Tag Archive: construction

Tower Crane During Skyscraper Construction – Salt Lake City, Utah

January 28, 2025 0 Comments

Tower Crane During Skyscraper Construction - Salt Lake City, Utah

A closeup of a tower crane at a skyscraper construction site in Salt Lake City, Utah.

Tower cranes are a vital component in skyscraper construction, enabling the efficient lifting and positioning of heavy materials like steel beams, concrete, and large equipment. These cranes are typically mounted on a strong base or integrated into the building itself as construction progresses. Their tall vertical mast and long horizontal jib allow them to reach impressive heights and cover a wide radius, making them ideal for large-scale projects like skyscrapers. With a counterweight at the rear of the jib to balance heavy loads, tower cranes are engineered for stability and precision in demanding environments.

As the skyscraper rises, the tower crane often grows with it using a process called “climbing.” In this method, additional mast sections are inserted into the crane’s structure, allowing it to extend upward and keep pace with the building’s height. Operators, positioned in a cab high above or controlling remotely, rely on meticulous planning and coordination to ensure materials are delivered safely and efficiently to various floors. Once construction is complete, the crane is disassembled, typically in sections, and removed from the site. Tower cranes are essential in modern skyscraper construction, combining advanced engineering and technology to meet the challenges of building taller and more complex structures.

Skyscraper construction along Utah’s Wasatch Front, particularly in cities like Salt Lake City, Provo, and Ogden, reflects the region’s rapid growth and urbanization in recent years. Salt Lake City, in particular, has seen a surge in high-rise developments due to its booming economy, expanding tech industry, and increasing population. The construction of skyscrapers is reshaping the skyline, with projects like the 95 State at City Creek and the Astra Tower leading the way. Astra Tower, upon completion, is set to become Utah’s tallest building at over 450 feet, showcasing a blend of modern design and sustainability. These projects often combine residential, commercial, and mixed-use spaces, aiming to meet the demand for urban living and office space while promoting walkable, vibrant downtown areas.

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Survey Marking on Concrete – Salt Lake City – Utah

January 28, 2025 0 Comments

A survey marking on a concrete sidewalk in Salt Lake City, urging workers to proceed with caution, likely due to electrical utilities in the area. Salt Lake resides in the urban corridor known as the Wasatch Front that runs between Ogden and Payson.

Survey markings on pavement are temporary or semi-permanent symbols, lines, or indicators used by surveyors and utility workers to convey information about underground utilities, construction projects, or property boundaries. These markings are typically made using brightly colored spray paint, chalk, or flags to ensure visibility. Each color corresponds to a specific type of utility or purpose, following standardized color codes set by organizations like the American Public Works Association (APWA). For example, red indicates electrical lines, blue represents potable water, yellow marks gas or oil lines, and green highlights sewer or drainage lines. These markings are crucial for safety and precision in excavation and construction projects.

The markings help contractors, engineers, and workers avoid damaging underground infrastructure during construction or repair work. They may also indicate elevation points, property boundaries, or planned routes for utilities or structures. Surveyors use symbols like arrows, numbers, or letters to provide additional details about measurements, angles, or directions. It’s important to note that these markings are temporary and will fade over time or be removed after the project is completed. Observing these markings helps ensure projects proceed safely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of accidents or costly damage to critical utilities.

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Cracked Retaining Wall – Hillside Home – Salt Lake City, Utah

January 28, 2025 0 Comments

Cracked Retaining Wall - Hillside Home - Salt Lake City, Utah

A cracked retaining wall in a hillside neighborhood of Salt Lake City, Utah, along the benches of the Wasatch Mountains.

A cracked retaining wall on a residential hillside property can pose significant structural and safety concerns. Retaining walls are designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion, landslides, or property damage. Cracks in the wall may indicate underlying issues such as soil pressure exceeding the wall’s capacity, poor drainage causing hydrostatic pressure, or inadequate construction methods. If left unaddressed, the wall may fail, leading to soil movement, potential damage to the home or landscape, and increased risk of injury. leading to soil movement, potential damage to the home or landscape, and increased risk of injury. It can also lead to a much costlier repair in the future.

To remediate a cracked retaining wall, homeowners should first consult with a structural engineer or a professional contractor to assess the damage and identify the root cause. Common solutions include improving drainage systems, such as adding weep holes or French drains to reduce hydrostatic pressure. In some cases, wall reinforcement may be necessary using steel reinforcements, tiebacks, or geogrid materials. If the damage is extensive, partial or full reconstruction of the wall using higher-quality materials and proper engineering techniques may be required. Preventative maintenance, like regular inspections and ensuring proper drainage, can help avoid future issues and protect the integrity of the hillside home.

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