'Time Capsules' & 'Topping Out' ceremonies explained

Daniel Sturley, a member of the community and follower of all things construction, was recently invited to join Wates at a ceremony to mark the 'topping out' of Bank Tower Two.

But what is 'topping out' and what are these 'time-capsules'?

Here we share with the community, the reason behind, and the history behind, these ceremonies.

What is 'topping out'?

In the construction industry 'topping out' which is also referred to as 'topping off' is normally held when the last beam is placed atop a structure. 

The practice of "topping out" a new building can be traced back to an ancient Scandinavian rite which involved the placing of a tree atop a new building.

Here the Wates team perform their 'topping out' ceremony atop Tower Bank Two.

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And what about the 'time capsule'?

A time capsule is a cache containing goods and information specific to the time period in which the build took place.  

Where it is placed or buried is often a well protected secret.

Here's the Wates team with their time capsule. 

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Go here to see how the British Library suggests a time capsule is prepared. 

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All photography taken by Daniel Sturley.