Date: 06/10/07
Source: Wisconsin State Journal
Author: Marv Balousek

Founded in 1981, Tri-North Builders now has 68 employees at its Fitchburg headquarters, a dozen in Milwaukee, four in Dallas and about 450 working on projects across the country, according to marketing manager Robert Thayer.
President and chief executive Tom Thayer said many features of the corporate headquarters building at 2625 Research Park Drive were installed to test them for possible use in client construction projects.

Features include:

A chemical-free cooling tower that uses kinetic energy to eliminate water impurities.

An air space below the third floor that eliminates the need for overhead heating and cooling ducts and enhances ventilation.

A green roof with plantings and a low-water irrigation system.

Wall insulation made from recycled blue jeans instead of fiberglass.

Pervious concrete in the parking lot that lets water flow through it.

Waterless urinals, dual-flush toilets and solar-powered faucets. The gallons a year.

Outdoor light sensors that automatically raise and lower window shades to assist the heating and cooling systems, as well as indoor light senors that react to the amount of available natural light.

Flooring made from renewable materials like bamboo and cork, carpeting made from recycled yarn and other flooring made from renewable materials.

Recycling of more than 261 tons of construction debris and use of regional materials for 10 percent of the building.

Catwalks and high ceilings that allow natural light to reach interior areas.

An employee day-care center with an outdoor play area, workout room and dining room with a kitchen and indoor/outdoor seating.

------

Building tours can be arranged by calling Robert Thayer at 608.271.8717.

Return to Recent News