Imported Piping to Be Removed; School Board Backs Architects

By Dave Freneaux

    PBK Architects, upon discovering that hydronic piping installed in the new school complex did not meet specifications, has instructed the contractor to remove the non-conforming pipe.  The cost to remove the imported pipe is estimated to be in excess of $300,000, but that is an expense the School System should not have to pay according to PBK.  The School System's Construction Coordinator Ross Bogan estimates that completion of the schools may be delayed approximately six weeks, which should not delay the opening of the schools next August.

    The problem arose when it was discovered that imported steel pipe was used instead of domestic, which was called for in the bid specifications.  Approximately 60% of the piping, which is used in the air conditioning systems, has already been installed and will have to be removed.  New pipe meeting the bid specifications is scheduled to arrive next week.  The supplier of the pipe has explained that this was an error due to a misreading of the specifications.  The School System was offered a $150,000 credit on the job as well as an extended warranty period if the imported pipe were left in place.  The School Board took no action on the matter, meaning that the decision of PBK Architects to require removal of the imported pipe will stand.