Topping off
From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia
 |
It has been suggested that this article or section be merged with Topping out. (Discuss) |
 |
This article is orphaned as few or no other articles link to it. Please help introduce links in articles on related topics. (February 2007) |
In large building construction, topping off is the placing of the piece of the structure that will form its highest elevation. The term may also refer to the overall completion of the building's structure. A topping off ceremony is usually held to commemorate the event.
Contents |
[edit] History
The practice of "topping off" a new building can be traced to the ancient Scandinavian religious practice of placing a tree on the top of a new building to appease the tree-dwelling spirits of their ancestors that had been displaced. The practice migrated to England with Scandinavian invaders and took root there.
[edit] Topping off ceremony
Today, a non-religious but formal ceremony is often held to commemorate this milestone in the construction of a building. All tradesman on the job usually join in the celebration as well as the supervisors, representatives of the architecture and engineering firms, the owner or representatives of the owning organization, donors, and any VIPs that are invited. The ceremony is often parlayed into a media event for public relations purposes.
While the ceremony itself has no standard agenda, it usually includes the placing of an evergreen tree upon the structure to symbolize growth and bring luck. State and national flags are often raised atop the structure. It usually takes place during lunch time and can include a catered meal and entertainment. Prior to the ceremony, anyone attending is allowed to sign the last piece of steel. The height of the ceremony takes place when the piece of steel is lifted into place and secured (although not completely.) Often, the final piece of steel has little or no structural significance to the structure. After the ceremony is over, the piece of steel will be completely secured.
[edit] See also
[edit] References
http://www.carpenters.org/carpentermag/Topping910_01.pdf Topping-Off! (goes into ancient Scandinavian religious roots); Carpenter Magazine; Sep/Oct 2001; accessed 2007-02-11
http://www.stp.uh.edu/vol68/160/news/news4.html Tree symbolizes campus' growth (tree is still a part of the ceremony); The Daily Cougar; Volume 68, Issue 160, Monday, July 28, 2003; accessed 2007-02-11
http://www.nationalreview.com/comment/wood200312230101.asp?category=all%20projects&id=23
