USF Porter Family Indoor Performance Facility

The University of South Florida (USF) Porter Family Indoor Performance Facility is an impressive 88,000-square-foot climate-controlled building, featuring a full-sized, 100-yard turf football field complete with goalposts. This state-of-the-art facility is designed to enhance the university’s sports programs, particularly football, and stands as a vital asset for its student-athletes.

During the construction phase in 2022, R.R. Simmons Construction Corp., the construction manager, discovered severe deficiencies with the structural steel shop primer including numerous areas of spot corrosion and generalized rust bleed-through from the primer. These issues posed significant risks to the integrity and longevity of the protective system that would be exposed to both interior and exterior conditions (high probability of moisture condensing on the painted steel).  This issue necessitated immediate expert intervention.

PGA’s Facilities Preservation Group was engaged by R.R. Simmons to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the steel conditions. Our team provided detailed repair recommendations tailored to address the specific challenges posed by the existing rust issues. Recognizing the complexities involved—especially given that the structural steel had already been erected—our team also implemented a full-time quality control process to oversee the coating application.

We prepared a thorough technical document outlining precise protective coating recommendations aimed at rehabilitating the structural steel. Our coating inspectors worked diligently to ensure that all application processes adhered strictly to these guidelines, overcoming challenges associated with the confined working conditions and the need for meticulous preparation.

By leveraging our extensive expertise in protective coatings, we successfully addressed the complications associated with the steel’s condition. Our proactive approach not only resolved the immediate issues of rust and corrosion but also safeguarded the long-term durability of the facility.

We pride ourselves on our ability to tackle complex construction challenges, especially those related to protective coatings on steel. The USF Porter Family Indoor Performance Facility project exemplifies our commitment to quality and our expertise in delivering effective solutions that enhance the longevity and performance of critical structures.