Ithaca, NY
Cornell University, Veterinary Research Tower
Scope/Solutions
The Veterinary Research Tower is a nine-story structure that was built in the 1970s, and is clad with brick veneer and curtain walls. The walls were constructed without insulation or air barriers and single-pane windows and curtain walls. Cornell University commissioned a whole building condition assessment and design concepts for making code upgrades, improving energy efficiency, and addressing other maintenance. SGH assisted the architect by assessing the building enclosure’s condition and recommending repair options.
Highlights of our work include the following:
- Conducting a facade and roof condition assessment using conventional and rope access techniques
- Performing water testing and making observations at exploratory openings
- Recommending repairs and maintenance for the windows, roofs, and facade
- Evaluating the effects of adding insulation to the brick veneer walls both from the interior and exterior using transient moisture vapor drive analysis
- Collaborating with the architect and MEP designer on whole building energy analyses by providing anticipated u-factors for both existing and proposed building enclosure components
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Project Summary
2010
Completion Date
5M
Construction Value
Solutions
Repair & Rehabilitation | Preservation
Services
Building Enclosures | Performance & Code Consulting | Applied Science & Research
Markets
Education
Client(s)
Anshen + Allen
Specialized Capabilities
Condition Assessments | Preservation | Energy & Sustainability | Environmental Simulations
Key team members
Susan Knack-Brown
Managing Principal, Building Technology, Boston
Additional Projects
Northeast
Fontbonne Academy
Fontbonne Academy, a secondary girls’ school, experienced several flooding events on the campus and adjacent roadway. SGH investigated the flood issues at the campus and developed strategies for mitigating future damage.
Northeast
Bowdoin College, Whittier Field Support Building
Bowdoin College undertook a phased project to renovate the historic Whittier Field and Magee-Samuelson Track. SGH provided building enclosure commissioning and testing services to support the project’s LEED certification.