Since 2012, T5 Data Centers—a leading developer and operator of mission-critical data center facilities—has played a significant role in the Portland, Oregon region. That year, the company delivered Oregon’s first purpose-built wholesale data center: a 200,000-square-foot, LEED-certified facility that set a new standard for sustainable, large-scale digital infrastructure in the state.
In 2020, T5 Data Centers broke ground on a new campus in Hillsboro, Oregon, initiating a strategic partnership with Flexential that resulted in a multi-phase, build-to-suit development completed in 2023. The state-of-the-art facility spans more than 500,000 square feet and delivers over 54 megawatts of critical power. Designed for high-performance computing, the Hillsboro campus supports power densities up to 50kW per rack through a combination of advanced air and liquid cooling systems. T5 remains focused on delivering scalable, efficient data center solutions to meet your environmental goals.
Approximately 85% of the T5 Data Center’s structure was built using insulated metal wall panels with an integrated weather barrier system. These three-inch, R-21-rated panels wrapped nearly the entire building, enhancing energy efficiency and helping protect against weather elements. However, incorporating various materials and finishes throughout the facility introduced challenges, particularly in areas where wood cladding overlapped with the existing siding. Ensuring a level surface was crucial to maintaining a straight, even application of subsequent layers.
Flynn Companies, a leading contractor specializing in commercial roofing, and glazing, specified Siplast for this project, given Siplast’s reputation for performance, durability, and customer service. The Beaverton, Oregon-based contractor turned to them again for the final phase of construction and selected Siplast’s WALLcontrol™ Air & Water-Resistive Barrier (AWB) Systems, which provide exceptional protection and long-term performance. What stood out to Flynn Companies was the ease of installation—the fluid-applied product required minimal training, allowing for efficient implementation. Additionally, the guarantee reinforced confidence in its long-term reliability.**
The project features canopies clad in aluminum composite material with built-in gutters. Beneath these canopies, the Siplast WALLcontrol™ AWB System serves as the primary air and water-resistive barrier, ensuring durability and protection. The WALLcontrol™ system was also applied behind nearly all faux wood cladding and aluminum composite material, reinforcing the building envelope across multiple surfaces. One-third of the building’s north elevation is clad with small insulated metal panels, with the canopy visible in this section, where the WALLcontrol™ system enhances durability and protection.
Incorporating various materials and finishes throughout the facility presented challenges, especially where wood cladding overlapped with existing siding. In these areas, the siding was installed directly over the WALLcontrol™ system, requiring precise edge detailing with liquid flashing and screws to ensure a smooth, even surface. WALLcontrol™ provided a reliable solution by offering a robust air and water-resistive barrier, facilitating seamless integration with the cladding materials. Without this system, surface irregularities would have required extensive shimming for a flawless finish.
A key advantage of using the WALLcontrol™ suite for the T5 Data Center project was the ability to source all manufacturer warranties from a single supplier—Siplast—streamlining the warranty process and ensuring consistency across the building envelope. With support from Siplast’s sales team and documented installation guidelines, the system was smoothly integrated into the project. Siplast’s technical guidance played a key role in helping the project team identify and implement the most effective solution. The WALLcontrol™ AWB Systems provide robust moisture protection for the facility, and by exclusively using Siplast products, contractors benefit from uniform performance and comprehensive coverage.** Close collaboration with Siplast professionals helped Flynn Companies successfully manage the complexities of integrating multiple materials, resulting in a smooth installation and a high-quality outcome.
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Siplast Products Used
● WALLcontrol™ Air & Water-Resistive Barrier (AWB) Systems:
○ WALLcontrol™ Pro Primer AC
○ WALLcontrol™ Liquid
○ WALLcontrol™ Liquid Flashing 20oz
○ WALLcontrol™ Aluminum Butyl Flashing
○ WALLcontrol™ Liquid Flashing
○ WALLcontrol™ Butyl
Project Team
● Architect: Corgan
● Building Envelope Consultants: D-Seven LLC
● Contractor: Flynn Companies
● Installer: Flynn Companies
● Ownership: T5
● Building Enclosure: Siplast
**For qualified systems only. Additional requirements apply. Contact Siplast for more information. Refer to the applicable guarantee or warranty, available at siplast.com, for complete coverage and restrictions.
Feature Image Courtesy of Siplast
