S05 Questions and Answers Replace Abandoned HVAC on 2B Roof 11-17-23.docx

RFI -REPLACE ABANDONED HVAC ON 2B ROOF.

36C24224Q0080 Contractor questions and answers

Question: Is this a bid only for the VA contractors or MBE can participate?

Answer: This project is 100% SDVOSB set-aside procurement.

Question: We were interested in bidding the above-mentioned project and wanted to request you to send me the link for the bidding documents. (Drawings, specs, ITB) Answer: Unfortunately, there are no drawings available. Additional photos are added to the updated SOW on solicitation amendment 0001.

Question: What is the due date for the RFIs?

Answer: The RFIs are due on November 16,2023, at 3:00pm EST

Question: Can you kindly advise on if there is any additional information available for this opportunity?

Answer: Any specific RFI regarding this project will be posted on SAM.gov as amendment to the RFQ. Just an FYI, this a 100% Service-Disabled Veteran Owned Small Business (SDVOSB) set-aside project.

Question: Please clarify that we are not replacing the HVAC unit on the roof but rather removing it and covering the existing curb with a waterproof cover.

Answer: Yes, you will be removing the HVAC, not replacing it, although we do not have photos or records of the curb it is sitting on. The curb must be in a watertight condition when the project is completed and the scope of work to achieve this will be approved by the CO/COR.

Question: The existing number for exhaust mushroom fan has no impeller motor or cover. As discussed, please specify the required voltage, CFM, and static pressure requirements of a replacement unit that will fit the existing 22 in. Square curb.

Answer: The required voltage is 110V, the RPM is 1000, HP is 1/6, CFM is 800, SP is 1/4, HZ is 60. Please ensure that a new fan, motor, mushroom cap, (and all additional parts) are quoted for bidding purposes of this solicitation. This work is meant to be mechanical, and we will have our HVAC/electrical shops work with you in order to get this exhaust fan up and running. See attached photos in revised SOW of 1 of the other fans without the mushroom cap on.

Question: As discussed with the roofing material contractor, please clarify that the new solid cover for the existing RTU curb will be watertight from the manufacturer and not require liquid roofing material.

Answer: To the above point, the curb will be repaired once the unit is lifted, and we know what we are dealing with. This is a classic "unforeseen condition" situation. Our HVAC guy thinks there may be a void in the structural deck for the duct work, etc... if so, this may require new decking to close the hole and then rolled roofing, insulation, etc.. to patch it back up. If the curb is solid and in good condition, then it can be treated differently (maybe EPDM patch and caulk, etc...). The contractor must plan ahead in their bid for this unforeseen condition.

Question: Please specify what is the weight of the existing HVAC equipment to be removed?

Answer: This information is unknown, as this piece of equipment has been abandoned for over 30 years. Take approximations based on the pictures that were added to the SOW with the tarp removed and bid based off that approximation.

Question: Does contractor have to remove and dispose of the existing HVAC equipment in one piece or can the existing be dismantled/cut on the roof and then cut equipment pieces can be removed and dispose of the site?

Answer: No, the contractor can remove the HVAC equipment in as many pieces are convenient for them. If there is an itinerary and a safety plan, the CO/COR will approve of however the contractor chooses to accomplish the task.

Question: Please specify what is the exact type of existing roof? Is this roof under warranty? If yes, then please provide the details of roof manufacturer and contractor.

Answer: This is a gravel roof, and it is not under current warranty. The roof is more than 20 years old.

Question: SOW states existing roof to be sealed with rainproofing sealant. What if sealant does not stop the leak. So please specify the correct sealant to be used or specify the new roofing system to patch the area.

Answer: The material is Garland Wet Cote. The manufacturer was on-site, and he can provide you that information in detail. The work must be rainproofed to be considered complete. If you need the manufacturer’s information again, please let me know.

Question: After removal of existing HVAC equipment, the existing roofing system below this removed equipment must be removed too? Or contractor has to patch on top of the existing roof or directly apply rainproof sealant on top of the existing roof? Please clarify in detail.

Answer: The existing HVAC unit will be removed from the roof. The remaining area must be left in a rainproofed condition. Please budget for any unforeseen condition underneath the equipment.

Question: SOW states a sanitation ticket is needed to complete this work. --- Please advise why a sanitation ticket is required? And which agency will provide this sanitation ticket?

Answer: The debris from the construction site must be disposed of properly. Our GEMS coordinator requests that all construction sites with debris must provide a sanitation ticket from the disposal of all construction waste to ensure disposal was environmentally sound. Whoever comes to take the contractor’s garbage will provide a waste manifest for what was taken on that day, and then it is up to the PM to fill out a Construction Waste Management form for our GEMS coordinator.

Question: If crane is required to remove and rig the existing HVAC equipment, then will VA allow crane usage during regular work hours of Monday to Friday?

Answer: Yes, crane usage will be allowed during regular work hours.

Question: Is the mushroom cap under the tarp?

Answer: The mushroom cap is located right next to the HVAC equipment. It is its own separate entity; 4 exhaust fans that are being used by the below laboratory. The mushroom cap is to be replaced, as it blew off in a heavy rain/windstorm.

Question: Considering there is electrical involved, is the conduit to be cut down to the level of the roof?

Answer: This work is primarily mechanical. Any electrical work will be provided by our own HVAC/electrical shops. Electrical parts for repairing the mushroom fan might be necessary though. The shops will work with the contractor to ensure the mushroom fan comes back online.

Question: Is the wiring in the conduit to be removed by the contractor?

Answer: There should be no wiring to be removed, unless it is coming from the HVAC system. The HVAC system is abandoned, so whatever wire that can be capped or pulled that would be necessary to plug the roof shall be considered adequate.

Question: Are there any current drawings related to the current mushroom cap that can be supplied to the contractor Answer: Unfortunately, there are no drawings available. Please see photos in revised SOW to see an image inside one of the other mushroom fans to give you an idea of what’s inside. Feel free to stop by for a visit and I can walk you through the site if you would like.