A L A BA M A CO NCR E TE I NDUSTRIES ASSOC IATION M AGAZ IN E | WIN TER 2014
WINTER 2014
ConcreteWorks is a publication of the Alabama Concrete Industries Association and features articles and photographs pertaining to product applications, educational opportunities, as well as innovative construction techniques impacting the industry. Please email rlindsay@ alconcrete.org with any comments regarding featured articles in ConcreteWorks or to suggest a story idea for a future edition. Rebecca Lindsay,
Art Director & Editor
John Sorrell, Editor
www.alconcrete.org www.mysaferoom.org
2
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Rebuilt
When an F-4 tornado struck downtown
14
50 Years
ACIA is proud to be in business for more
Cullman on April 27, 2011, St. John’s
than 50 years, and we are even more
Engineering was in the direct path. See
excited to showcase our members who
how the company’s new office building was
are also celebrating a golden anniversary
constructed using ICF, hydronic radiant
and beyond.
floor heat with locally made Rehau tubing, and a historically accurate brick façade.
6
AU Raptor Center
Auburn University’s Southeastern Raptor
20
Protecting the Saints in Style
Winner of the 2013 Top Block Award,
Center has a new walkway made of more
Carla Young and Goodwyn, Mills and
than 300 linear feet of pervious concrete.
Cawood designed this $22 million project.
The National Pervious Concrete Pavement
The new Selma High School now meets
Association, Alabama Concrete Industries
ICC’s Storm Shelter Standards, and
Association, Ready Mix USA Concrete of
contains shelter areas that will withstand
Opelika, FORTA Corporation and Estes
winds of up to 250 mph. (ON THE COVER)
Landscape Design were all involved.
8
Architect Spotlight
It’s a family affair in this architecture firm.
24
Laboratory vs. Field Testing of Mortar
Determining mortar strength in the field
Jim Seay’s father founded the company
versus the lab requires the technician to
in 1977, and nearly 30 years later, it’s
follow specific steps presented in ASTM
still a highly reputable organization in a
C270 and C780.
competitive industry.
27
2014 Calendar
New to ConcreteWorks, the 2014 spring calendar will help you save all the important upcoming dates.
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
Rebuilt
Insulated Concrete Forms or
massive tornado outbreak that devastated
ICF provides the designer with
On April 27, 2011, the footprint of the
with locally made Rehau tubing, and a
Southeast was forever changed by a
historically accurate brick façade.
several states. One of the hardest hit areas
“Our office was in a converted 1920s
a wall system that is extremely
was right here in Alabama.
bungalow in downtown Cullman and
strong while also being very
was destroyed by the wave of tornados
energy efficient. A 4”, 6”, or 8”
Cullman was ravished by an F-4 tornado
that devastated much of Alabama in April
ICF wall system provides superior
that tore through downtown and the
2011,” says Bill St. John, president. “We
protection from straight line
historic district, and was estimated to be at
were very fortunate to have had plenty
winds associated with hurricanes
least six city blocks wide.
of warning, so none of our staff was
and wind born debris from
there when the storm struck. We were
thunderstorms and tornadoes.
St. John and Associates, a local engineering
also fortunate not to lose our records or
firm, was completely destroyed. After the
computers and were able to quickly move
ICF wall systems also provide
storm, the firm moved to a temporary office
into temporary offices in a vacant bank
the owner unsurpassed energy
and began to develop plans to construct a
building nearby where we got right back
efficiency. Due to the 4 to 5
new building at the original downtown site.
to work, and then started plans for a new
inches of polystyrene, and thermal
office in our original location soon after.”
mass of the concrete walls,
The 4,000 square foot office building
ICF structures often see energy
features Insulated Concrete Form (ICF)
While planning the design of the new
construction, hydronic radiant floor heat
building, Bill knew he wanted to use ICF
reductions of 30 to 50%.
BILL ST. JOHN AND RICHARD CARNAGGIO | CULLMAN, AL PHOTOGRAPHY BY LEISA COLE/OMNI STUDIO
WINTER 2014 3
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
In planning the new building, the designers focused heavily on green construction. Energy efficiency was maximized while impact on the environment was minimized through design and material choices.
not only for the obvious characteristics like strength and high insulation values, but also the for the more subtle features like depth
IN ADDITION TO ICF, SOME OF THE GREEN CHOICES INCLUDE:
of wall sections for a substantial visual
• Solar management including
appeal and a quiet work environment.
the use of gas filled windows, solar shades and external steel
“I’d used ICF in a project prior to planning
canopy that blocks summer sun
our new building, so I knew I wanted to use
while allowing winter sun to pass
TOP RIGHT: finished exterior of new St.
it for the new construction,” he says. “We
through. The white Duro-Last
John building; photography by Leisa Cole/
worked with Richard Carnaggio of Cohen,
roofing minimizes heat gain. These
Omni Studio
Carnaggio, Reynolds who was able to
efforts were important because of
BOTTOM LEFT: Exterior and entrance
design exactly what we needed and what
the design decision to use large
of new St. John building; photography by
we wanted. His input led us to incorporate
windows throughout to maintain
Mark Froelich
many
connectivity to the environment.
