The Efficient Strategy of Building Up NYC Skyscr****s: Windows and Infrastructure

The Advantages of Building Upwards with Unfinished Bases

When it comes to constructing skyscr****s in New York City, the strategy of building up with unfinished bases has become increasingly popular. This approach offers several advantages in terms of scheduling, cost, and efficiency. In this article, we will explore why buildings in NYC continue to be built up with windows and infrastructure while the base remains unfinished.

As the construction of a high-rise building progresses, finish materials are loaded in through the open facade and protected with glazing or cladding using cranes. This vertical transportation system is the primary schedule driver for high-rise construction, ensuring that materials are delivered to the upper floors efficiently.

Interestingly, the lower floors of most buildings are often the last to be finished. This is because these floors often contain tenant improvement spaces such as restaurants and retail areas. These spaces require specific design elements and customization, which can take longer to complete compared to the upper floors.

Moreover, the lower floors also tend to contain the most expensive materials with longer lead times. By completing the upper floors first, construction teams can focus on the more time-consuming aspects of the project while waiting for the delivery of these materials.

One of the key reasons for building upwards and finishing windows before completing the base is the efficient storage of glazing and spandrel panels. These materials can be stored in place, reducing the need for additional off-site storage facilities and streamlining the construction process.

Additionally, having a finished outer shell, including windows, is crucial for both aesthetic and safety reasons. It provides a barrier between ongoing work and the open air, ensuring the safety of workers and protecting the building from potential damage.

The sequencing of construction is heavily influenced by the availability of vertical transportation, such as cranes and hoists. To maintain efficiency and avoid losing time and money, cranes should always be moving materials up or down the building.

The completion of the base is determined by when it is structurally complete and able to support the upper floors. Leaving the lower floors unfinished allows for hoisting materials through them and using them as staging areas for further construction.

The ground floor, often the last thing to be finished, can serve as a decorative lobby space or commercial retail area. By delaying its completion, construction crews can focus on the upper floors while still allowing for the installation of necessary infrastructure.

Non-structural curtain walls, such as windows, are usually installed to enclose the basic envelope of the building before starting interior work. This step is necessary to protect the interior from weather conditions that may affect the progress of the construction.

To expedite the completion of the project, construction crews often work simultaneously on different parts of the building. This parallel construction approach allows for a more efficient use of resources and reduces the overall construction timeline.

It's important to note that buildings are often started before all tenants are known. Therefore, the design and finishes of certain areas may depend on the specific tenant's needs. This flexibility allows for customization and ensures that the building meets the requirements of future occupants.

Lastly, to ensure the safety of pedestrians during the construction process, protective scaffolding is often used. This prevents facade pieces from falling off buildings and causing harm. In cases where buildings need to bring their facades up to code, protective pathways are constructed to ensure the safety of pedestrians.

the strategy of building up with unfinished bases has proven to be an efficient and cost-effective approach in NYC's skyscr**** construction. By prioritizing the completion of upper floors and windows, construction teams can streamline the process, optimize scheduling, and ensure the safety of workers and pedestrians.