Michael Gibb, Gowling and Gibb Architects, designed the main clubhouse for the upscale Country Club of the Hamptons, in Calgary, Alberta, Canada. He was challenged to design a roof that was unique and maintenance free. The building’s signature design feature was a curved quarter-dome roof section over the entry of the building. For the design to work, the product chosen would have to be aesthetically pleasing, malleable, durable, and require little to no maintenance.

Located in the foothills of the Sierras, in an area known as “Hail Alley,” the effects of the freeze/thaw cycle and hail had to be considered. Having past and proven experience with DECRA stone-coated steel roofing, Gibb chose DECRA Tile in Teak. Steel is a durable product, unlike wood or asphalt shingles, products made from steel do not expand and contract during cold to hot climate changes. Additionally, DECRA products have been UL tested and maintain the highest rating for impact resistance, Class 4.

Tackling the design requirements was the next hurdle. Models and mock-ups were developed with the help of the roofing contractor. While durable, steel is also a malleable substrate which allowed Gibb to specify the product for the quarter-dome design. Gibb was confident that the DECRA system would do justice to the unique architectural design and provide a maintenance free roof – not to mention curb appeal for guests and members.