Project Overview
To meet deadlines, as well as cost and durability goals, the firm chose a precast concrete panel system. The composite precast concrete panels are 2 in.-thick (50 mm) architectural concrete on a galvanized steel stud frame, which translates into thinner and lighter panels. The lighter panels cut concrete costs, while shortening installation time and reducing the need for additional on-site work trades. In spite of the large building footprint, the tower crane was able to lift any panel around the building perimeter, and the lighter loads on the structure translated into overall savings.
Precast Solution
To save additional time, guarantee quality, and enable cold-weather construction, the precast concrete producer suggested installing the windows and insulation in the heated plant so the panels would arrive ready to install at the jobsite. The precaster also provided custom-made forms to create an interesting pattern across the façade, while also mimicking the color of other existing buildings on campus. Overall, the precast gives the building some weight and one can tell the building is resistant just by looking at. |