Project Description

Based on previous fiber reinforcement experiences, project specifiers felt fibers offered the best opportunity to minimize joints and cracking on the high-profile gallery floor. While the results speak for themselves, the FORTA-FERRO® succeeded in controlling shrinkage, cracking, and curling in the large and irregularly shaped joint-free floor sections. The final floor finish was impressive enough to cause concern by museum curators that the floor might actually divert attention from the gallery exhibitions. The floor system included a 1-1/2″ thick fiber reinforced mud matt required due to poor sub-grade conditions, and topped with a 5″ thick concrete floor separated by a double slip-sheet to allow for possible movement. The floor was comprised of a 3,000 psi high-performance exposed-aggregate concrete, that involved a 5-step grind-and-polish process.

Update

The green-practice project has been awarded the Gold Level LEED certification for its green design and sustainable building operation. The Erie Art Museum is Erie’s first LEED certified building and is setting an example of construction sustainability by achieving such a high scoring certification.