RIGHT PAGE: construction of new St.
features of old brick reconstruction, and
John building
the patterns and details he designed for
• High efficiency electrical
us really set the building apart from most
components including all
contemporary buildings.”
appliances and LED lighting were
historical
and
industrial
design
used throughout. • Ultra efficient HVAC systems utilizing tank-less gas fired boilers feeding hydronic radiant floors and multi-zone dual stage compressor AC units were chosen to provide state-of-the-art comfort year round. • Much of the interior finish utilizes re-purposed components and recycled materials. These include interior doors, windows and flooring. Locally sourced or manufactured building materials included brick, Alabama White Marble, and of course, concrete.
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
St. John & Associates was started in
“We have always tried to offer clients
“We are most proud of our work we’ve
1991 as a civil engineering firm offering
dedicated and responsive service, and
done for the city of Cullman, and have
general civil and environmental engineering
many of our clients are located in and
been involved in the much of the industrial
and planning services in Alabama and
around Cullman so we have been able to
and commercial expansion that has driven
neighboring
the
quickly and efficiently respond to their
the local economy over the last 20 years,”
principles of providing not only quality
states,
founded
on
needs,” says Bill. “We are small enough
Bill says. “We hope that our new building
service but also offering a workplace where
to provide personal attention to clients’
is a distinguishing feature of downtown
its staff can continue to learn, grow, and
needs, but large enough to provide
Cullman’s restoration.”
share in the success of the company.
experienced
design
and
engineering
solutions for their projects.” The firm has grown over the years
construction of the new building, visit
and currently employs nine engineers,
And as residents and business owners
designers and technicians. It has earned
continue to rebuild and reconstruct their
a
engineering
beloved city, St. John’s will do all they
and design and credits its ‘wonderful
can to help maintain the charm and
community’ for its steady growth.
character of Cullman.
reputation
for
quality
To view all of the photos from the sjaonline.com.
WE HOPE THAT OUR NEW BUILDING IS A DISTINGUISHING FEATURE OF DOWNTOWN CULLMAN’S RESTORATION.
WINTER 2014 5
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
AUBURN UNIVERSITY
R APTOR CENTER
A collaborative effort between Auburn University and construction professionals will allow visitors to the Southeastern Raptor Center to have better and safer viewing of birds of prey from an environmentally friendly walkway. Students in a Structures III class taught by Michael Hein, a professor in the McWhorter School of Building Science, working with Auburn Facilities Division and private contractors, prepared the site and placed the more than 300 linear feet of pervious concrete — a material that supports load while it allows water to pass through and reduces
the
environmental
effects
of
stormwater runoff.
BY JANET MCCOY
AUBURN UNIVERSITY RAPTOR CENTER | AUBURN, AL
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
The walkway is behind the bird mews at
set the pace. Plus, I was greeted by Spirit,
a best management practice by the EPA, it
the Southeastern Raptor Center, a division
a bald eagle housed and cared for by the
is not a widely used material in Alabama,
of the College of Veterinary Medicine at
Southeastern Raptor Center, so it doesn’t
so students will learn information they
Auburn University. In addition to about
get any better than that.”
can take to the workforce. In the past 10
30 College of Architecture, Design and
years, Hein and students in his previous
Construction students, Facilities Division
The idea to replace the current gravel
structures classes have used the material
employees and construction professionals,
walkway was that of raptor center staff
on several campus projects, including
the work has been under the watchful eye
members Marianne Hudson and Andrew
parking lots and more than 1,000 linear
of 26 birds of prey, including War Eagle VI,
Hopkins, who conduct numerous private
feet of walkways in the arboretum.
known as Tiger; War Eagle VII, known as
tours of the center.
Nova; and Spirit.
