Case Study: Houston Texans Training Facility
Specialized Cleaning for Peak Performance & Image: Maintaining the Houston Texans Training Facility
Client: Houston Texans Methodist Training Center
Location: Houston, Texas
Challenge: The facility required specialized cleaning for its unique air-supported dome and interior surfaces, which were affected by environmental factors and specific usage conditions. The manufacturer’s guidelines for the dome prohibited traditional pressure washing.
Solution: Implementation of a multi-phased cleaning approach using manufacturer-approved soft chemical washing for the exterior, and specialized techniques for interior surface contamination.
Services: Specialized Cleaning, Soft Wash, Interior Facility Cleaning
Project Overview:
Maintaining a pristine image is critical for a high-profile organization like the NFL’s Houston Texans. Their Methodist Training Center, a massive air-supported dome, presents unique maintenance challenges. Structure Roof & Wall Solutions (SRWS) was engaged over multiple years to provide specialized cleaning solutions tailored to the facility’s delicate structure and unique interior environment.
Challenge 1: Exterior Dome Cleaning (Initial & Post-Hurricane Ike)
The dome’s fabric surface had accumulated significant dirt and biological growth, detracting from its appearance. A primary constraint was the manufacturer’s strict prohibition of high-pressure washing, which could damage the material. After Hurricane Ike, the facility faced another layer of re-soiling.
SRWS solution:
Our team researched and demonstrated a safe and effective soft chemical washing technique. Using a carefully selected cleaning agent and a low-pressure rinse (under 400 psi), we were able to remove all surface contaminants without compromising the integrity of the dome’s fabric. This process was successfully repeated to restore the facility after the hurricane.
Challenge 2: Interior Ceiling Contamination
Following interior restoration work that included the re-installation of synthetic turf, a fine layer of rubber turf granules became adhered to the interior ceiling membrane. This created a speckled appearance and potential air quality concerns.
SRWS Solution:
Addressing this delicate interior challenge required precision and the right equipment. Our team utilized a 125-foot boom lift to access the entire ceiling. Technicians then meticulously swept the adhered granules from the surface by hand, ensuring the membrane was cleaned without being stretched or damaged.
Challenge 3: Interior Wall Soot
Over time, the constant motion from athletic activity aerosolized the fine rubber turf granules, which then settled as a greasy, black soot-like film on the lower interior walls, extending up to 30 feet high.
SRWS Solution:
Because the facility lacks internal drains, a water-intensive cleaning method was not feasible. Our team engineered a solution using a specialized degreasing agent to break down the oily residue. We then applied a low-pressure rinse and immediately captured all runoff with wet/dry vacuums, ensuring a clean surface with a completely dry and secure containment process.
Outcome:
Through a long-standing partnership, Structure Roof & Wall Solutions has consistently provided the Houston Texans with adaptable, effective, and safe cleaning solutions. By respecting manufacturer guidelines and developing customized approaches for unique challenges, SRWS has helped maintain the training facility’s world-class appearance and performance environment, demonstrating our expertise beyond traditional roofing and wall systems.