction and reroofing. Deck types varied from steel, wood, and structural concrete requiring tailored assemblies. The original ballasted EPDM system had aged, and sections were removed for the redesign.

 

McDowall recommended Carlisle’s 60-mil Sure-Seal Cool Gray EPDM membrane for its durability, ease of installation, and compatibility with multiple deck types. “We’ve worked with Carlisle for over 40 years and trust their products and support,” said Matt McDowall, company president.

 

 

Crews stripped each section to the deck, recycling old membrane and ballast to reduce landfill waste. Over the largest concrete deck (5,000 sq. ft.), they installed VapAir Seal 725TR Air and Vapor Barrier using CAV-GRIP III Adhesive, praised for its cold-weather performance.

 

Two layers of InsulBase Polyiso insulation and tapered insulation were adhered with Flexible FAST Adhesive. Heated spray rigs kept adhesive warm during late-fall installation, as temperatures dipped into the 20s. Design delays pushed roofing into winter, requiring careful handling of materials.

 

Several roof sections needed deck repairs after mechanical unit removal. Internal and overflow drains were replaced with new assemblies. The 10-foot-wide EPDM membrane was installed using CAV-GRIP III Adhesive, ensuring full coverage. Factory-Applied Tape simplified seaming, even in cold conditions, with heat guns aiding adhesion.

 

The tallest section (35 feet) housed extensive mechanical equipment and ductwork, requiring crews to work under tight spaces. Walkway pads were added for future maintenance. Another challenge was the roof over the “Climber to the Clouds” exhibit, which demanded integration with a smoke evacuation system and multiple penetrations.

 

Parapet walls (1–6 feet) were finished with membrane and coping caps for a uniform look. The center rooftop patio, about 35 × 75 feet, features artificial turf, 2,200 sq. ft. of porcelain pavers on pedestals, and colorful shade sails supported by steel frames.

 

“Between the different roof levels, rooftop equipment, and harsh weather, this project required true craftsmanship,” said McDowall. Despite challenges, the team delivered a durable, visually cohesive roofing system that supports the museum’s mission.

 

Thanks to McDowall Company and Carlisle SynTec Systems, St. Cloud now boasts a world-class museum where children can explore, learn, and play—protected by a roof built to last. For more information, please visit Carlisle SynTec Systems website. 

Design Team:
Applicator: McDowall Company

Product Specs:
» 60-mil Sure-Seal® EPDM Cool Gray membrane with Factory-Applied Tape™
» CAV-GRIP® III Adhesive

 

Photo credit:
Carlisle SynTec Systems