Pervious concrete is a mixture of coarse “The gravel has caused issues for the
aggregate, Portland cement and special
Dale Fisher with the National Pervious
disabled, those with strollers and the
admixtures. The stiff mixture is deposited
Concrete Pavement Association, who is
elderly,” Hudson said.
and compressed with a spinning roller. The
considered by industry executives to be the
result is a high permeability concrete that
creator of pervious concrete, was on hand
Hopkins was walking with a friend in the
to oversee the project. “I came to help with
university’s Davis Arboretum and learned
the logistics of the job because it is one
about
began
University Facilities has played an important
of the most challenging, if not the most
conversations as to the best way to pave
role in the project, with staff and equipment
challenging, pour we’ve ever done because
the area at the raptor center.
being used. Several corporations are also
pervious
concrete,
and
it is angled, narrow and we’re pouring against concrete block,” Fisher said.
supports loads and drains quickly.
involved, including The National Pervious “We’ve wanted it done for years because
Concrete Pavement Association, Alabama
we average about one private tour each
Concrete Industries Association, Ready
“We love Auburn and I commend them
week and we have had challenges walking
Mix USA Concrete of Opelika, FORTA
for what they have done in teaching and
behind the mews,” Hopkins said.
Corp. and Estes Landscape Design.
Fisher said. “Auburn was working with
Although pervious concrete has been
TOP RIGHT: students place more than
pervious concrete 10 years ago and really
around since the 1970s and is considered
300 linear feet of pervious concrete
research related to pervious concrete,”
WINTER 2014 7
A R C H ITEC T S P O T L I G H T
SEAY
Winston Churchill once said, “We shape our buildings, thereafter they shape us.” For 36 years, Jim Seay with Seay, Seay & Litchfield Architects has been a key player in shaping many structures in the River Region. And in meeting Jim, his innate passion for his profession is evident.
EXPANDED AND RESTORED PUBLIC SAFETY BUILDING | MONTGOMERY, AL
WINTER 2014 9
A R C H ITEC T S P O T L I G H T
Founded in 1977, the firm was started
for the art of design early in my life,” he
by his father, the late Jim H. Seay, Sr.,
says. “His proclivity for historic renovations
and is a design-oriented institution that
showed miraculous transformations and
is grounded in providing an exceptional
the endless possibilities in which good
quality of client service.
design can impact human design.”
BOTTOM LEFT: Concrete frame addition
SS&L’s focus on “quality by design”
The restoration of the former Public Safety
to the archives and history building
has been recognized with numerous
Building in downtown Montgomery was a
permits an open, grand design of the new
design awards, such as Architectural
favorite project of Jim’s, as it came in under
refernce room
Firm of the Year (1999) by the American
budget by $1.25 million and was given a
TOP RIGHT: Restored exterior of the
Subcontractors Association of Alabama,
Montgomery AIA award in 2009.
Alabama department of archives and
and its commitment to ethical business
history, constructed of cast in
practices was acknowledged in 2012 with
place concrete.
the River Region Ethics Award.
TOP LEFT: Elegant art Deco lobby of public safety building
The building material of choice? Concrete. Even though considered for demolition,
The firm’s method, as characterized by its
Jim, along with his colleagues at SS&L,
clients, champions disciplined creativity
came up with a solution-based design that
with attention to detail, rendering high-
called for 74,000 square feet of renovation
value,
and two 21,000 square foot additions,
resulting
client-sensitive in
services,
successfully
and
constructed
transforming
this
previously
occupied
projects. SS&L translates clients’ needs
Public Safety Building into the new
into architectural ideas, serving as the
Alabama Attorney General’s Office and
vehicle to a material reality.
the Alabama Division of the Department of Homeland Security.
Jim is a self-proclaimed ‘architect at heart,’ and knew from a young age that his niche
Occupants such as these required state-of-
would be some area of design, and that he
the-art office spaces with the most current
would follow in his father’s footsteps.
HVAC
and
data/telecommunications
services. Nevertheless, this project was “Summers spent with my father, as he
completed
on
a
fast-track
schedule.
practiced architecture, laid a foundation
Design was completed in six months and
AR CHI TE CT S P O T L I G H T
construction lasted 16 months, facilitating
it was delivered through secure and safe
“Concrete is fireproof, cost-efficient and
its swift reopening in October 2008.
building materials such as concrete, which
is easily molded to fit any style of design,”
grows stronger with age.”
says Seay. “When you are drawing the
Located directly southwest of the State
architectural layout of a building of this
Capitol on Alabama’s Capitol Complex,
Sustainable design included enveloping
importance, you have to keep all of those
the original Public Safety Building was built
upgrades to exceed new energy standards
factors in mind. This is the only state
in 1937; and, therefore, required intense
on an existing building; energy efficient
archive and museum in the entire country,
design sensitivity to the existing building
widow
and it houses so many special documents.
aesthetic. The end result is an updated,
lighting; and high efficiency zoned HVAC.
