February 2022: Library Building Update
Gillian’s Building Update
February 2022
Gillian Zinser brings us the latest building updates each month. Gillian is the Project Manager at Turner Construction who is responsible for managing the building of the NEW New Canaan Library. The construction team has made a lot of progress since her last update. Here’s what she shared:
Snow and cold temperatures aren’t standing in the way of progress. The construction team removes blankets and snow post storm to continue footing and form prep in the basement.
How is the project going?
Gillian: The project is on schedule for the new building completion in Q1 2023. We are continuing with our submittal process which ensures that each subcontractor is using the correct materials specified by the architect. MEP (Mechanical, Electrical, and Plumbing) coordination using our BIM (Building Information Model) 360 software is ongoing and we have completed this effort for both the basement and ground floor at this point, so about halfway there!
How has the cold temperatures affected the project?
Gillian: We have been making adjustments to our approach in pouring the concrete in the cold weather using standard methods. We put additives in the concrete that enables it to be poured in lower temperatures. We have also begun utilizing ground heaters to warm the areas where we need to dig and prepare the soil to pour footings and walls. We have also been covering the forms and rebar with blankets after they are ready to pour to keep them from freezing prior to the concrete being placed.
How have supply chain issues affected the project?
Gillian: Supply chain issues are handled on an individual basis. When necessary, we may change a certain piece of material for the project by utilizing a different manufacturer from the specifications. Other strategies include shifting some schedule activities in order to accommodate longer lead times. So far the project has been able to pivot around any supply chain issues that have arisen.
What are some of the highlights from this past month?
Gillian: In the past month, we have begun waterproofing the concrete below grade and backfilling the foundations with soil once the waterproofing membrane installations are complete. We have also poured the slab for the elevator and north stair and begun installing masonry for the elevator and stair shafts. We have also begun construction of an exterior wall mockup by our office trailer which will give us a template to work out details of the exterior wall construction before those activities begin on the main building. Check out the photos below!
Solid Foundation
Foundation wall pours around the northwest side of the new building. Carpenters install rebar and forms on footings on the ground level.
Excavation is Complete
Basement excavation is complete to sub-grade.
Waterproofing
Waterproofing the foundation started the week of January 14th.
Slab Prep!
The ground is prepped for the concrete slab to be poured — at the future north stair and elevator.