Constructing with concrete includes several techniques such as slip forming, flying slabs, jump forming, tunnel forming, and lift slabs. Although all these techniques are great, the tilt panel construction method stands out more than the rest. Many construction companies continue to support this method because of its economic appeal and swiftness. As a result, many buildings with millions of square feet have been formed through this method. But what is tilt-up construction, and what makes it so famous? Read further to know all about the tilt-up construction.
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What Is Tilt-Up Construction?
Tilt-up construction is a method that makes construction and working with concrete a quick and easy task. This method helps cast concrete elements like walls and pillars. It supports the top of concrete slabs horizontally, including the building floors and setting the other concrete castings on a flat surface. After the cast is cured and the elements are cut to size, the crane then tilts it to the vertical position. The bases are supported and secured with the help of concrete. And it remains in the same place until the immediate floors, sidewalls, and roofs are correctly set and safely secured. This method is ideal for midtown construction projects. Countries like Northern America, Australia and New Zealand prefer this method. This technique can be utilised in casting concrete elements at factories and erecting retaining walls.
What Is The History Of Tilt-Up Construction?
Tilt-up building was pioneered by Robert Aiken in the early 1900s. The retaining walls at Camp Logan Range in Illinois were designed by Robert Aiken. He had an idea while planning and chose to pour concrete into the wall panels that were level on the ground. As soon as the concrete had dried, he slanted the walls and fastened them to the concrete footers. That’s how the tilt-up construction was born. He used this technique in many buildings of Illinois. The famous American inventor, Thomas Alva Edison, was impressed by this technique and saw it as the future of construction. Hence, Edison’s entire village has utilised this construction method. At present, this village continues to stand. This technique has seen many modifications throughout the years, and it has been made economical, convenient and safe.
What Are The Advantages Of Tilt-Up Construction?
There are several advantages of this technique, and many construction companies are erecting warehouses, office buildings, retail stores, storage facilities and other building projects. Listed below are a few advantages.
- It Is Economical: For the tilt-up wall technique, a smaller workforce is enough to reduce labour costs. Additionally, the smaller workforce will require less equipment. Hence, it results in cutting down the costs. Most of the expense is required for safe installation and additional equipment needs like scaffolding. Although the use of cranes can be expensive, it is budget-friendly when utilised in huge buildings.
- It Is Faster And Safer To Install: The tilt-up technique is one of the fastest methods in the construction process. Although the casting process can take time, once the panels are ready, the cranes can tilt them up. The installation procedure is then complete.
- It Lessens Waste And Lowers The Environmental Impact: The tilt-up walls have less waste to dispose of than the cast-in walls, which require rebar, forms, concrete and other materials for the casting process. Since it disposes less waste, it will positively impact the environment, and the worksite clutter will be non-dangerous. The best part about tilt-up walls is that you can recycle them.
- It Allows Customisation And Architectural Design: During the casting process of the tilt panel construction method, you can add textures and surfaces for an incredible look. The amount of money spent on architectural design or paintings can be reduced. You can cover the walls with any siding.