A 1,400-square-foot section of roofing over East Evergreen Elementary School’s gym recently was replaced following a roof inspection earlier in the year.

“We noticed soft spots in the roof structure,” said Evergreen School District Maintenance Director Steve Windbigler.

Superintendent Joel Voytoski said the damage to the relatively new roof came as a surprise.

“It definitely was unplanned,” Voytoski said about having to repair it. “The roof was built as an expansion in 2004.”

There wasn’t a clear explanation of what caused the roof damage. The original roof had a vapor barrier membrane and no leaks were found. Architects Design Group, which designed the original structure, determined the likely cause of the damage was moist air that escaped and froze, according to Sept. 12 board meeting minutes.

“As the air would get cold, moisture would condense on the lower side of the roof deck,” Windbigler said.

The roof section, including all plywood structures and damaged insulation, was replaced and four ventilators were installed to improve airflow.

“The architects are confident this will solve the problem,” Windbigler said. “Because it was condensation it was not covered by the warranty,” Windbigler said.

The roofing project, completed Oct. 12, cost the district $15,439. Voytoski said the district used money set aside for deferred maintenance from a past legislative session.

Reporter Hilary Matheson may be reached at 758-4431 or by email at hmatheson@dailyinterlake.com.