We needed it to be top of the line.”
transition into the architectural aesthetic of
Another prominent building in downtown
The exterior of the building’s addition
the State Capitol Complex.
Montgomery is the 160,000 square foot
reflects the Beaux Art Style of the
Archives and History Building, which was
existing 1930’s structure, and classical
“The use of concrete in the Public Safety
restored and renovated with a 60,000
architectural elements such as the iconic
Building gave our team ultimate flexibility
square foot addition that is home to an
columns and detailed cornice work are
in design options,” he says. “In the end,
archival
replicated seamlessly.
occupants of this facility received exactly
museum, state-of-the-art archival storage
what programming required. Moreover,
as well as office space.
upgrades;
occupancy
sensor
expanded facility that provides a unified
reference
room,
interpretive
WINTER 2014 11
A R C H ITEC T S P O T L I G H T
While Jim has an obvious love for
“The
architectural structures he, quite literally,
with great responsibility, and I believe
has had a hand in, some of his favorite
in passing that deep respect down
pieces of architecture are St. Peter’s
through generations,” says Jim. “Within
Cathedral in Rome, as well as the Library of
our own firm, I derive the great pleasure
Congress in Washington, D.C.
in watching our young designers grow
“St. Peter’s is a truly incredible space, and
practice
of
architecture
comes
About Seay, Seay & Litchfield Architects, Inc.
into knowledgeable, well-respected and
With over 150 years of combined
trusted professionals.”
experience in the architecture
the details and history blow my mind,”
field, SS&L’s team is well
he says. “And I always visit the Library
With a talent like Jim’s, and knowing such
practiced in satisfying a wide
of Congress each time I take a trip to
fine mentors are leading these young
array of architectural needs
Washington. I’m drawn to that building.”
individuals, the architectural industry’s
with distinct and innovative
future is now brighter than ever.
solutions. Additionally, 87% of its
Jim’s dedication and love for architecture
architects are L.E.E.D. Accredited
is unwavering, and he strives to sustain the
Professionals. Eminently
excellence of the industry. He has served
experienced with the LEED-NC
as the state intern development coordinator
Green Building Rating System,
for more than 26 years, and is hands-on in
its systems and techniques result
helping to develop the talent and minds of
in comprehensive designs with
young architects and designers.
significant savings for its clients.
at heart with his passion for amusement
JS: A good pencil is essential in this
parks. Outside of that, I enjoy being a
business and the sidetrac .5mm
Group Leader for Bible Study Fellowship
Samford mechanical pencil is the
as well as running, walking, and swimming
perfect pencil. Unfortunately, they have
with my longtime friends at the YMCA.
quit making these, so I maintain a large supply of them in my office. I do not
GET TO K NOW
JIM SEAY JR.
CW: What are your hobbies?
CW: What’s the last book you read?
ever want to run out. Metal housing that
JS: I just finished Paris, by Edward
keeps the led from breaking and the
Rutherfurd. It is a Historic Novel that
telescoping eraser allows me to draw
discusses events from the French revolution
and write specs for days.
and Eiffel Tower to the First World War. CW: What is an interesting fact
JS: Most of my hobbies involve time with my family. My daughter and
CW: What’s your favorite food?
that most people don’t know
son-in-law just welcomed their first
JS: I have a weakness for all things sweet,
about you?
child, Isabel. This first year of her life
but Pecan Pie is among my favorites. I
JS: I am the only two-sport varsity
has been an incredible joy to witness.
buy them often, and I do not discriminate
athlete to graduate with a degree in
My son James and his wife have
between full and miniature sizes.
architecture from Auburn University. I
incredible musical talents, which has
lettered in wrestling, competing in the
spawned a love of the arts for me. My
CW: What is the one tool you can’t
unlimited weight class, and also played
youngest son Winn keeps me young
live without?
offensive tackle for the football team.
CONCRETE IS FIREPROOF, COST-EFFICIENT AND IS EASILY MOLDED TO FIT ANY STYLE OF DESIGN
INTERIOR OF THE ARCHIVES AND HISTORY BUILDING | MONTGOMERY, AL
WINTER 2014 13
F E AT U R E
60
5 100 0 YEARS
F E AT U R E
Being in business for 50 years is quite
Beginning
a feat, and as the Alabama Concrete
company, Hodgson Concrete has thrived
Industries Association celebrates its golden
and is the second oldest Ready Mix
anniversary, it’s proud to have several
concrete supplier in the state. In 1999, the
members celebrating more than 50 years
company was sold to Kirkpatrick Concrete
in business as well.
in Birmingham.
