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Polished concrete has emerged as a versatile and highly sought-after flooring solution, offering a perfect blend of aesthetics, durability, and sustainability.

A smooth and glossy finish is achieved through a meticulous process of grinding and polishing concrete surfaces, transforming mundane floors into stunning focal points. Unlike traditional flooring materials, polished concrete utilizes the existing concrete slab, making it a natural and eco-friendly choice.

This process not only enhances the appearance of the space but also reinforces the concrete, making it resistant to stains, abrasion, and impact.  

Choose BNE for Polished Concrete

BNE Concrete Floors & Coatings holds the distinction of being the first contractor in Canada to introduce polished concrete flooring.

Our pioneering efforts have popularized this flooring solution and set a standard for quality and innovation in the industry. By offering expert installation and unparalleled craftsmanship, BNE has helped countless clients transform their spaces with the timeless elegance of polished concrete.  Contact us today!

Polished Concrete for Retail Spaces

Architects and Designers are increasingly opting for polished concrete in high-end retail stores due to its aesthetic appeal, durability, and versatility.

Polished concrete offers a modern, sleek look that aligns well with contemporary design trends, enhancing the overall upscale ambience of retail spaces. Its smooth surface reflects light, creating a bright and spacious feel, accentuating merchandise displays and attracting customers.  

Polished Concrete Durability, Maintenance & Versatility

Additionally, polished concrete is highly durable and capable of withstanding heavy foot traffic. It maintains its aesthetic quality over time with minimal maintenance. Its versatility allows for customization through various finishing techniques, colours, and decorative options, enabling designers to create unique and visually striking interiors tailored to the brand's image and target clientele.

Sustainability

Furthermore, the sustainability aspect of polished concrete, with its minimal environmental impact compared to other flooring materials, resonates well with consumers' growing preference for eco-friendly products and practices, further adding to its appeal in high-end retail settings.  

Safety Features

One of the most significant advantages of polished concrete flooring is its exceptional safety features, particularly in meeting national slip resistance standards.   

Polished concrete naturally has a low coefficient of friction, a characteristic upheld by adhering to ASTM Standards such as ASTM C1028. These standards measure the static coefficient of friction (SCOF) of surfaces. Polished concrete typically achieves a SCOF value above the recommended threshold, indicating sufficient traction to prevent slipping. Shiny floors do not mean they are slippery floors!  

Environmental Benefits of Polished Concrete

Polished concrete floors also present real and lasting environmental benefits. By repurposing existing concrete slabs or utilizing new concrete floors, there is no need for additional materials like laminates or ceramics.

The reduction in debris, labour, and packaging can have a massive effect on a project's carbon footprint. This aligns with sustainable building practices and may even qualify for LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) credits, contributing to green building certification efforts.  

Conclusion

Concrete is not just a mass of hard grey stone but a natural floor that can be customized. Clients can choose the level of shine, aggregate exposure, dye colours, and joint filling options to achieve their desired aesthetic and performance goals.  

Whether aiming for a sleek modern look or a rustic industrial vibe, polished concrete provides endless possibilities for creating unique and visually stunning spaces.  

In conclusion, polished concrete flooring is a superior choice for its unparalleled modern aesthetic, safety, sustainability, and versatility.  

With BNE Concrete Floors & Coatings leading the way in Canada, more businesses are discovering this innovative flooring solution's transformative potential, enhancing aesthetics and functionality in diverse settings. 

In the high demand world of food manufacturing, where hygiene, durability, and safety reign supreme, every aspect of the production process must be carefully considered – including the flooring. Enter Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems, a game-changer in the industry renowned for its myriad benefits.

Let's explore why Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems are the ideal choice for food manufacturing facilities, how they withstand steam cleaning and chemical exposure, their ability to withstand the dramatic temperature changes in food facilities. 

Polyurethane Cement Flooring System: A Game-Changer 

Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems are engineered to combine the durability of cement with the flexibility and resilience of polyurethane.

Designed for heavy-duty wear, it combines polyurethane with Portland cement, aggregates and other beneficial additives to build a highly functional resinous matrix. 

Why Polyurethane Cement Flooring is Beneficial to Food Manufacturing

• Hygiene: In food manufacturing, maintaining impeccable hygiene is non-negotiable. Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems boast a seamless, non-porous surface that resists bacterial growth and is easy to clean and sanitize, ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness. 

• Durability: Polyurethane cement flooring systems are resistant to abrasion, impact, and heavy loads, making Them well-suited for the rigorous demands of food manufacturing facilities. They provide long-lasting performance and cost-effectiveness. 

• Steam Cleaning: Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems shine in environments where steam cleaning is routine. They can withstand high temperatures without cracking or delaminating, ensuring structural integrity even in the face of intense cleaning protocols. 

• Chemical Resistance: From cleaning agents to food byproducts, food manufacturing facilities are exposed to a variety of chemicals. Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems exhibit excellent resistance to chemicals, oils, and acids, minimizing the risk of damage and maintaining their integrity over time. 

Moisture Tolerance: Ideal for Green Concrete Applications 

Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems are moisture-tolerant, making them ideal for applications on new concrete substrates in just 7 seven days. This is a huge benefit when the schedule is tight! 

