After a storm in December 2020, a portion of the Prince George Playhouse’s exterior cladding fell off, eventually revealing extensive rot.
The building itself was constructed in the early ‘70s but underwent a major renovation in 1996 to expand the footprint of the facility.
This expansion included additional seating and the construction of a fly tower to support theatrical stage props, rigging and safety systems.
The expanded building exterior was finished with a standard acrylic stucco treatment widely used at the time.
Once a portion of the stucco cladding fell off onto the lower roof and ground this past December, the site was barricaded off and made safe while a local contractor was employed to perform a preliminary inspection and complete interim repairs.
The City of Prince George says, by early January 2021, it became apparent that because of the existing envelope condition specifically, the rot was very extensive and beyond minimal repair.
The city then determined the best course of action was to protect the west façade of the Prince George Playhouse from the elements and to procure a building envelope specialist to do a review.
The review was completed in early February, and Blake McIntosh, Acting Director of Civic Operations, informed city council at last night’s meeting (Feb. 8) administration is now waiting to receive a formal report in the upcoming weeks.
“The report will reflect the results of the condition assessment repair strategies and associated costs for repairs for renewal,” said McIntosh.
When moisture can’t escape it will typically cause rot issues and weaken the bond between the exterior panel and the plywood substrate, however, modern cladding systems are designed to the “Rain Screen Principle” which allow moisture to escape.
“I was at the building the morning after the big windstorm that knocked that section off and I think it was by fluke we saw the extent of the damage,” said Coun. Brian Skakun.
“I’m hoping it is not going to be a significant cost, but it will need to be repaired.”
Council also pointed out the importance of the Prince George Playhouse to the arts community.
“It’s really unfortunate that we are seeing this type of damage in a relatively-not-that old building,” said Coun. Kyle Sampson.
“I wanted to point out that public perception may be that this building is not used that frequently but this is one of our only spaces focused on the arts and I think it’s really important that we continue to invest in the arts and the future of this building.”
The formal report will include repair or renewal strategies for the building envelope, including a high-level cost estimate.
The city said the west façade of the Playhouse is currently protected from the elements through heating and hoarding methodology.
