Exploring the Impeccable Design and Construction of the Pierce Aluminum Facility

Join Jake, Project Manager at Kent Design Build for a tour of the recently completed Pierce Aluminum facility.

As we step into the office area, the first thing that catches our attention is the sleek, polished concrete flooring. Beyond the office space lies the expansive warehouse, providing an open area of 60,000 square feet. To facilitate seamless truck operations, the warehouse incorporates convenient drive-through lanes. These lanes enable trucks to enter the building and conveniently unload their cargo with the assistance of the five shop cranes installed within.

To support the drive-through lanes, the flooring has been reinforced to accommodate the weight of an 18-wheeler truck. Additionally, the central area of the warehouse has been further strengthened to serve as a staging area for equipment. Thanks to the utilization of a Butler building, a remarkable 150 feet wide and 400 feet long space has been created, allowing for the installation of the cranes and their accompanying beams throughout the structure.

Moving on, we encounter the high lift sectional doors, expertly designed to cater to the needs of this industrial setting. A significant amount of effort was devoted to customizing racks, ensuring they provided ample clearance for the descending crane. Adjacent to these doors, we find the loading dock, designed to facilitate efficient loading and unloading operations. Equipped with a dock leveler, this area streamlines the flow of goods in and out of the facility.

The Pierce Aluminum project posed several challenges, one of which was managing the extensive earthwork required for the 15-acre site. Navigating such a vast piece of land amidst varying weather conditions necessitated the implementation of temporary and permanent drainage structures. These structures ensured smooth movement around the building and aided in the successful installation of the slab. The site encompasses three retention ponds, strategically designed to manage the drainage volume for the entire development. These ponds play a vital role in maintaining the site's sustainability and efficient water management practices.

Turning our attention to the exterior of the building, we discover a visually appealing combination of materials. A band of concrete masonry units (CMU) with a split-face finish provides a distinct aesthetic, complemented by a butler metal panel featuring a sleek trim piece. This combination creates a pleasing contrast and adds a touch of modernity to the overall design.

Throughout the project, safety remained a top priority. Extensive planning and collaboration took place during the initial stages, as pre-installation meetings were conducted with the safety team and subcontractors. These meetings ensured that comprehensive lift plans and proper tie-off points were established, guaranteeing a safe and successful project for all involved.