Glazing Restoration of Imperial Plaza

KEY INFORMATION & PROJECT DETAILS

KEY INFORMATION:

Project name: Glazing restoration - Remediation for leaky penthouse windows

Client: Imperial Plaza

Services Provided: Leak Investigation, Window Replacement, Historic Preservation

Challenge: Addressing Persistent Water Intrusion

Over time, Hawaii's tropical climate—characterized by intense UV exposure, high winds, and salty air—compromised the integrity of The Imperial Plaza's glazing system. Sealants and gaskets deteriorated, leading to persistent water intrusion, especially at the intersections of sloped and vertical glazing and adjoining concrete elements. These leaks not only disrupted residents but also raised concerns about potential structural damage and mold proliferation.

Talk to our experts

Darbi KRUMPOS

Principal

darbi.krumpos@socotec.us +1 206 467 0054

Eamonn KINSELLA

Regional Director, Building Envelope, Existing Buildings

eamonn.kinsella@socotec.us +1 808 535 4146

Solution: A Precision-Engineered Restoration

SOCOTEC, in collaboration with American Bucher JV Glass (ABJV), devised a comprehensive plan to restore The Imperial Plaza’s glazing system with durable, modern materials while maintaining its architectural integrity.

01 / 05

[{"title":[{"value":"Comprehensive Assessment and Analysis"}],"text":[{"value":"Without access to original shop drawings, the team conducted a meticulous deconstruction of the glazing assembly to analyze its components. Advanced imaging and drone technology assisted in designing new laminated glass panels that matched the building\u2019s signature color.<\/span><\/span><\/p>"}]},{"title":[{"value":"Custom Fabrication of Replacement Components"}],"text":[{"value":"To ensure a seamless restoration, our experts worked alongside ABJV to implement:<\/span><\/span><\/p><ul type=\"disc\"><li>Custom Dyes and Molds:<\/span><\/strong><\/span> Used to replicate the original aluminum extrusions for framing.<\/span><\/span><\/li><li>High-Performance Laminated Glass:<\/span><\/strong><\/span> Supplied by Viracon, featuring bronze and copper tints for aesthetic and functional continuity.<\/span><\/span><\/li><li>Advanced Sealants and Gaskets:<\/span><\/strong><\/span> Engineered for enhanced durability against Hawaii\u2019s environmental challenges.<\/span><\/span><\/li><\/ul>"}]},{"title":[{"value":"Safe and Efficient Installation"}],"text":[{"value":"Restoring a glazing system 40 stories high required stringent safety protocols. The team implemented:<\/span><\/span><\/p><ul type=\"disc\"><li>Specialized Equipment:<\/span><\/strong><\/span> Designed for high-altitude work.<\/span><\/span><\/li><li>Rigorous Safety Measures:<\/span><\/strong><\/span> Including COVID-19 precautions to protect workers and residents.<\/span><\/span><\/li><\/ul>"}]}]

Results: Preserving Architectural Integrity and Performance

The restoration brought immediate and long-term benefits:

Seamless Aesthetic Integration: The new glass panels blended flawlessly with the existing façade.
Improved Clarity and Visibility: The upgraded glazing provided a stark contrast to the weathered, deteriorated panes.
Enhanced Weather Resistance: The revitalized system ensures long-term protection against Hawaii’s intense climate conditions.

Conclusion

Proactive maintenance and expert-led solutions

The successful completion of this project reaffirms SOCOTEC's position as a trusted partner in complex building restoration. It demonstrates our commitment to preserving architectural heritage while ensuring long-term performance and safety in challenging environments. The Imperial Plaza now stands as a testament to the power of expert intervention, ready to face the future with renewed strength and uncompromised beauty.

This project showcased SOCOTEC's expertise in:

Building envelope assessment and restoration
Custom fabrication and material science
High-rise construction and safety management
Environmental adaptation and longevity planning