Tag: Deck Construction

  • Carrier Beams Installed for Icehouse Deck

    Carrier Beams Installed for Icehouse Deck

    Most of our icehouse rehab updates have focused on the historic building itself, but today we look at progress on the new deck being constructed west of the icehouse and north of the carriage barn. First we carved out the new grade changes, and then we installed the helical piers. Today hefty carrier beams (aka girders) were installed on top of the steel piles.

    Icehouse Deck Girder Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)
    Icehouse Deck Girder Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)

    In the photo above Tony and Jarrett are securing an adjustable steel base to the top of the helical pier. They’re tightening a 1” bolt down through a slotted hole (allowing for alignment adjustability) into the steel post. Once the base is aligned and torqued tight, a 1″ steel standoff is added, lifting the carrier beam above the bolt, allowing for air circulation, and reducing the likelihood of rot.

    Icehouse Deck Girder Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)
    Icehouse Deck Girder Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)

    In the photograph above the carrier beam has been installed and secured to the base/bracket.

    Icehouse Deck Girder Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)
    Icehouse Deck Girder Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)

    All of the beams have been cut to size and laid out for alignment, leveling, and installation.

    Icehouse Deck Girder Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)
    Icehouse Deck Girder Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)

    While Garrett (background) secures carrier beams, Tony (foreground) heats the wood to facilitate installation of adhesive flashing that will isolate joists from beams and — most importantly given our weather extremes along the Adirondack Coat — will reduce the deleterious effects of moisture, snow, and ice in the coming years.

    Carrier Beam Installation Mashup

    In the spirit of previous progress reports, here’s a quick zip through the day’s carrier beam installation.

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/ClSVKTggyQt/

  • Icehouse Rehab 5.5: Helical Piers

    Icehouse Rehab 5.5: Helical Piers

    Helical Piers Arrive (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)
    Helical Piers Arrive (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)

    Another important accomplishment this week: helical piers were installed for the new icehouse decks. I was particularly impressed with the efficiency and precision of the helical pier installation by Bob Kaleita, Phil Valachovic, and Sonny Valachovic. Skillful operation!

    Helical Piers Ready for Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)
    Helical Piers Ready for Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)

    Earth Anchoring with Helical Piers

    I learned about “earth anchoring” with helical piers (aka helical piles) some years ago when looking at real estate in Santa Fe. This technique for securing (and re-securing if settling, erosion, etc. has undermined structural integrity) foundations, footings, etc. with *giant corkscrews* piqued my interest. I’ll publish a follow-up post, explaining in greater detail the concept and utility, as well as why we opted for this alternative to precast or poured concrete footings. For now let’s just appreciate the significant leap forward!

    Helical Pier Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)
    Helical Pier Installation (Photo: Hroth Ottosen)

    Video Mashup of Helical Pier Installation

    If you prefer a quick zip through, then this video mashup is for you.

    https://www.instagram.com/reel/Ck7SpTFAKqe/

     

    Hat tip to Bob, Phil, Sonny, and Earth Anchoring Suppliers.