Construction Update - February 1, 2025
Work has continued at a slower pace since the last update. The roofers were able to install the decking for the roof (that is the metal sheeting that forms the flat surface), insulation on top of the decking, and a weather shield. They are unable to install the shingles until the brick for the exterior walls is completed. A portable gas furnace is providing temporary heat to the chapel space to prevent the marble columns from freezing.
Here is a shot of the iron workers installing the segmented roof over the main apse:
A view of the underside of that same roof from the sanctuary:
Meanwhile throughout the winter the mechanical contractor has been working on installing the permanent boilers, piping, and associated equipment.
This is the foundation for the altar and altar platform. This is the highest portion of the main nave, a fitting honor for the place of sacrifice.
Pouring the floor
Looking now at the nave itself, these are not the intended furnishings. The workmen are setting the proper height of the sand bed for the floor. There was much sand to move and mechanical help made the job much easier.
After setting the sand bed, thick blue plastic is laid down as a moisture barrier. Atop of that is a layer of insulation.
On top of the insulation is attached the white plastic piping which will run hot water under the floor for heating in the winter. In floor heat is a very efficient method of heating since the entire concrete floor is heated and acts as a thermal battery.
More sand is then used to cover the piping. A metal wire mesh is laid out to give structural rigidity to the concrete.
Concrete is poured and finished. Eventually tile will be laid on top of the concrete.
