We’re constructing the podium deck for an apartment building in Los Angeles. It’s a major construction milestone, so I thought diving into the specifics of how it gets done will be helpful for everybody. Each phase is critical, and I’m here to explain the intricacies of the tasks.

Step 1: Slab Completion

The slab is a foundational element designed for stability and load bearing capacity to support the future structure’s weight and subsequent construction phases.

Step 2: Temporary Shoring and Sheeting

Shoring is the support that holds the deck up during construction. It’s only temporary and will be removed after the deck is poured. The sheeting acts as the base upon which concrete is poured; it is laid across the shoring and concrete columns to create a mold for the deck. This is essential for maintaining the shape and integrity of the poured concrete as it sets and cures, and it provides a base for our crew to work and manuever around.

Step 3: Framer snapping

Once our shoring and sheeting are securely in place, framers come in to “snap” or mark out the layout for the deck and all the walls.

Step 4: Plumber Cans

Plumbing integration begins with the positioning of plumber cans. These are placeholders for plumbing lines and fixtures that need to be encased in the concrete.

Step 5: Rebar Bottom Layers

The strength of the deck relies heavily on the rebar, the steel reinforement placed within the conrete. Bottom layers of rebar are arranged first.

Step 6: Electrician’s Conduits

Electrical conduits are then embedded within the podium deck. These will house the electrical wiring

Step 7: Rebar Top Layers

The top layers of rebar are then added, which will help reinforce the concrete deck. This double layer of steel is essential for structural integrity

Step 8: Anchor Bolts and Depressions

Anchor bolts are installed to secure the verticial elements to the deck. Depressions in the concrete are made to allow for various installations.

Step 9: Inspections and Final Prep

A deputy inspector and engineer will review and certify everything, followed by a city inspector to ensure compliance with all building codes and verifies that we are ready to pour concrete

Step 10: Pour Concrete

Major milestone achieved!
We intend to complete all of this work in a one month period. Wish us luck!

Reminder that we’re a full service general contractor and land use consultant. If you or anybody in your network needs a GC or help with entitlement work, let me know! We’re building 500+ units as a GC and entitling 3,000+ units in the City of Los Angeles.