One of the exciting aspects of our work in exterior restoration is the challenge of being at the forefront in the use of new materials and technologies in the preservation of existing structures. In a recent example, SUPERSTRUCTURES was the first firm in New York City to specify Vacuum Insulated Panel (VIP) insulation in a re-roofing project. New NYC energy code requirements stipulate a minimum continuous insulation of R-30 value on the entire roof deck. Using conventional insulation to achieve this value can raise roof heights to a problematic level in relation to adjacent building components such as mechanical equipment, parapets and skylights.

Solar power is the wave of the future of energy, all over the world.  SUPERSTRUCTURES is excited to report that we’re now part of this growing trend, having designed the roof now supporting the city’s largest solar panel array, at the Borough of Manhattan Community College.

Because we’re proud of what we do at SUPERSTRUCTURES and because we believe exterior restoration work is important, we started an in-house seminar series in 2003.

And that’s a wrap!  Our two-year façade project at 404 Lafayette Street and 708 Broadway is complete.  It was an honor to work on these historic buildings, constructed in the 1890s.  Designed by Cleverdon and Putzel, these heritage structures are adjacent to one another, connected for internal access in 1912.

A recent article by a fellow practitioner paints the sidewalk vaults of New York City as lurking hazards lying in wait, ready to swallow up unsuspecting cars or pedestrians. (We exaggerate, but only slightly.)

This Wall Street Journal article discusses the deferred maintenance dilemma affecting many U.S. colleges. At SUPERSTRUCTURES, we’re assisting NYC colleges prioritize and judiciously deploy funds for building envelope projects. We’re working with Columbia, NYU, Fordham, and each of the 24 campuses of the City University of New York.

Alternative to facade inspection by drone - awaiting approval from NYC DOB and ASPCA. ASTM standard to follow.

Based on our extensive exterior restoration experience with the NYC School Construction Authority (SCA), SUPERSTRUCTURES was invited to participate at an AIA NY program titled “Rehabilitating New York’s Historic Schools.”

The Department of Buildings recently published a link updating the public on metrics concerning Facade Inspection Safety Report results and sidewalk shed projects throughout New York City.

When situations require, SUPERSTRUCTURES uses exploratory probes to further our understanding of a building or structure, and the problems or conditions which may exist within. Our method of deploying probes, with the aid of our NDT&E equipment, minimizes their cost and impact.