The Kent State University Airport Hangar, originally built in 1945, is a key facility in Ohio’s aviation community and serves as a cornerstone for Kent State’s renowned Aeronautics program. With nearly 80 years of service, this historic hangar needed critical upgrades to ensure it continues to support aviation education for decades to come.
Warren Roofing® is proud to be part of the ongoing renovation efforts at the Kent State University Airport Hangar. The project includes vital roof replacements, structural repairs, corrosion protection, and enhanced weatherproofing to extend the building’s lifespan. Additionally, new hangar doors, flooring upgrades, and electrical improvements will ensure the hangar remains fully operational and safe for years to come.
Built in 1945 and purchased as an Army surplus Quonset building, the community hangar at KSU has seen decades of service and undergone various repairs over the years. However, key elements, including the hangar doors, roof, and structural components, had exceeded their useful life. This project is vital to ensuring the hangar remains structurally sound and weather-resistant, meeting the needs of both the Aeronautics program and the local aviation community.
Warren Roofing® is providing full roofing system replacements, along with corrosion protection treatments to ensure the hangar is weatherproof and structurally stable. This work is part of a larger renovation project aimed at modernizing the facility while preserving its function and significance.
Warren Roofing successfully completed a complex single-ply recover of a metal barrel roof using specialized access methods and precise installation techniques tailored to the curved structure. The project required thoughtful planning and coordination to ensure both safety and performance while minimizing disruption to surrounding operations.
Installation Process
Scaffolding was first erected along the base of the barrel roof to establish safe access for crew movement and material handling. Because the existing structure featured stepped segments, we installed tapered insulation at each transition point to create a smooth, continuous surface across the entire roof. This step was critical for proper drainage and long-term membrane performance.
Next, anchor points were installed along the ridge of the barrel, allowing our crew to safely rappel down the curved slopes using rope-access techniques. This method provided secure, hands-free mobility for installers, reduced the need for excessive equipment on the roof, and enabled a controlled, methodical installation of the single-ply membrane—all with minimal disruption to nearby activities.
This project highlighted our ability to adapt conventional roofing practices to a highly specialized structure, delivering a watertight system on schedule with a strong emphasis on crew safety and technical precision.
These critical upgrades will extend the life of the Kent State University Airport Hangar for at least 20 years, ensuring it continues to serve as a key asset for both the university and the local aviation community. Once complete, the hangar will be better equipped to support Kent State’s exceptional Aeronautics program and contribute to Ohio’s aviation industry.
