The Design/Build Review: A Little Heavy Lifting

Heavy Lifting Article Top ImageWhen you find yourself with a pretty big problem, you’re going to need some pretty big tools
and people with the right know-how to fix it. That is exactly what happened when Janotta &
Herner was contacted to move and replace an 83,000 pound, wooden pedestrian bridge that
was failing. The Client wanted to replace the 150′ clear span bridge with a steel structure,
which would be more resistant to weathering.

Aided by Poggemeyer Engineering out of Bowling Green, Janotta & Herner was able to
determine that the most efficient way to replace this bridge would be doing so in one piece.
Lifting a structure this big would require some really big tools, which is why Janotta & Herner
called ALL Crane to bring their 600-ton crane to the jobsite.

This 600 ton crane, one of the largest on the East Coast, traveled with an entourage of 19
semis and required another smaller crane to assemble it once it reached the jobsite. The 155
feet of boom length and 30,000 pounds of rigging could be seen for miles around. After three
days of set up and weather delays, everything was in place and set for the big lift.

In less than 10 minutes from start to finish, the old bridge was lifted from its place and
secured on the ground. Our crews then went to work to make necessary changes to the
existing abutments so that they would accept the new bridge. By the end of the day, the new
bridge was lifted and secured in place and soon after the bridge was open for use. This
project presented a unique problem that required a great deal of planning to solve, but our
team enjoys the thrill. Taking the big problems and turning them into easy solutions is just
another example of why our reputation is building.

Fall Fun

Heavy Lifting - Second ImageAt the JHI Group, we like to get involved in the communities that we serve. Whether it’s here in Monroeville, over in Medina, down in New London or anywhere in-between, we like to help out the local organizations that make these places great. This fall, we were able to pair up with the Sandusky State Theater and the North Coast Young Professionals to serve as a sponsor for NCYP’s Annual North Coast Oktoberfest.

We created and built this “Human Glockenspiel”, which featured hourly entertainment by the
State Theater and other organizations. The event featured various authentic food vendors,
musical acts and games that transformed downtown Sandusky into an authentic German
Village.

Pre-Winter Walk-Around

With winter right around the corner, it is important to make sure your existing facility is ready
to battle the elements. Take a look at our building maintenance checklist and make sure your
building is prepared for the long, cold months ahead.

Gutters and Downspouts

  • Keep your gutters clear of debris.
  • Make sure downspouts are in good condition, tightly connected and emptying into
    a storm water system or turned away from the buildings foundation.

Exterior Siding and Trim

  • Check for the siding and trim at the corners, roof edges and base of the wall to be fastened tightly and sealed to prevent water and snow (and hibernating insects) from getting inside your walls.

Brick, Masonry, and Stucco/EIFS Walls

  • These types of walls are designed to drain away any water that might get in the
    system. Make sure the base of the wall is kept clear of mulch and leaf/debris
    plies that would hold moisture in.
  • Check that all caulk joints are solid and not peeling or cracked.

Doors and Windows

  • Make sure gaskets are in good condition and that doors and windows are sealed
    tightly.
  • Check for gaps around garage/overhead doors. Even a small gap can let in a lot
    of cold winter air.
  • Are the caulk joints on the outside in good shape? This is one of the most
    common sources of water leakage in a typical building behind roof leakage.

Exterior Concrete

  • Check concrete for cracks or damage. When the ground freezes it can expand
    and push these broken areas up, causing a tripping hazard and can damage
    snow removal equipment.
  • How long has it been since you last applied concrete sealer? Applying sealer
    every few years helps concrete repel water and keeps salt from causing
    accelerated deterioration.

Why Work With JHI Group?

As a true Design/Build General Contractor, the JHI Group has an in-house team of registered design professionals consisting of Architects, Engineers and Designers. Their qualifications and years of experience will provide you with the highest level of quality in project design and innovation.

This Design Leadership Team, coupled with our staff of project managers, estimators, field supervisors, skilled tradesmen and support personnel, work in harmony to take your initial concept and turn it into a seamless building construction project that will exceed your expectations.

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