FedEx® Ground Distribution Center
Situation:
In order to keep up with its rapidly expanding small-package ground delivery service, FedEx Ground Package System, Inc. planned to develop a new distribution facility in San Jose, Calif. FedEx Ground leased a 105,600 square foot space in an existing 195,900 square foot building, originally constructed in 1973.
FedEx planned a major renovation of the space in order to set up state-of-the-art operations which would streamline pickup and distribution of packages in the San Jose area. FedEx Ground is leasing this space from an affiliate of San Jose-based Barry Swenson Builder, who acted as both developer and contractor for the project.
During the renovation's demolition phase, the contractor discovered that the roof structure looked rough and unsightly. Barry Swenson Builder's vice president of construction, Ron Coté, evaluated its appearance and suggested to FedEx Ground the possibility of creating an attractive, new roof. Coté suggested an all-white insulation to match the white interior walls and to give the facility a larger, brighter appearance.
Solution:
FedEx Ground agreed to an all-white insulation product, and Barry Swenson Builder subcontracted the installation to San Jose-based Central California Insulation, a 30-year loyal customer of Johns Manville. Central California Insulation used Johns Manville Formaldehyde-free™ fiber glass insulation with PSK facing (a white facing that complements the R-19 insulation product), and installed the product under a 30-foot clear height roof deck.
Because the white roof insulation would be visible, the development team suggested painting the exposed roof's structural wood framing members with white paint to provide a close match to the Johns Manville's white polypropylene facing.
Results:
FedEx Ground's distribution facility is considered a success by those involved with the development. FedEx Ground employees and independent contractors have the added assurance of knowing that concerns about formaldehyde emissions are reduced because the fiber glass insulation contains a nontoxic acrylic binder instead of formaldehyde. The all-white interior also creates a more appealing work environment because of the superior light reflectance and brighter, more pleasant atmosphere.
Both Barry Swenson Builder and FedEx Ground's project team are satisfied with the results of their decision, especially given the added peace of mind by using a formaldehyde-free product that's better for the indoor air environment.
In this case, there are benefits to everyone involved, both during construction and after the facility is complete. Additionally, the all-white exposed roof deck, with matching white walls, provided an aesthetically pleasing interior making this installation an appealing option for projects with similar specifications and needs.