Coves: Radius vs CANT 

Polyurethane cement coves are an essential component of seamless flooring systems, designed to provide a smooth transition between the floor and the wall, enhancing both aesthetics and functionality.  

Radius coves, characterized by their gently curved edges, offer a sleek and modern appearance while minimizing the accumulation of dirt and debris in hard-to-reach corners. These coves are meticulously crafted to seamlessly blend with the flooring, creating a hygienic and visually appealing environment ideal for industries such as food manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, and healthcare.  

On the other hand, cant coves feature a more angular design, providing a sharp transition between the floor and wall surfaces. Cant coves are favoured for their versatility and durability, offering robust protection against impact and ensuring easy maintenance in high-traffic areas. Whether it's radius or cant coves, polyurethane cement cove systems play a pivotal role in creating seamless and hygienic environments tailored to the unique needs of diverse industries. 

Polyurethane cement coves offer a range of benefits beyond aesthetics, including enhanced cleanliness, durability, and ease of maintenance. These coves provide a seamless transition between the floor and wall surfaces, eliminating the potential for dirt and bacteria buildup in hard-to-reach corners. By creating a smooth, impermeable seal, polyurethane cement coves contribute to a hygienic environment essential for industries where cleanliness is paramount.  

Additionally, the robust construction of polyurethane cement coves ensures resistance to impact and abrasion, prolonging the lifespan of the flooring system. Whether it's radius coves for a contemporary look or cant coves for added durability, polyurethane cement cove systems offer a versatile solution to meet the stringent demands of modern industrial and commercial spaces. 

The Importance of Top Coats for Protection 

While Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems offer impressive durability on their own, the addition of top coats is crucial for enhancing protection and longevity. Top coats can provide an added layer of defence against UV Yellowing and degradation of the flooring. They also serve as a wear surface, reducing the risk of abrasion and extending the lifespan of the flooring system. Depending on the clients needs, budget, and overall schedule BNE is able to recommend the top coat that works for their clients. 

Elevating Food Manufacturing Standards 

Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems are a game-changer in the food manufacturing industry, offering unparalleled hygiene, durability, and resistance to steam cleaning and chemicals. The ability for BNE to install Polyurethane cement flooring on new concrete makes it our first choice in when we are working in the food industry. 

With the addition of top coats, these flooring systems are fortified against UV yellowing and wear, ensuring they can withstand the rigors of the food manufacturing environment for years to come.  

By investing in Polyurethane Cement Flooring Systems, food manufacturers can elevate their standards, ensuring the highest levels of cleanliness, safety, and efficiency in their operations. 

Give BNE Concrete Floors & Coatings a call for more information on this or other floor options. 

After 30 years, I think itsit's fair to say that after 30 years there isn’ not a lot much BNE Concrete Floors & Coatings hasn’t seeseen. From routine jobs to more complex projects, no one can match our expertise.

This post is the first of a three partfirst in a three-part series where we’ll lo are going to look at three types of epoxy floor systems and explain when we will recommend each to meet and exceed our clients’ needs:.

1. Epoxy Ree-Ssurfacing

2. Specialized Epoxy Coating Systems

   1. ESD

   2. Mechanical Room Waterproofing (MRW)

   3. Chemical Resistant Coatings

3. Decorative & Thin Epoxy Systems

Today, we’ll go into the benefits of using epoxy to restore a high-traffic concrete floor and show you how we got the job done with minimal downtime.

Concrete Resurfacing: Using Epoxy to Restore a Badly Damaged and Worn Floor

Using an epoxyepoxy to resurface a concrete floor is nothing new. But what most people don’t know is how durable a thick epoxy coating can be, and how useful it is for ana business that cannot shut down for even a day.

BNE was contracted to provide a solution for a badly pitted concrete floor in a 12,000-square-foot maintenance building in Timmins, ON. Nothing unusual about the project, except for one major detail:. “NO DOWN TIME!”.

Our client is one of the largest gold mining companies in Canada. This maintenance building needs to operationalbe operational every day, no exceptions. Without the ability to repair large equipment, the gold stays in the ground, which means profits stay in the ground.

BNE worked out a plan to resurface the maintenance floor with a highly abrasion- resistant, trowel- applied epoxy in two phases:

1. Each phaseIn phase one, we worked on  being 6,000 sqauare feet of the floor completedover in 5-6 days, leaving half the floor operational for the client.

2. In phase two, we traded places: the client’s operations moved to the half of the floor that was now resurfaced while we worked on resurfacing the second half.

After 12 days, the entire floor was resurfaced with no downtime to the client.

Preparation

Before getting into the resurfacing process, we have to set the stage for success. Preparation is arguably the most important step in the entire process, since it directly affects adhesion, durability, and overall quality.

For this project, we prepared the floor using a method called scarification, targeting a Concrete Surface Profile (CSP) of 5-6. Scarification is the process of removing the top layer of concrete (including existing coatings, contaminants, or inconsistencies) to create a rough surface texture, allowing the epoxy coating to adhere better.

