Overview
Recreating the beloved Swedish-flag water tower using modern composites.
In 2017, Industrial Fiberglass Inc. (IFI) fabricated a fiberglass replica of the Swedish American Museum's rooftop water tower in Chicago's Andersonville neighborhood. The original wooden structure had deteriorated over time. IFI's task was to preserve the landmark's look using durable FRP while minimizing weight and maintenance.
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Authenticity: Match original proportions, details, and Swedish flag graphics.
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Lightweight: Reduce load on the rooftop structure and simplify rigging.
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Weatherability: Chicago-ready resistance to UV, wind, snow, and freeze-thaw cycles.
IFI Solution
Engineered FRP shell with premium resin and UV-stable gelcoat.
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Material System: Custom FRP construction with vinyl-ester resin and UV-resistant gelcoat.
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Fabrication: Hand-layup process for controlled thickness, strength, and finish quality.
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Design: Integrated stiffeners for rigidity without excess weight; modular sections for crane lift and assembly.
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Appearance: Color-matched gelcoat reproduces the Swedish blue and yellow cross.
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Install-Ready: Hidden lifting lugs and anchor points aligned with rigging and rooftop constraints.
Build Photos
Selected shots from fabrication through install.
Shop-built wood formwork for the curved tower panel mold.
Freshly gelcoated FRP panel with Swedish blue and yellow band.
Panels laid out for inspection and gelcoat continuity.
Curved section after demold - ready for edge trim.
Close-up of panel seam alignment prior to final finish.
Multiple finished sections staged for transport.
Base platform and frame alignment at the museum site.
Cylinder sections set and aligned during crane-assisted install.
External steel frame/rigging during staging on site.
Finished backside of a panel showing the laminate build sequence.
Rooftop lift: FRP lid being craned into place above the replica tower.
Other Notable IFI Projects
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Shedd Aquarium - Built the Sturgeon Touch Tank and Jellyfish Exhibit Tank.
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Lurie Children's Hospital - Fabricated the large fiberglass fish tank centerpiece in the main lobby.
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Willis Tower (formerly Sears Tower) - Produced fiberglass radomes that protect summit communication antennas.
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Daley Plaza - Pablo Picasso Fountain - Engineered fiberglass Trench Covers for the fountain's water management.
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O'Hare International Airport - Manufactured fiberglass Brake Boxes for the Airport Transit System.