Stargate Observatory Reroofing - Plan of Action

Here's the plan, as it stands, for improving the roof on Stargate Observatory. It's a full moon weekend, so the perfect time to work on the observatory. We are going to fix Stargate's roof once and for all so we can put our 12.5" telescope back into full action. Work will begin at approximately 12 noon daily.

Steps:

• having the dome lifted with a crane


• removing all the shingles and the top boards


• adding 2x6s to raise the dome a bit higher


• adding flat boards at a steeper angle to help water roll off more easily


• reshingling


• replacing the dome

Proposed schedule:
July 3 we will be removing the dome and starting tearoff work.
July 4 we will begin to add the new supports and replace the sheathing.
July 5 we will complete the shingling and hopefully replace the dome.
Of course, we'll get as much done as we can each day.

Equipment needed:

• extension cords


• shingle rippers


• belt/disc sanders


• etc.

We have a portable table saw, cordless circular saw and sawzall, cordless and corded power drills, various hand tools, etc. Suffice it to say that it will be better to have extra tools than to have to go and retrieve/buy more tools.

There have also been rumors that a grill or two may be fired up for sustenance, but we'll figure that out later.

Obviously, this is not primarily a recreational event, but if you have experience doing roofing work (or just a desire to help), we would love to have your assistance. Right now, three members are signed up for the work - the more volunteers, the quicker, more enjoyable, and more successful it is likely to be.

Help of any kind is appreciated, whether you can bring tools, snacks, or just yourself. But PLEASE RSVP so we can make sure everybody is present, so you don't have to stand around waiting.

Currently, the dome sits on a flat roof:

The flat part collects a lot of water, which means leaks:


(The drawing is not to scale - the flat part isn't quite so large in reality.)

The plan is to remove the shingles and the flat board, then add 2x6s to the 2x12s which will raise the dome 5.5 inches.





We will then add the sheathing on top of the new 2x6s, which will help water stream off.


Here are some additional angles on the existing structure:



In the end, the new roof will look something like this:


Once the structural changes are complete, we will add new white shingles.