Ithaca, NY

Cornell University, Veterinary Research Tower

Scope/Solutions

The Veterinary Research Tower is a nine-story structure that was built in the 1970s, and is clad with brick veneer and curtain walls. The walls were constructed without insulation or air barriers and single-pane windows and curtain walls. Cornell University commissioned a whole building condition assessment and design concepts for making code upgrades, improving energy efficiency, and addressing other maintenance. SGH assisted the architect by assessing the building enclosure’s condition and recommending repair options.

Highlights of our work include the following:

  • Conducting a facade and roof condition assessment using conventional and rope access techniques
  • Performing water testing and making observations at exploratory openings
  • Recommending repairs and maintenance for the windows, roofs, and facade
  • Evaluating the effects of adding insulation to the brick veneer walls both from the interior and exterior using transient moisture vapor drive analysis
  • Collaborating with the architect and MEP designer on whole building energy analyses by providing anticipated u-factors for both existing and proposed building enclosure components

Project Summary

Icon: completion-date

2010

Completion Date
Icon: construction-value

5M

Construction Value
Solutions
Repair & Rehabilitation | Preservation
Services
Building Enclosures | Performance & Code Consulting | Applied Science & Research
Markets
Education
Client(s)
Anshen + Allen
Specialized Capabilities
Condition Assessments | Preservation | Energy & Sustainability | Environmental Simulations

Key team members

Susan Knack-Brown
Managing Principal, Building Technology, Boston
617.963.5403 slknack@sgh.com
View Bio
Peter Nelson
Senior Principal
781.907.9204 penelson@sgh.com

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Northeast

University of Massachusetts, Isenberg School of Management

With its new addition, the Isenberg School of Management consolidates departments and encourages collaboration. SGH consulted on the building enclosure design and performed a structural peer review for the project.
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