GFRC Panels Case Study: Dry Creek Elementary School
Dry Creek Elementary School is a new school in Lehi, UT, opened in August, 2014.
The Architect for the project, Sandstorm Architecture, wanted to create an experience that would blend with the Lehi township cultural backdrop and lifestyle.
The architect had specified GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) for the high elevation cladding and school name signage. The requirement was to keep the panels flush in line with the brick veneer façade. Sandstorm Architecture requested specific custom color for panels to blend seamlessly with the overall design vision for the school.
The Mesa Precast team designed the panels using the drawings from the architect. The team worked closely with the architect to review, and validate the fabrication details. Support locations for anchorage were also confirmed to confirm structural requirements. Mesa Precast recommended a few changes to the details to simplify the installation of the panels.
The team has a proven track record to custom fabricate GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) panels for a wide range of exterior cladding, veneer applications. Below are some examples on why GFRC panels where used for the project:
1) Panels fit together to create the monolithic look that was critical for the success of the project.
2) Light weight panels allow for easy installation on the front entry elevation of the school.
3) Very high strength to weight ratio compared to any other cast stone manufactured product.
4) Flexible and superior for precise lettering that is required for name of the school on the panels.
5) Blended seamlessly with exterior of the school.
6) Not only cut down required structural support, but also simplified the installation.
7) Provided long-term, reliable solution for the school building project.
8) Is much more durable compared to stucco or EIFS.
Architects Rendering of Dry Creek Elementary School | Initially name of the school was West Lehi Elementary School
GFRC (Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete) Panels
The Mesa Precast GFRC panels are only ¾” thick, and so very light in weight. At the same time with fibers in the cast mix and highly specialized manufacturing technology, the panels have high strength to weight ratio. Mesa Precast is able to custom design and fabricate the panels in any required shape and color.