Founded in 1963 by Cecil Stallings of
“Now being part of a larger organization
Mobile, James Johnson of Huntsville, Bill
has put is in a strong position to be a
Sweeney of Selma and Charles Cranford
better company for our employees and
of Birmingham, ACIA’s first office was
customers,” says Bill Hodgson, (TITLE).
in Selma,
with the primary purpose of
“We have expanded our coverage and
promoting
concrete
thrive off of jobs that require a high level of
masonry.
Today,
the association not only represents the
as
a
small,
family-owned
performance.”
masonry industry but also the ready mix, cement, and other affiliated industries. As
The company credits its success to the
of 2013, the association is proud to have
high level of service and quality, and has
more than 100 members.
always sought to stay on the cutting edge of technology in the industry. Keeping the
‘family atmosphere’ creates a desirable work environment, and something they
Hodgson Concrete
strive to keep.
More than 100 years ago, Hodgson
“We want to continue or role as the high
Concrete was established as a concrete
quality producer in the market, and grow
and
While
at a manageable rate that allows us to
originally serving only Montgomery, the
maintain our corporate personality,” says
business has grown to have locations
Hodgson. “Staying profitable so we can
throughout the River Region, including
pay our employees good wages and
Wetumpka, Prattville and Mt. Meigs.
acquire the best equipment available is a
building
supply
provider.
top priority.”
WINTER 2014 15
F E AT U R E
Hodgson says that the opportunities to
he says. The companies that adapt quickly
supply concrete on so many projects in
to the changes will survive, and we will be
the Montgomery area has been a true
one of the survivors.”
blessing. Some of the company’s best projects include G.E. Plastics Division in Burkeville, AL, now known as Sabic, as well as the RSA Headquarters building, the
Webb Concrete
RSA Judicial Office building and the RSA Tower in Montgomery.
In 1946, company founder Garth Webb opened the doors as Farmers Supply
“The RSA Tower was the first project in our
Company in Heflin, Alabama. The store
area that included the use of high strength
catered to farmers and sold hardware,
concrete in excess of 7000 PSI, and the
feed, seed and fertilizer. Over the years, the
experience we gained from working on
organization continued to prosper, and in
this project was extremely valuable as
1980 changed its name to Webb Concrete
we continue to enjoy the benefits of the reputation it earned us,” says Hodgson. While the current business climate makes it difficult to predict the future, Hodgson says the next several years could bring big changes to the industry. He gives credit to all of the people working in this business, saying they are ‘the best in the world.’ “Working with the employees at my company and the ones that work for the competition is a privilege I enjoy everyday,”
F E AT U R E
and Company. Today, operating under
“Our greatest achievement is to still be in
Webb Concrete and Building Materials,
business after all these years despite the
there are more than a handful of locations
challenges we have faced,” says Webb.
throughout Alabama and in Rome, Ga.
“I’m proud that we are able to go into a new market with a good name, and I’m
Its service and dedication to its customers
glad people identify us as striving to serve
is evident, and the company’s top priority.
the customer in a good, honest and hardworking way.”
TOP LEFT: Bill Hodgson MIDDLE LEFT: Robert Hodgson Sr., Bill
“We strive to provide customers with quality products, and are committed to
Webb Concrete’s products and services
Hodgson’s grandfather
hiring the best employees and building
is vast, and includes not only a variety of
BOTTOM LEFT: Hodgson Concrete staff
long-term relationships,” says Phil Webb,
ready mix concrete including concrete prep
TOP RIGHT: Phil Webb
owner. “Being locally owned and operated,
materials, concrete reinforcement, concrete
BOTTOM RIGHT Webb Concrete staff
we can make decisions quickly and are
retaining walls, and concrete sand and
more involved in the community. We take
stain but also bathroom materials, carpet/
our commitment to service very seriously.”
rugs, deck supplies, hardware, siding and tile to name a few.
