Flag Waterproofing and Restoration was engaged by the building owner and Architect/Engineer to perform the full height replacement of 60 foot tall, terra cotta half-columns.
The existing columns lacked load bearing support, so in conjunction with the project team, Flag Waterproofing installed temporary protection and structural stabilizers in order to remove the deteriorated columns in a safe manner. The columns were pinned and temporarily shored using a cantilevered system consisting of steel framing that was hung from the main roof.
Upon completion of the demolition, a weather resistant fireproofing was applied to the exposed steel columns. New plate brackets were fabricated and installed to provide the necessary bearing for the new terra cotta.
Lastly, the new terra cotta units were laterally supported with custom fabricated stainless steel anchors welded to the carbon steel. The project presented the construction team with a technical and logistical challenge, but was ultimately completed safely and effectively.
