DCPL Southwest Neighborhood Library

DCPL Southwest Neighborhood Library Project

Our team had the opportunity to update the main staircase in the award-winning, LEED Platinum Southwest Library. Despite being just two years old, the stairs were excessively dirty and resistant to cleaning. The pre-cast concrete, being porous, absorbed dirt, spilled liquids, and other substances, resulting in persistent stains. The client aimed to restore the stairs to their initial vibrant appearance and sought a surface that would be more manageable to clean and maintain.

https://www.archdaily.com/975792/dcpl-southwest-neighborhood-library-perkins-and-will

CHALLENGES:

There were multiple on-site meetings with the owner (DC Public Libraries), the Architect (Perkins and Will) and the General Contractor (Turner Construction). A mock-up was completed with tinted epoxy that was not well received. The stakeholders decided to grind the concrete and apply a clear epoxy. The work was all night-hours. The first two nights included covering the space with a plastic tent and grinding the epoxy to remove the stained/dirty concrete. The third night involved applying a UV-Resistant Epoxy to create a smooth and flat surface that is not porous, and the fourth night was for applying an Aliphatic Urethane topcoat to provide scratch and stain resistance.

CONDITIONS:

Concrete – Pre-cast concrete, that was then covered in an epoxy finish.

PROJECT INVOLVEMENT:

Epoxy Flooring – A clear epoxy application was applied to the staircase.
- UV Resistant Epoxy – For a smooth, flat finish.
- Aliphatic Urethan Topcoat – For scratch and stain resistance.
Concrete Grinding

SPECIAL CHALLENGES:

Implementing dust control measures, collaborating with various decision-makers, and executing precise concrete grinding on the stairs were essential steps to ensure a uniform and level final color, all while avoiding any gouging or marks from the grinder.

PROJECT TIMELINE – 4 Days