In the past few years, the economy has taken a hit, but Webb Concrete
After more than 60 years in business, Webb
has continued to thrive. Webb credits
is still optimistic of the company’s future.
being able to identify the shortfalls in management,
and
specifically
in
the
“I hope we will always continue to grow,
areas of customer credit management
and to be engaged in the community and
and inventory management as helping to
to our employees,” he says. “Our long-term
make the necessary adjustments to move
strategy is to stay true to the operating
forward as a business.
philosophy that the business was build
WINTER 2014 17
MY GRANDFATHER, PIERSON COSBY, AND MR. CARMICHAEL WERE BOTH INTERESTED AND COMMITTED TO A QUALITY PRODUCT...
COLUMBUS PIERSON COSBY
F E AT U R E
on, while expanding our market footprint.
“My grandfather, Pierson Cosby, and
and they understand the importance of
Our motto is ‘from the ground up,’ so for
Mr. Carmichael were both interested
service and courtesy to our customers.”
me, my favorite thing is seeing what our
and committed to a quality product, and
concrete becomes the foundation for.”
good service for every customer at a
While the economy is still trying to find
fair and reasonable price,” says Cosby
its way up, Cosby & Carmichael hopes to
And just as it started years ago, Webb
Carmichael, president of the company.
grow as well.
Concrete continues to keep its business
“The company was founded on that
strong with a firm foundation on solid,
philosophy, and it has been important the
“We’re going to do our best to stay
concrete ground.
success of the business.”
around,” says Carmichael. “Making it this long is a tremendous achievement,
Cosby & Carmichael Concrete
Cosby & Carmichael supplies concrete
and I hope my sons, Clay and Ken, will
to a small market, and for that reason
continue the business if it’s their will. In
its volume is very volatile, and can be
this industry, you can do all you can and
challenging
it’s still challenging. And if it weren’t for
to
balance
people
and
As World War II came to an end, Harry
equipment and still make a profit. But that
Kendrick Carmichael, who worked for
doesn’t discourage them. BOTTOM: Cosby Carmichael with his
Loan Star Cement Company in Demopolis, and Columbus Pierson Cosby founded
Employing 24 people, and being in
Cosby & Carmichael Ready Mix, forming
business for nearly 70 years, they have
a partnership that would supply concrete
made a their mark on the community.
needs in Selma and Dallas County.
Some notable projects include the new
Carmichael’s previous experience with
that, we wouldn’t be in business.”
Selma
High
School
and
International Paper.
Loan Star made him familiar with the cement industry, and with local citizens
“Our company has been very fortunate to
in the community. Cosby had worked in
have employees with a good work ethic,
the Sand & Gravel business in Selma since
and who are very loyal,” says Carmichael.
1914, so the two men were a natural fit,
“We have several employees who have
and the business was an early success.
worked with us for more than 40 years,
sons, Ken and Clay
PLUS
In addition to the companies featured, these members have also been in business for 50+ years: Couch Ready Mix DCA Ready Mix Evergreen Concrete Reynolds Ready Mix River City Ready Mix Bama Concrete Kirkpatrick Concrete Sherman Industries
WINTER 2014 19
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
E H T G N I T C E PROT
S T N I S LE Y T S IN
OUTSIDE SELMA HIGH SCHOOL | SELMA, AL
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
On August 20, 2012, more than 1,000
such as the brick and stone from the front
institutions of higher learning to include a safe
students walked through the doors of a
entrance now featured as detail in the state-
room in new educational institutions.
brand new high school in Selma, Alabama.
of-the-art media center and library.
The 195,000 square-foot public high school
The building, comprised of mainly concrete
was designed by architects at Goodwyn,
“When designing the new school, we were
due to its versatile and cost-effective
Mills & Cawood, Inc.
able to incorporate the original limestone
characteristics, is one of the first schools
THIS IS A MAGNIFICENT FACILITY, AND I THINK IT IS GOING TO CHANGE THE MINDSET OF SOME OF THE STUDENTS. The $22 million project was constructed
entry façade of the historic high school
in Alabama built to reflect the newly state-
in phases on the existing site to allow the
into the media center,” says Carla Young,
mandated International Code Council (ICC)-
school to remain open for educational
architect. “The restored piece can be seen
500 Storm Shelter Standards requiring
purposes. Portions of the school were
from the new front lobby, and it brought the
all schools to contain storm shelter areas
removed and reused in the new design,
historic and the new together in the heart
capable of withstanding winds up to 250
of the school.”
miles per hour.
