T2 Helsinki-Vantaa Airport – Roof Elements for the Renovated Terminal

The renovated Terminal 2 at Helsinki Airport features a striking, sculptural roof made of prefabricated wooden elements. LapWall supplied the roof structure as well as facade element solutions for the terminal.

Marko Kellberg, Business Director at LapWall, explains that the roof of Terminal 2 was a challenging project due to both its scale and complex geometry.

“LapWall once again demonstrated its expertise in a large-scale project requiring comprehensive project management capabilities. We were involved in developing solutions together with the client, SRV, and the project team from an early stage. This early collaboration was particularly important in a demanding project such as Terminal 2.”

Kellberg also highlights the successful collaboration within the alliance project.

“We worked together to develop solutions that were optimal from the perspectives of structural engineering, design, construction, installation and the end user. This approach allowed us to make the most of the materials in a cost-effective way. Thanks to the prefabricated roof elements, no separate temporary weather protection was required during construction.”

According to Kellberg, the structure of the impressive roof was particularly challenging, with a height difference of nine metres between its lowest and highest points.

Special expertise was also required in designing and constructing the roof openings. The largest of these is a skylight in the two-storey building, located above the Nature Diorama in the arrivals hall.

Over 300 Elements Covering 12,400 Square Metres

The prefabricated wooden element roof of Terminal 2 demonstrates exceptional expertise in wooden element construction. LapWall's scope of delivery included element design, structural calculations, roof elements including eaves, installation and the final roofing membrane.

Topi Tukiainen, Installation Manager at LapWall, explains that the project involved 314 roof elements covering a total area of 12,400 square metres. The elements were transported to the construction site in 81 truckloads.

Roof installation began in February 2020. According to Tukiainen, the installation phase proceeded smoothly and according to schedule.

“The alliance project followed a takt-time schedule, with roof installation work starting at 6 p.m. each day. Collaboration on the construction site worked well, helping the work progress efficiently. The roof was completed as planned in December 2020.”

LapWall's roof elements were delivered with roof drains, internal gutters and the final roofing membrane already installed. Unusually, the roofing membrane features blue and white colours.

Wood Is an Environmentally Friendly Material

LapWall is a pioneer and forerunner in prefabricated wooden element construction. The company was the first in the world to obtain verified Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs) for its products.

The environmental impact assessments cover raw material sourcing, processing and transportation to the factory, manufacturing, and delivery of the finished products to the construction site.

Business Director Marko Kellberg emphasises that environmental certification is particularly important for customers who prioritise environmental values.