Mar 24 2015
Crittenton Hospital Medical Center in Rochester, MN, has selected AZEK Pavers, a recycled alternative to heavy brick or concrete pavers, to renovate an outdoor cafeteria patio. Used by 75 hospital employees and visitors each day, the 30 year old rooftop space was hard to maintain, resulting in crumbling brick pavers and cracked concrete.
The project was funded by the Crittenton Hospital Medical Center Employee Unlimited Potential (UP) group, who were excited about the opportunity to take part in improving the patio.
"Our goal was to improve the look of the patio for the staff and visitors who use it, without adding weight to or otherwise damaging the roof itself," explains Kathy Partrick, director of facilities for Crittenton Hospital Medical Center. "We were looking at options such as repairing the existing concrete and bricks, or tearing it all out and replacing with concrete pavers, when AZEK Pavers were brought to our attention."
Sean Bell, owner of Zenco Construction, recommended AZEK Pavers for several reasons. He cited the green aspect of the pavers, the ability to install the pavers over the existing product which eliminated costly removal of the old materials, and the pavers' lighter weight being ideal for the rooftop installation as three primary benefits. Additionally, the stain- and scratch-resistant, low-maintenance pavers stand up to harsh weather and freezing temperatures without heaving or cracking.
"The pavers are also a cleaner product that were easier to transport through the hospital, and they create less noise and odor during installation compared to concrete pavers. They were the optimal choice," explained Bell.
For this project, he recommended AZEK Standard Pavers. This provided the extra height needed to eliminate existing access ramps at entrance points to the terrace without creating too much slope in any given area.
"There is now zero incline, so we improved overall accessibility," says Partrick.
The Unlimited Potential group selected the color of the pavers and also purchased new tables and benches for the space. The patio was renamed the Crittenton Terrace and a grand opening event was held that included free ice cream, popcorn and a raffle.
"It was a real "feel-good" project because it improved a space that had become difficult to maintain and unappealing to use, and the employees were able to lead the effort to create an area they can really enjoy," says Partrick.
To learn more about AZEK Pavers, visit http://www.azek.com/products/pavers
Source: http://www.azek.com/