April 04, 2011
By: Bruce Berry
The home of the National Football League's Minnesota Vikings is having its roof replaced after the weight of massive amounts of snow infamously caused it to collapse this winter.
The Hubert H. Humphrey Metrodome is having its roof replaced for the first time in 29 years, with New York-based contractor Birdair hired to replace the same structure it originally installed in 1982. The work is estimated to cost $18 million, though officials say insurance will cover the bill, minus a $25,000 deductible.
Workers will replace large panels six days per week, with construction estimated to be finished August 1. The order to replace the roof came from the Minnesota Sports Facilities Commission, who acted on advice from engineers who said a simpler repair job would not be able to assure the structure's integrity should another storm bring significant amounts of snow.
The roof's collapse occurred the day before the Vikings were scheduled to play the New York Giants on Monday Night Football, and its video footage made the rounds on daytime talk shows and the internet for days.
But the Metrodome was not the only victim of the December storm that dumped 17 inches of snow across much of the Midwest. Homeowners in many states were forced to tap into home insurance policies to repair damages from harsh winds and heavy snows.
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