Building a Major Commercial Warehouse in Pakenham

PART 1 | Earthworks — Where It All Begins

Before 92 precast panels are lifted into place and the structural steel takes shape, there is a site to transform.

At Commercial Drive, Pakenham, Chalmers Constructions is preparing the ground for a major commercial warehouse — and the work underway is only the first chapter.

Our role covers earthworks across approximately 6,800 m², concrete footings and slabs, the manufacture and installation of around 2,200 m² of precast wall panels, structural steel fabrication and erection, and external concrete pavements. With our Torquay manufacturing facilities, transport fleet and 120-tonne mobile crane, we bring the equipment and construction experience to deliver these major stages. Behind the scenes, our steel detailer is already preparing drawings for the structure to come. Follow the build as we take you through each stage, starting with the machinery and precision behind the earthworks.

Moving Earth with Our Own Equipment

Our own machinery on site, from bulk earthmoving equipment to the tractor-mounted laser grader.

The first task was clearing the way. Our 20-tonne excavator removed topsoil, clay and unsuitable material, excavating generally around 400 mm below the original ground level. Our trucks handled the cartage and removal of spoil.

Owning the machinery is only part of the advantage. With our operators and truck fleet working together, we can coordinate excavation, loading and cartage as one operation, keeping material moving as the site comes together.

The truck fleet and excavator support a coordinated excavation and cartage operation.

The bigger picture — our 3D precast model shows the warehouse walls taking shape.

Building the Warehouse Platform

Excavation was just the beginning. The site was then rebuilt with Class 4 crushed rock, placed and compacted in layers.

When the building levels were raised by approximately 125 mm, our team incorporated an additional 2,040 tonnes of crushed rock into the earthworks program.

Our tractor-mounted laser grader brought precision to the final trimming, achieving the required levels across the building platform.

From moving large volumes of material to controlling the finished surface, each part of the operation prepares the site for the next stage.

The prepared platform reveals the scale of the site and the footprint for the construction ahead.

Knowing What Comes Next. The team that prepared this ground understands the footings, slabs, precast walls and steel that will follow. That connection between earthmoving and construction helps us plan each stage with the next one in mind.

Next in the Series

Part 2 — Footings

With the platform prepared, the focus turns to reinforced concrete foundations. Part 2 covers footing excavation, reinforcement and concrete placement — the next step towards bringing the warehouse out of the ground.

This is Part 1 of our series following the build at Commercial Drive, Pakenham.

Let’s Talk About Your Project

Call Norm Chalmers 0419 595 580