The Alabama Concrete Industries Association
“The shelter walls were made of eight-
(ACIA) was a leader in helping pass new
inch thick poured concrete walls with
legislation requiring all two and four-year
reinforcing,” says Carla. “The shelter was
WINTER 2014 21
SELMA HIGH SCHOOL LIBRARY | SELMA, AL
PROJECT SPOTLIGHT
incorporated as part of the corridors in
“School buildings are often a reflection of the
the classroom wings, thus allowing for the
county or city that funds their construction
shelter to be of daily use space as well
just as in any public municipal building,”
as a convenient location to quickly move
says Carla. “School design can be a very
students to a safe location.”
personal statement of the community.
The design of the new high school began
Goodwyn, Mills & Cawood, Inc. is an
in November 2009, with construction
integrated
starting in December 2010. The school
and
accommodates
comprehensive
1,200
students
and
architecture,
environmental
engineering
firm
menu
providing
of
a
professional
consists of 84 spacious classrooms. It
services. The firm is comprised of more
also includes a competitive gymnasium,
than 300 professionals with offices located
football field, auditorium and theater and
throughout the Southeast and projects
cafeteria and kitchen.
spanning across the United States. It serves a wide range of clients in almost
When designing a school, a unique set of
all
requirements has to be met, not only for
Hospitality,
markets,
Healthcare,
including
providing versatile classroom space but also
Education,
Municipal,
large assembly areas such as gymnasiums,
Urban
auditoriums, and dining facilities. Equally
projects of every caliber. GMC provides
important is designing an aesthetically
all of the professional services associated
pleasing environment and a building that
with architecture, civil, geotechnical and
provides safety and durability for the daily
environmental
use of students.
architecture,
Development
planning,
Commercial, Sustainability, Transportation,
and
engineering, master
survey
more,
BOTTOM RIGHT: the Saints of Selma High
with
landscape
planning, and
TOP: Selma High School hallway
airport
construction
administration to meet clients’ needs.
WINTER 2014 23
TECHNICAL REVIEW
LABORATORY VS. FIELD TESTING OF MORTAR BILL GOODLOE
Technical Services Manager, CEMEX
When
project
specifications
require
mortar to be tested at the jobsite, it often becomes an issue because the proper procedures for field testing of mortar are commonly misunderstood. Consequently, improper methods are used and failing tests are often reported. ASTM C270, “Standard Specification for Mortar for Unit Masonry”, has requirements for compressive strength, however, it is a laboratory test, not a field test. What many people do not realize, is that there is not a field test for compressive strength that can, or should be, used for acceptance. ASTM C270 provides specifications for mortars for use in the construction of nonreinforced and reinforced unit masonry structures. The mortar may be specified by either the proportion specification or the property specification. There are no strength requirements for the proportion specification. The property specification outlines 28 day strengths for Types M, S, N, and O mortar. The strengths are tested in the laboratory. The water content of the mortar made in the laboratory is much less than the water content of the mortar that is mixed in the field. The reason that it contains less water is to try and simulate the mortar after it has been subjected to the “wicking” action of the masonry units, which draw water out of the mortar. Mortar that is tested in the field is not subject to the strength
WINTER 2014 25
TECHNICAL REVIEW
requirements of ASTM C270. It is impossible
Strength samples cast in accordance
If you are faced with the situation of low
for a compressive strength mold to simulate
with ASTM C780 are made in either 2
compressive strength test results of mortar
the “wicking” action of a masonry unit. Any
by 4 inch or 3 by 6 inch plastic cylinders
specimens, make sure you review the test
mortar in the field that is placed in a mold will
or in 2 by 2 inch metal cube molds. The
procedures that were used. As stated
have a much higher water/cement ratio than
mortar is mixed at the same consistency
before, there is not a field test that can
what is actually in the wall. Therefore, any
as it would be for actual use. The mortar
be used for acceptance. ASTM C270 is a
compressive strength sample from the field
prepared in accordance with ASTM C780
laboratory test. ASTM C780 is a field test
will almost always test lower than the ASTM
contains more water than mortar made in
and the results obtained should only be used
C270 laboratory prepared samples.
accordance with ASTM C270. The molds
for comparison to the results obtained from
used will not absorb water from the mortar
the ASTM C780 preconstruction testing.
ASTM for
C780,
“Standard
Preconstruction
Evaluation Reinforced
of
Mortars
Unit
Test
and
Method
the same as the masonry units would,
Construction
therefore, the strength result should not be
References:
expected to be the same.
1. ASTM C270, Standard Specification for
for
Masonry”,
Plain
and
provides
Mortar for Unit Masonry, Annual Book of
specifications for testing mortar before
When the specifications for a project are
Standards, Vol. 04.05, 2006
and during construction. The purpose of
first reviewed, it should be determined if
2. ASTM C780, Standard Test Method
this is for establishment of general strength
the mortar will be subject to the proportion
for Preconstruction and Construction
characteristics and material compatibility
specifications or the property specifications.
