gathered together

THE BASE's individual buildings are constructed using substantial structural precast concrete panels. Chosen for longevity, a large percentage of these were manufactured on site and installed by Creteworks Precast Services, a division of GMC.

"The individual slabs, some around 12m by 3m in size, with grid-like reinforcing steel running through them, are cast on metal beds before being transported to their specific site and craned into place," says Creteworks director Gary Murphy. "From here they are either secured in place by heavy props, or bolted or welded to steel structures already in place."

With many of the panels weighing around 12 tonnes, this was clearly a large-scale job.

"Considering the construction program, weather conditions during the winter months and the panel quantities, we were hard at it to ensure everything was finished on time and to Naylor Love's total satisfaction. However, the entire project ran smoothly, with Creteworks Precast Services and project management making the odd design tweak to create an effective outcome," says Murphy. "Because the manufacturing was on site, last minute variations were always an option. While forming part of a large scale development, The Base was a typical project for us."

Creteworks Precast works on a range of modest and upscale developments throughout the region, including a recently completed large commercial office development with Hawkins Construction, also in the Waikato.

For details, contact Creteworks Precast Services, 101 Colombo St, Hamilton, phone (07) 848 1715, fax (07) 848 1718. Email: gmcltd@xtra.co.nz.

Story by: Trendsideas