Historic Roof Restoration at Brooklyn’s Paramount Theatre

An award-winning roof replacement at the iconic LIU Paramount Theatre in Brooklyn, NY.

The historic Paramount Theatre — once home to performances by legends like Frank Sinatra, Ella Fitzgerald, and Miles Davis — is undergoing a new chapter thanks to Hayden’s award-winning roofing expertise. 

Tasked with protecting the theatre’s ornate interior while removing asbestos and installing a high-performance Sarnafil roof system, Hayden delivered a solution that ensures this Brooklyn landmark can host world-class events for decades to come.

Quick Facts

  • Client

    Long Island University (LIU)

  • Location

    Brooklyn, NY

  • Facility

    Paramount Theatre (3,000-seat historic venue)

  • Size

    Approx. 30,000 sq. ft. roof

  • System

    Sarnafil® G 410-72 EnergySmart PVC membrane with full insulation assembly

  • Awarded

    Sika Sarnafil’s 2023 Contractor Project of the Year​

Long Island University, Brooklyn, NY

Paramount Extension

The Paramount Theatre, a Brooklyn landmark with nearly a century of history, required a roofing solution that balanced technical expertise with preservation. Hayden Building Maintenance Corporation was selected to complete a full asbestos abatement and roof replacement, ensuring the ornate Rococo-style ceiling below remained untouched. By recommending and installing a Sarnafil roof system, Hayden delivered both durability and long-term performance. The result is a revitalized venue capable of supporting Live Nation’s plans to reintroduce the Paramount as a premier destination for world-class performances.

Challenges

Restoring the Paramount Theatre’s roof required careful planning and specialized execution. The project presented three major challenges:

  • Asbestos Abatement: The existing roof contained asbestos, which required 100% removal under strict safety and compliance protocols.

  • Historic Preservation: Beneath the roof lay the theatre’s ornate Rococo-style ceiling — a priceless architectural feature that could not be disturbed or damaged during the project.

  • Complex Logistics: As a large, multi-use facility in the heart of Brooklyn, the project demanded detailed coordination to protect the structure, manage material staging, and meet a tight project timeline.

Our Solution

Hayden Building Maintenance Corporation approached the Paramount Theatre project with a strategy built on precision, safety, and preservation. After performing a full asbestos abatement and deck preparation, the team installed a Vapor Retarder SA to create a secure air and moisture barrier. This was followed by 5.7 inches of Sarnatherm CG polyisocyanurate insulation, ensuring high thermal performance and energy efficiency.

For the final waterproofing layer, Hayden recommended and fully adhered a Sarnafil® G 410-72 EnergySmart 72 mil PVC membrane — a proven system known for its durability and leak-free seams. Throughout the process, crews implemented specialized safeguards to protect the ornate Rococo ceiling below, ensuring that no damage occurred during demolition or installation.

By combining technical expertise with careful planning, Hayden delivered a watertight, long-lasting roofing system that preserves the historic integrity of the Paramount while preparing it for decades of future use.

Results

The Paramount Theatre project was completed on schedule and without incident, delivering a watertight roof system that safeguards both the building and its priceless interior. Hayden’s careful execution ensured the ornate Rococo ceiling remained fully intact, preserving the theatre’s historic character while providing modern performance and efficiency.

The new Sarnafil system gives Long Island University and Live Nation the confidence that the 3,000-seat venue is protected for years to come, supporting its rebirth as a premier destination for world-class performances. The project’s success was recognized with Sika Sarnafil’s 2023 Project of the Year Award in the Low Slope Re-Roofing category — a testament to Hayden’s technical expertise, attention to detail, and commitment to excellence.

Ready to Protect Your Landmark or Facility?

From historic theatres to modern campuses, Hayden Building Maintenance delivers roofing and waterproofing solutions that preserve value, protect assets, and earn industry recognition. As an award-winning contractor trusted across the Northeast, we bring the same precision and professionalism to every project.

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About Us

Hayden Building Maintenance Corp. is a trusted commercial roofing and waterproofing contractor serving NY, NJ, and CT, since 1973. We specialize in long-term roofing solutions for private schools, industrial facilities, and commercial properties.

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