Project Strategy

The project is in the heart of OSU's 570-acre main campus in Corvallis, Oregon. The City of Corvallis consistently ranks among the safest and greenest small cities in the nation.
Hovland Hall was constructed in 1919 as the Horticultural Products Building. Hovland was expanded in 1923 and housed the Food Technology Department.
Some site specific challenges were that the space originally used as a Food Processing Facility had multiple trench drains running the full length of the building. The project was changing the present use to wet-lab space for the Biological and Ecological Engineering program. Improvements included a full renovation of all finishes, interior concrete, cabinetry, wire shelving, mobile worktables, sinks, HVAC, and work-stations with exhaust & plumbing.
The existing concrete substrate was the major issue. The existing substrate had elevation changes from 0 to 3.5" in spans under 6' and massive damage throughout.
A previous renovation had incorporated a self-leveling product that was not installed properly. It was not properly bonded to the existing slab among other things. This lack of bonding was not captured in the bid documents, once discovered it had to be addressed so a fast track/time sensitive change order was issued so the construction schedule timeline could still be met. The Owner and General Contractor relied on our expertise to provide and implement a course of action to keep this project on schedule and budget.

Unique Installation Challenge Strategy

Removal of existing failed products was difficult and time consuming.
Proper preparation of the substrate was critical.
Logistically, delivery of 25,000 lbs of self-leveler to the center of the busy campus was a challenging task.
Extra special attention to every detail for everyone's safety involved.
Stringent environment controls were in place to mitigate pollutants of air, water or hazardous waste.
Dust control was used at all times and cleanout stations were set up to address concrete clean up requirements.
End result is a very nice finished floor but the photo sequence should tell the story of what appeared to be a simple install flooring project that turned into a unique and special project that will remain in our proud memories for the years to come. Faculty and students will soon occupy the space and have no idea of the efforts required to just make this a typical floor.