Masonry Magazine January 1975 Page.26
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architect in making important, yet insignificant changes from a design standpoint, that enabled all concerned to get the most for their money out of masonry. MCAA suggests this teamwork approach between architect and mason contractor, for over the years qualified mason contractors and union craftsmen have found many simple, yet extremely important ways of avoiding extensive cutting of masonry and inefficient use of masonry materials and manpower. In all cases, MCAA believes that this information should be shared with the architect and structural engineer early enough so that it can be used.
Edgewater Tower is unique, too, in that it represents the rare case where a mason contractor-John M. Civitillo, Inc. was responsible for constructing the entire superstructure after footings and foundations had been put in by the General Contractor, Dwight Building Co., of Hamden, Connecticut. The Mason Contractor's bid for the superstructure work, including precast concrete floors, stairs, balconies, and interior and exterior loadbearing masonry walls was $1,152,400.00.
The key to success of any loadbearing masonry job is planning and scheduling of manpower and materials, so that a production line system is established. In the case of Edgewater Tower, 16-well-trained masons and 12 laborers, were scheduled on an average day. When they completed one half of the interior and exterior walls on a floor, the 2 ft. x 12 ft. Celdex precast-concrete floor planks were immediately set atop the interior loadbearing masonry walls. As this occurred, the masonry craftsmen were already at work building interior and exterior walls on the other half of that 13,270 sq. ft. floor.
All split-block needed for the 12-story high rise were produced ahead of the job. Other concrete masonry units were kept in abundant supply at the job site at least two trailer loads at all times, or enough for all walls on one floor. Great care was also exercised by the mason con-
Above-The various types of concrete masonry used in the structure are shown in this photo. Split-ribbed, ground faced, regular and the block floor system.
Left-Edgewater Towers from the shore gives an almost solid appearance. This method of construction provides substantial sound isolation from apartment to apartment and from the outside.
masonry
• Nov./Dec., 1975