This blog post examines how record-low temperatures in late January and early February sparked freeze-thaw cycles that produced ceiling leaks in Loomis Hall at Baldwin Wallace University.
The story touches on the building’s age, its diverse roof sections, the impact on media programs and campus radio, and the ongoing efforts to repair and monitor the damage as weather allows.
Understanding the incident: where and why
Loomis Hall, built in 1950, houses programs in Media Production and Communication Sciences and Disorders.
Its roof comprises several sections with varied repair histories, creating a patchwork of vulnerabilities that can respond differently to moisture events.
During the recent cold snap, freeze-thaw cycles stressed roofing components and flashing.
This led to leaks that are being addressed as weather permits.
Scope of the leaks and key trouble spots
Recent snow and ice buildup caused melting over roof flashing, generating leaks that are being fixed when temperatures allow.
A persistent leak outside The Exponent office channels water into a container that must be routinely emptied.
The campus radio station, WBWC 88.3 The Sting, reports leaks above its main studio turntables.
This raises concerns about water exposure to electrical circuits and broadcast equipment.
Impact on campus operations and safety
The leaks are affecting multiple spaces but have had the most visible impact on campus media operations.
At WBWC, management has halted use of turntables to protect equipment and reduce safety risks, temporarily limiting live vinyl capabilities.
Buildings & Grounds indicates there are currently no active leaks in the studio.
Other affected areas—such as the vicinity of The Exponent—require ongoing moisture monitoring and containment.
These factors influence scheduling and resource allocation for student and staff activities tied to campus media.
Communication and on-site monitoring
University leaders emphasize that repairs hinge on a break in the weather.
Dan Karp, VP of Marketing and Communications, and Facilities note there are no departmental or service-wide obstacles to repair work.
Patches installed earlier in the winter are being complemented by continuous monitoring.
Involved students and faculty—such as Adjunct Lecturer Paul Peters and WBWC Chief Engineer Joe Tarantowski—have been kept informed about monitoring results and planned repairs to prevent additional disruptions.
What’s being done and what to expect next
Officials describe a cautious, weather-informed approach to address the envelope and interior moisture.
The plan centers on containment and timely repairs as conditions improve.
- Patch repairs implemented earlier in the season, with ongoing monitoring for shifts in conditions.
- Prioritizing roof flashing vulnerabilities when temperatures rise above freezing and precipitation subsides.
- Coordination among Buildings & Grounds, Communications, and affected departments to minimize disruption while protecting equipment.
Stakeholders and voices
Communication has involved key campus figures and technical staff.
Adjunct Paul Peters and WBWC Chief Engineer Joe Tarantowski have been kept in the loop regarding monitoring updates and upcoming repair plans.
This underscores the collaborative effort to maintain operations while safeguarding sensitive equipment.
As this situation evolves with changing weather, Loomis Hall and its associated programs illustrate a broader, ongoing challenge.
Protecting older campus infrastructure against moisture ingress remains a priority while preserving essential instructional and media activities.
Here is the source article for this story: Extreme weather causes ceiling problems in Loomis Hall