In the heart of downtown Long Beach, one of Southern California's most vibrant urban corridors, stands the iconic Kress Lofts — a beautifully preserved historic building that blends early 20th-century architectural grandeur with modern loft living. In 2025, BYLTup was entrusted with a complex, high-stakes roofing project that would protect this landmark for decades to come.
This was far more than a standard roof replacement. It was a comprehensive, multi-month structural and aesthetic transformation requiring meticulous planning, city coordination, crane operations, and seamless collaboration with all stakeholders.
Project Overview: A Massive Undertaking for a Historic Treasure
The Kress Lofts roofing project presented unique challenges typical of historic urban buildings: multiple layers of aging roofing materials, strict preservation requirements, occupied multi-storied residential units, and a busy downtown city street location. BYLTup's team executed a full tear-off and replacement while minimizing disruption to residents and the surrounding community.
Key Project Highlights:
- Complete removal of four layers of old capsheet roofing
- Installation of a premium 60 mil single-ply PVC IB Roof System
- New curb-mounted double-dome Lane-Aire skylights
- IB Walktread protective walkway system
- Floating Trex composite decking installed over a sacrificial IB membrane in select areas
- Full 25-year No-Dollar-Limit (NDL) warranty backed by IB Roof Systems
Extensive Coordination & Logistical Mastery
Executing a project of this scale on a historic building in an active urban environment required exceptional coordination. BYLTup worked closely with:
- The City of Long Beach permitting and inspection teams
- Action Property Management
- The HOA's third-party construction management firm, RCS
- Building residents
Street and sidewalk closures were implemented with precision. A large crane was mobilized to safely hoist materials and equipment to the roof level, ensuring minimal impact on daily operations below. The multi-stage process was carefully phased to maintain resident access and safety throughout the project, while working around the coastal climate that Long Beach is known for.
Step-by-Step Roofing Transformation
1. Demolition & Tear-Off
The existing roof consisted of four layers of deteriorated capsheet material — a common but problematic condition in older commercial and historic structures. BYLTup's crew performed a complete tear-off, properly disposing of the old material and preparing the substrate for modern waterproofing.
2. IB Single-Ply PVC 60 Mil Roof System Installation
The centerpiece of the project is the new IB Roof Systems 60 mil PVC membrane — a high-performance, single-ply solution known for superior UV resistance, flexibility in extreme temperatures, and exceptional weld strength. This fully adhered system provides long-term durability and energy efficiency, reflecting heat and reducing cooling costs for the lofts below.
3. Enhanced Skylight Replacement
New curb-mounted double-dome Lane-Aire skylights were installed to dramatically improve natural light penetration while maintaining superior thermal performance and weather-tightness. These modern skylights complement the historic character while delivering functional upgrades residents will enjoy daily.
4. Walktread & Protective Systems
High-traffic areas received durable IB Walktread to protect the new PVC membrane from foot traffic and maintenance activities.
5. Premium Floating Rooftop Deck
In designated amenity areas, BYLTup installed a beautiful floating Trex composite deck system. The deck rests on an IB sacrificial membrane, allowing the underlying PVC roof to remain fully protected and warrantied while creating an inviting outdoor space with sweeping city views.
Finished Roof: Beauty, Performance & Peace of Mind
The completed roof is a masterclass in modern commercial roofing. The bright white PVC membrane reflects sunlight, dramatically lowering rooftop temperatures. Crisp detailing around parapet walls, flashing, and transitions showcases the craftsmanship that defines BYLTup's work. The new Lane-Aire skylights and expansive Trex deck areas have transformed the rooftop into a true resident amenity.
Why This Project Matters
Historic buildings like the Kress Lofts require roofing contractors who understand both modern material science and the importance of preservation. BYLTup delivered a solution that respects the building's heritage while equipping it with 21st-century performance. With a full 25-year NDL warranty from IB Roof Systems, the HOA, property management, and residents can rest easy knowing this critical building envelope is protected against leaks, ponding water, and weathering for a generation.
Ready for Your Next Roofing Project?
Whether you manage a historic loft building, commercial property, or multi-family community, BYLTup brings the same level of expertise, coordination, and premium materials to every project.
Contact BYLTup today for professional roofing solutions including single-ply PVC, TPO, modified bitumen, coatings, skylight replacement, solar, gutters, and custom rooftop deck installations.
Project completed in 2025 • Kress Lofts • Los Angeles Metropolitan Area