ConcreteWorks | Winter 2014

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