Main Contractor for Southland Boys' High School - Pearce Block Steel Window Replacement

During planning for the Block A major roof replacement in 2023, it was identified that the north-side steel windows were in significant disrepair. The school had intended to carry out cyclical maintenance painting while scaffolding was in place for the roof works. However, following investigations and a subsequent Condition Assessment Report it was confirmed that many of the steel frames had degraded to such an extent that steel had delaminated, resulting in failure to operate, poor weathertightness, and reduced energy efficiency. As this is a listed historical building, Heritage New Zealand were engaged, who confirmed and validated the assessment findings, advising that in-situ repair was no longer viable. In consultation with Heritage NZ, agreement was reached to replace the existing units with aluminium-framed, double-glazed windows designed to replicate the original steel windows. To preserve the façade’s heritage character (Heritage NZ Class 2), the solution incorporates false set aluminium colonial bars to maintain the original appearance while providing durability, weathertightness, and compliance with New Zealand Building Code energy efficiency standards. This project is critical to prevent ongoing heat loss, moisture ingress, and consequential damage to the building fabric. In addition to the above it may be necessary to stage or phase the works to the façade in order to not or at least minimize intrusion into the schools’ activities as little as possible. The Contract Works required are: i. Demolition of existing steel framed windows ii. Installation of new aluminium framed windows iii. Making good interior and exterior surrounding plaster and linings The extent of the contract works area encompasses the entire northern façade of Pearce Block, excluding only the existing central, curved, aluminium framed joinery unit.