Project Overview
The McCorkle Aquatic Pavilion is a low-rise structure that is part of the Recreation and Physical Activities Center (RPAC), replacing Larkins Hall on The Ohio State University (OSU) campus. The aquatic pavilion contains five pools and two spas divided between a Recreation Natatorium and a Competition Natatorium. The pools are constructed with a cast-in-place concrete shell and ceramic tile finishes. The ceramic tiles were typically one inch square and primarly white. Black and blue colored tiles were used for the lane markers and other features.
Approach
Shortly after construction, delaminated tiles were observed in some of the pools. As a result, repairs have been performed periodically to repair the loose tiles since construction, including a complete removal and replacement of the tiles in some areas. However, delamination of the tiles continues to be an ongoing problem. The design-build team of Berglund Construction and Wiss, Janney, Elstner Associates, Inc. had been retained to investigate the failures, recommend materials and procedures for replacement of the pool tiles, and ultimately perform the replacement of the tiles in all of the pools.
Outcomes
This project had a preconstruction phase, with a combination of laboratory testing of materials, mock-ups utilizing various repair materials and techniques and evaluation of previous repair attempts were underway.