'Assembly of precast concrete elements is specialized work'

Kuijpers Uitvoering & Advies anchors and assembles this structure on behalf of Smits Vastgoedzorg.

"The intended aesthetic appearance of the facades, combined with improving the balcony and gallery construction, called for a specific application of precast elements in architectural concrete," explains director Jeroen Kuijpers of Kuijpers Execution & Advice. "The assembly of these is specialist work. Smits Vastgoedzorg asked us in the engineering phase of the project to help think about this."

Vacuum lifting technology

Kuijpers continues, "In close consultation with Smits Vastgoedzorg, A3 Architects and IMd Raadgevende Ingenieurs, we fleshed out the method of hoisting and assembly, taking into account the aesthetic starting points. For example, when hoisting the prefab concrete elements, we use a vacuum hoisting technique. This requires no lifting points, which means fewer repair spots."

'We also take care that the elements can be safely assembled'

Safety first

For Kuijpers Uitvoering & Advies, it is important to be involved in the engineering of the architectural precast elements. Kuijpers explains, "We not only think along technically and aesthetically, but also make sure that the elements can be assembled safely. Naturally, we also take the necessary safety measures during assembly. And because we do everything under our own management, we can guarantee this safety. Our equipment and our well-trained, qualified people meet all standards and certifications."

Residents

"Another safety aspect concerns working in an inhabited situation," Kuijpers continues. "Especially on the galleries, where residents have to be when they go to or from their homes, we pay attention to this. Our guys prevent unsafe situations from arising, they work neatly and are friendly to residents. Moreover, in accordance with corona measures, they all wear a mouth mask."

Good team

Kuijpers Execution & Consulting started the anchoring and assembly of the precast elements in November. The first apartment is now completed and satisfactory. Kuijpers: "The cooperation with Smits Vastgoedzorg is open and transparent. That works well. Also with Lammers Beton, the producer of the architectural precast elements, we form a good team. The points for improvement that we gained with the first apartment, we immediately apply to the next phase. Thus, the residents of flat two and three will experience a little less inconvenience still."