Before The Pour
Events and needs leading up to, during and after a typical Concrete Pour.
1. Site Prep
Before any physical work begins, the site must be assessed to understand its characteristics, including soil composition
, topography, and existing structures. This assessment often includes soil testing to determine its load-bearing capacity and suitability for construction. Based on these findings, a site preparation plan is developed, which outlines the necessary steps and considerations to address any issues identified.
2. Clearing and Grading
Clearing involves removing all vegetation, debris, and existing structures from the site. This step is essential to create a clean and unobstructed area for construction. Following clearing, grading is performed to level the ground and ensure proper drainage. Grading helps to create a stable base for building foundations and prevents water accumulation, which can undermine the structure or lead to erosion. Depending on the scale of the project, various types of Heavy Equipment are needed.
3. Excavation
Excavation is the process of digging into the ground to create space for foundations, basements, or other structural elements. This step must be done with precision to ensure that the excavation is at the correct depth and dimensions as specified in the construction plans. Proper excavation is crucial for laying a stable foundation and for accommodating any necessary utilities. Excavators are designed specifically for these functions.
4. Compaction
The soil on the site will need to be stabilized to improve its load-bearing capacity. This can involve techniques such as Pile Driving or Compaction, where soil is compressed to increase its density, or the addition of stabilizing materials like gravel or chemical additives. Soil stabilization ensures that the ground can adequately support the weight of the structures and reduces the risk of settlement or shifting.
5. Forming and Shoring
The next step is preparing for the Forming. This involves setting up Formwork, which is a temporary structure used to mold the concrete into the desired shape.Shoring is the process of elevating the Formwork to a desired height (Ceilings and Upper Levels).
6. Rebar Reinforcement
Rebar is a critical component, enhancing the strength and durability of the finished structure. From planning and cutting to placement and inspection, each step in the Rebar installation process is essential to ensure that the concrete will perform as designed.
6. Pumping and Mixer Staging
When the Forms are ready and Rebar is in place, the Pumping Unit is staged in a location for which the Pump hoses can reach the Forms. Additionally, if Concrete is being delivered by Ready-Mix Trucks this location has to be accessible by the Trucks. Considerations for this are: Truck will need and exit strategy which may include turning around? Trucks will need a Washout Location and importantly, the surface or road being used by the trucks will need to accomodate the Load Capacity of the Trucks.