To achieve such high standards, the architects and planners first decided on what exterior material to use that was equally appealing and durable at the same time. After much contemplation, the architects and planners determined that the Wellington Condominium’s building façade was to consist of predominately a stylish brick and elegant cast stone exterior veneer. The transitions of façade materials are central to creating a pleasing environment with future homeowners. The cast stone veneer is primarily situated on the first floor building façade, is utilized around windows and doors as pre cast headers, and serves as a pre cast band and trim linking the transitions of façade materials. From the first floor to the upper floors the elegantly placed cast stone veneer serenely evolves into a modish and colorful brick. The brick façade continues up to the roof line where it is met by a 1 x 12 Azek Trim Board with Fypon BKT8X8x4 décor. Also scattered across the building façade is pre cast medallions and ornamentation to give the condominiums a refined and polished look.

The type of connection for the masonry is typical among the construction industry. The system that holds the façade and interior walls together is 22 gauge galvanized metal ties. The specifications call for the following list of items to be completed for the correct installation of anchoring masonry veneers:

1. Insert slip-in anchors in metal studs as sheathing is installed. Provide one anchor at each stud in each horizontal joint between sheathing boards.
2. Embed tie sections in masonry joints. Provide not less than 2 inches of air space between back of masonry veneer and face of sheathing.
3. Locate anchor sections to allow maximum vertical differential movement of ties up and down.
4. Space anchors by no more than 16” o.c. vertically and 24” o.c. horizontally with not less than 1 anchor for each 2.67 sq. ft. of wall area. Install additional anchors within 12” of openings and at intervals, not exceeding 36”, around perimeter.

With all the early delays on the project it has pushed construction of the building façade to the winter months of 2006. This creates huge logistical issues to how to construct the building façade and keep on schedule. Sometimes the winter months can be tough in Pennsylvania therefore proper weather days accounted for cannot be overlooked. With that in mind, the scaffolding at this current time is through the use of a typical metal modular frame scaffolding system. This system is very easy to assemble and light to handle. This system if done in the winter would have to be protected from the winter elements and provide a proper work place for all construction workers. Decreased productivity will result if the scaffolding operation is not properly planned for in the winter months.