Evaluation of Mortars for Plain and
as well as consistency during construction.
If the proportion specifications are used,
Reinforced Unit Masonry, Annual Book of
ASTM C780 states very clearly that strength
then there is no testing required. If the
Standards, Vol. 04.05, 2006
results from this specification are not meant
property specifications are used, then the
3. Portland Cement Association, Concrete
to be held to the requirements of ASTM
actual jobsite materials should be tested
Masonry Handbook, 5th Edition, 1991
C270. It states in A7.1.1 that “Strength
according to both ASTM C270 and ASTM
values for mortars obtained through these
C780. This should be performed prior to
testing procedures are not required, nor
the start of construction. The C780 test
expected, to meet strength requirements of
should be used in the field as a basis for
laboratory Specification C270 mortars”.
comparison once the project starts.
0 5 2014 1 1 22 MARK IT
DOWN
FEBRUARY
2014 CALENDAR
Capital Day on March 6. The program will begin at 11 am with a presentation by the ACIA on current issues in the legislature affecting our industry. At noon we will hold a luncheon with invited Representatives and Senators.
Truck Rodeo Committee
FEBRUARY
J A N UA RY
-14
ACI/CT Certification
Annual Meeting and Board Meeting
ACI Level 1 is a two-day only program that will consist of classroom review followed by
MAR CH
11
Please join us for the 2014 Annual Business
a written test and hands on performance
Meeting on Wednesday, January 22nd at the
test. Concrete Technology (CT) is a one and
Hyatt Regency Birmingham-The Wynfrey
a half day course addressing regulations
Hotel at 11 a.m. Registration will begin at
of concrete as required by the state. After
10:30 am, and the meeting kicks-off with the
successful completion of this class, state
recognition of current board members and
employees will be qualified to run testing
ACI/CT Certification
officers, 2014 ACIF Scholarship Winners,
procedures to determine the quality of
ACI Level 1 is a two-day only program that
and the 2014 Chairman Award winner. The
the concrete. There is a written exam for
will consist of classroom review followed by
luncheon will follow.
this certification. To register, visit www.
a written test and hands on performance
alconcrete.org/classes.
test. Concrete Technology (CT) is a
06 MARCH
-14
one and a half day course addressing regulations of concrete as required by the state. After successful completion of this class, state employees will be qualified to run testing procedures to determine the quality of the concrete. There is a written exam for this certification. To register, visit www.alconcrete.org/classes.
Legislative Day
Please mark your calendars and make plans to join us in Montgomery for our 2nd Annual
WINTER 2014 27
2014 CALENDAR
19 12
MARCH
APRIL
ACI Strength
Truck Rodeo
Concrete Strength Testing Level I is an eight
The 2014 Truck Rodeo will be held at
hour course which covers the following ASTM
Barber Motorsports Park. Alabama State
standards: C39, C78, C617, and C123.
Troopers will be on site to judge each
01
APRIL
-04
driver on their performance. The drivers will again participate in a written exam prior to the driving portion, with cash prizes given to the winners.
15
APRIL
-18
ACI/CT Certification
ACI/CT Certification
ACI Level 1 is a two-day only program that
ACI Level 1 is a two-day only program that
will consist of classroom review followed by
will consist of classroom review followed by
a written test and hands on performance
a written test and hands on performance
test. Concrete Technology (CT) is a one and
test. Concrete Technology (CT) is a one and
a half day course addressing regulations
a half day course addressing regulations
of concrete as required by the state. After
of concrete as required by the state. After
successful completion of this class, state
successful completion of this class, state
employees will be qualified to run testing
employees will be qualified to run testing
procedures to determine the quality of
procedures to determine the quality of
the concrete. There is a written exam for
the concrete. There is a written exam for
this certification. To register, visit www.
this certification. To register, visit www.
alconcrete.org/classes.
alconcrete.org/classes.
PRSRT STD U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
MONTGOMERY, AL PERMIT NO. 456
1745 Platt Place Montgomery, AL 36117 www.alconcrete.org 334.265.0501
Wednesday, January 22, 2014 The Hyatt Regency (formerly Wynfrey Hotel), Birmingham PIERRE VILLERE, Allen-Villere Partners GREG CANFIELD, Secretary, Alabama Department of Commerce
2014 ACIF Scholarship Recipients 2014 Chairman Award Recipients