Amherst, N.Y.-based Birdair Inc. — a specialty contractor for lightweight, long-span roofing
systems and custom tensile architecture applications — has designed, engineered and installed a
tensioned membrane roofing system on the Aquarium of the Pacific — the largest aquarium in
Southern California and the fourth-largest in the nation. Birdair served as sub-contractor for the
roofing project, which was part of the aquarium’s 2008 expansion that included building a new
classroom and outdoor exhibition area.
The canopy is made of an approximately 2,018-square-foot polyvinyl chloride (PVC) fabric
membrane installed as a linked Quasar Modular Unit System. According to Birdair, the flexible,
fire-resistant PVC fabric reduces radiant heat gain, can be infused with ultraviolet light
inhibitors and anti-soiling fungicides, requires little maintenance and maintains a long life. The
company also provided pre-drilled electrical access and custom plates to attach solar panels to the
membrane’s exterior.
The Aquarium of the Pacific has achieved Platinum certification from the U.S. Green Building
Council’s Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED®). The facility’s environmentally
friendly benefits include energy savings, water efficiency, carbon dioxide emissions reduction and
improved indoor air quality.
March 2, 2010
