The Confluence in Castlegar

COMMERCIAL

CHALLENGE

The timing of this project meant that Cascade’s crews were to face extremely cold weather and snow conditions for much of their work. They knew that they needed to complete the building membrane and the air testing before the harsher winter set in, which would allow the interior trades to proceed in a sheltered environment.

As well, knowing that this was a very special community building for Castlegar and the region, Cascade was inspired to perform their work to the best of their abilities. Since The Confluence is distinguished as one of the first Mass Timber structures in Canada to achieve Passive House certification, Cascade also felt privileged to participate in a project that would become a cornerstone for sustainability. They understood that they needed to ensure that their roofing and siding products and installation exhibited superior protection, insulation, and airflow control.

SOLUTION

Despite the challenges of weather, the Cascade crews completed the full building envelope on the structure, which included a metal roof guaranteed with the Roofing Contractors Association of BC (RCABC), metal soffit cladding, and two different metal wall panels. This work helped to achieve Passive House specs and standards on the building, which was then air tested in a few stages. Being responsible for the complete envelope made it easy for Cascade to install proper tie ins and ensure a continuous air barrier.

Due to the unique design of the structure, this project allowed Cascade to be creative while following the specs, plans and RCABC standards. They brought their New Tech machine to site and fabricated the roof panels and wall panels. All other materials were shipped to site.

Since Cascade’s crews are based outside of the Kootenay region, they decided to send them to Castlegar for two weeks at a time and then allow them to return home for a few days. The workers pushed themselves through rain, ice, snow, and -20 temperatures, yet they were efficient in their work and kept the project on target and on budget.

OUTCOME

The Castlegar Chamber of Commerce was proud to officially open The Confluence to the community in August 2024. This innovative multi-purpose building will not only bring economic development, tourism, and local business supports together under one roof, it will stand as a leading example of sustainable architecture and design, as it operates with 85-per-cent reduced emissions compared to regular construction methods.

On this high-profile project, Cascade was honoured to work with Cover Architecture and General Contractors, T. A. Rendek.

According to Terrence Rendek, P.Eng. and Principal, working with Cascade on this project was an exceptional experience. “From the outset, their team demonstrated a level of professionalism and expertise that made the entire process smooth and efficient,” said Rendek.

Furthermore, Rendek affirmed his company’s effective partnership with Cascade:

“Their commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency perfectly aligned with the passive design principles of the building, ensuring the project not only met but exceeded expectations. Cascade Roofing’s attention to detail, quality craftsmanship, and timely execution were pivotal in keeping the project on track. Throughout the process, their team was highly collaborative, working seamlessly with our firm and other sub-contractors and providing clear communication at every stage. They were always willing to address concerns, offer solutions, and ensure the roofing and siding system integrated flawlessly with the building’s overall design.”

Finally, Rendek celebrated the overall outcome of the collaboration:

“The result is a stunning, energy-efficient civic space that serves the community and reflects the hard work and dedication of everyone involved. Cascade Roofing’s contribution to this project has been invaluable, and I would highly recommend them for any future commercial or civic endeavors. Their professionalism, expertise, and quality work make them stand out as one of the best in the industry.”