War Memorial Auditorium

Project Overview

War Memorial Auditorium is one of Nashville’s most recognizable historic buildings. Maxwell was selected as the roofing contractor for a major renovation project in 2024. Built in 1925, the auditorium is an architectural gem. The new roofing system needed to protect the structure while respecting its aesthetics. The owner wanted modern performance and a longer service life, but the finished roof needed to look exactly the same to visitors.

Maxwell approached the project with a preservation-first mindset and a detailed plan. The team worked closely with the engineers at Skanska to develop solutions that matched the original materials and colors. Careful coordination and preparation allowed crews to move quickly and safely. Maxwell delivered a roof that offered updated performance while keeping the building’s historic character intact.

Challenges

Preserving a One-of-a-Kind Tile Roof System

The existing tile roof was custom built decades ago and secured with copper wire attachments. The owner did not want to replace or alter it. A full tear-off would have changed the look of the building and increased costs. Maxwell needed a way to waterproof and strengthen the system while keeping every visible detail the same.

Matching Multiple Historic Colors

The tile roof was composed of multiple colors and materials. Years of weathering created several distinct tones across the roof. Any coating or repair had to blend perfectly with those variations. A single-color solution would have stood out and disrupted the building’s appearance.

Blending Flashing with Limestone Parapets

The roof perimeter included large limestone parapet walls. Traditional metal flashing would have looked out of place against the stone. The team needed a system that tied into the membrane and remained nearly invisible. The solution also had to hold up for decades in Tennessee’s heat and storms.

Maxwell’s Strategic Solutions

Proactive Preconstruction Planning

Maxwell began planning before the bid was finalized. Superintendent Charles Lunford, Estimator Stephen Marbach, and Vice President of Construction Kasey Fanton studied the roof layout and built a step-by-step installation strategy. Their preparation reduced surprises and allowed the crew to work efficiently once construction began. A clear plan also helped the team shorten the schedule and control costs.

Hand-coated Tile Restoration 

 Maxwell developed a three-part coating system using resin, reinforcing fabric, and a quartz-finished surface. The team tested blends and created four custom color mixes to match the existing tiles. Crews labeled all 2,400 tiles and mapped their placement to ensure accuracy. They mixed materials on site and applied each coating by hand. The finished roof looks original and now carries a 30-year warranty.

Custom Liquid Flashing

For the parapets, Maxwell sourced a liquid flashing that bonds directly to the membrane. The manufacturer helped create a custom color that matched the limestone. Crews installed nearly 900 linear feet of this flashing across the perimeter. The result blends into the façade and delivers long-term waterproof protection.

Outcome and Long-Term Value 

Maxwell protected a historic landmark without changing its identity. The new systems improve durability, reduce future maintenance, and provide long-term warranty coverage. Careful planning allowed the team to complete the work in roughly half the anticipated time.

Today, the roof performs like a modern system while preserving the character that defines War Memorial Auditorium. For owners and contractors working on historic properties, this project shows how the right roofing partner can deliver both craftsmanship and performance.