MEDIANS
 |
|||
Highway Median barriers are essential for vehicle safety, and they are typically constructed using Jersey Barriers—either Precast or formed in place using Slipform machinery.
Precast Jersey barriers. These are modular concrete units, often 10 to 12 feet long, cast off-site and transported to the highway for installation. The main advantages of this method are fast installation, ideal for temporary or emergency use, reusability, and lower on-site labor. However, they have visible joints between segments, require Cranes or heavy machinery to place, and are less seamless and durable for long-term applications. They are best for temporary traffic separation, short-term projects, or areas where the Barrier may need to be removed or repositioned.
Slipform construction which involves pouring concrete continuously using a Slipform paving machine. This creates a monolithic, joint-free barrier directly on-site. Resulting in a strong and permanent structure with fewer maintenance issues over time. It also allows for custom profiles, such as F-shape or NJ-shape barriers.
When miles of barrier are needed, such as along highways or interstates, the Slipform method is typically preferred. Modern Slipform machines can lay several hundred to over a thousand feet of barrier per day. These machines produce seamless construction, which means fewer joints and increased safety.