By Jeremiah Vanderlaan:
A parking structure is not just a place to store cars. It is a long-term infrastructure asset exposed to water, chlorides, freeze-thaw cycles, vehicle loads, and daily traffic.
The construction method chosen affects:
- capital cost;
- construction schedule;
- maintenance cost;
- repair downtime;
- user safety;
- lighting and sightlines;
- future expansion;
- long-term asset value.
There are three main construction methods for parking structures:
- Cast-in-place Concrete
- UHPC Panel-and-Beam
- Precast Double-tee.
Cast-in-place concrete is the traditional approach. It can handle complex shapes, ramps, transfers, and irregular sites. It gives designers flexibility, but depends on weather, site labor, forming, curing, waterproofing, and quality control.
UHPC panel-and-beam is a prefabricated method that uses UHPC deck panels supported by steel beams. The panels form the driving surface, while the beams and columns create the primary spanning structure. Galvanized steel framing, grouted joints, and repeatable components can create an open-span parking structure. The method is popular in Europe and beneficial where water, chlorides, freeze-thaw exposure, salty sea breeze and deck maintenance are major considerations. Owners should still evaluate if this approach is appropriate for their project.
Precast double tee construction is a well-established precast concrete option. It can span efficiently, reduce on-site forming, and is familiar to designers, contractors, and consultants. Owners should still pay attention to joint protection, drainage, toppings or membranes, clear heights, and maintenance planning.
Each method can work well when it fits the site, budget, exposure conditions, and maintenance plan.
The goal is not to choose the most familiar method by default. The goal is to choose the method that performs best for the project.
That is where design-build can help. This allows teams to present the best design and construction method for the unique variables of the project.
Jeremiah Vanderlaan is in Business Development for Kiwi Newton. Jeremiah can be reached at jvanderlaan@kiwinewton.com.
Forum Question: What factors should owners consider when selecting a construction method for a parking structure?