Historic renovation and preservation projects are rarely without surprises, and Sundt’s $9 million project to restore the University of Arizona’s Old Main building has been no exception. So far, one of the most challenging – and surprising – parts of the job occurred while the team was stabilizing the building’s second floor. Because the area will be used as a gathering and entertaining space, it has to be upgraded to withstand 100 pounds per square foot (psf) of pressure. (The old flooring was estimated to be just 40 psf). In order to achieve the higher rating, the old flooring was removed and new steel joists were added in between the existing wooden joists. While that work was taking place, the team made an interesting discovery.
“In between the old joists were pieces of wood that had writing on them, so we removed them and pieced them together,” said Sundt Senior Project Superintendent Dennis Manley. “It turns out that the original contractor, back in 1891, cut up his sign and used it in the construction of the floor. We have no idea why he did that – maybe he needed every bit of wood he could get his hands on. It was a fun discovery that the University was glad to learn about. And now they have the original sign to add to their collection of artifacts.”
Sundt’s scope of work includes stabilizing the perimeter stone wall (which lacks a foundation), resolving subterranean water infiltration, reinforcing the brick columns, reconstructing the second floor porch, stabilizing and leveling the second floor, replacing metal roof shingles, stabilizing the chimneys, and rebuilding the second floor interior for use as the office of the University president. Also included in the work are safety upgrades, installation of a new mechanical system, and replacement of the plumbing, lighting and electrical systems.
The university construction project will be complete this summer. More information can be found online at saveoldmain.org and on social media at #saveoldmain.