BUILDING NEWS: Renovation Update May 2014 - Boxing In
Dig, dig, dig! Since we'll be using the original in-ground poles, that support the entire structure of 10 Horse Art Center, they need to be encased in concrete for strength, durability and longevity. Not an easy task for a building over 50 years old! Using a machine, and even shovels, footings are dug around the existing poles.
The next step is to build "forms," basically empty square boxes, that are placed around each existing pole. Project manager Justin built all the forms by hand!
10 Horse Art Center has over 90 original poles so that is a lot of forms to build!
In order to protect the antique poles from water damage (both from the ground and the newly poured concrete) each one is carefully painted with a black, waterproof liquid which acts as a protective membrane.
Once all the poles have been waterproofed it's time to pour the concrete. All the interior poles had their concrete mixed and poured by hand since it was too difficult to get a concrete truck inside the building.
After the concrete sets and dries the forms are removed to reveal a much stronger support system for the building!