Achieving a CSP of 5-6 meant we created a surface rough enough for the epoxy to anchor securely, but not so rough as to hinder the application and finish of the coating.

Our Step-By-Step Epoxy Resurfacing Process

The epoxy we used to resurface this floor was Iron Guard, a steel-reinforced epoxy system with superior chemical resistance. Our process was as follows:

1. We began with a thorough cleaning process to remove all contaminants from the concrete surface. This step ensures the best possible adhesion of the epoxy.

2. Next, we applied a prime coat of epoxy and broadcast sand across it. This creates a strong bond between the epoxy and the existing concrete floor.

3. For the application of Iron Guard, we used screed boxes to maintain a consistent thickness across the entire floor, with the epoxy applied at an average thickness of ¾ inch. 

4. After laying down Iron Guard, we used walk-behind trowels to finish the epoxy surface, much like how you would finish a concrete floor. This ensures a smooth and even surface.

5. Finally, we performed back-rolling to bring the epoxy resin to the surface. We also broadcast more sand to create a slip-resistant texture that improved the safety and functionality of the floor.

Why Choose BNE for Your Epoxy Surfacing Needs

For our client, the project cost was not their biggest motivation for choosing BNE Concrete Floors & Coatings.

It was TIME.

When our client first began looking at options for their floor, they automatically assumed they would need to remove and replace all the concrete and rebar. This would have meant one week for removal, two days for grading, three days for pouring a new floor, and finally, time for curing. The best-case scenario would have been a turnaround of three weeks, during which time the maintenance building would be out of commission, which was unacceptable.

This is why a thick epoxy system was the clear choice. Using epoxy allowed for a faster turnaround with no downtime, improving the long-term durability of the floor and providing a safe, slip-resistant surface.

We completed this concrete resurfacing project in just 12 days without a single day of downtime. Using Iron Guard's steel-reinforced epoxy system, our approach not only met but exceeded our client's expectations. This project brings home the importance of choosing the right partner for your flooring needs - one that understands the value of time.

As we continue this series, we look forward to sharing more insights and successes, demonstrating why BNE remains at the forefront of concrete flooring and coating solutions.

At BNE, we are trusted experts in concrete finishing. We have the knowledge, equipment, and skills to properly install concrete for any type of project. We use industry-leading technology and expertise to provide the client with a concrete structure that will last. Our clients seek us out because we are a single source providing concrete finishing, polish and epoxy. This saves them time, money, and the hassle of communicating their needs to various contractors. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for your next construction project. We are just one phone call or email away!  

Concrete is an incredibly useful construction material – it can be used in a wide range of different applications. It is also quite strong and dependable, which is why concrete is often used for walkways, parking garages, and other areas that will see a high amount of traffic, both vehicular and pedestrian. 

However, high-traffic areas are also at an increased risk of damage due to their exposure to various elements, including debris brought in from the traffic itself, the weather and other outdoor elements, as well as moisture. The damage, which includes deterioration like erosion as well as cracks, is precisely why many developers and building owners apply a traffic coating to protect these areas. 

In this blog post, we will provide the detail you need to know about traffic coating, from the benefits it provides and when to use it, as well as the regulations surrounding its proper use.

At BNE, we improve the flooring experience. From placing and finishing the concrete through concrete surface preparation to epoxy floor and traffic coating, we have the knowledge, equipment, and skills to properly install the right type of flooring for any construction project. We leverage our position as an industry leader alongside cutting-edge technology to provide the client lasting flooring.  

Our clients seek us out because we are a single source providing concrete finishing, concrete polishing and resinous flooring. This saves them time, money, and the hassle of communicating their needs to various contractors. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for your next construction project. We are just one phone call or email away! 

What Are Traffic Coatings and Why Are They Important? 

Traffic coatings are protective materials applied to surfaces like parking decks, bridges, and other structures to enhance their durability and longevity, particularly in environments exposed to heavy vehicular traffic and harsh weather conditions.

One of the most significant benefits and purposes of traffic coatings is to protect the reinforcing steel bars (rebar) embedded within the concrete from the intrusion of chloride ions, commonly found in the form of salt, which can be carried into the concrete by water runoff from vehicles. Here's a breakdown of this important function: 

Corrosion Protection: Reinforcing steel bars (rebar) are commonly used within concrete structures to provide additional strength and structural integrity. However, steel is susceptible to corrosion when exposed to moisture and certain environmental elements. Chloride ions, such as those from salt, can accelerate the corrosion process when they penetrate the concrete and reach the rebar. 

Salt Intrusion: In Canada, where roads are treated with de-icing salts during winter months or where there is exposure to saltwater environments (such as coastal areas), chloride ions from salt can easily find their way into the concrete through cracks, joints, and pores in the surface. This is a significant concern because it can lead to premature deterioration of the concrete and structural issues over time. 

Traffic Coating as a Barrier: Traffic coatings act as a protective barrier on the concrete surface, preventing water, salt, and other harmful substances from infiltrating the concrete matrix. These coatings are typically applied in liquid form and can be elastomeric or polymeric in nature, providing a waterproof and chemically resistant layer. 

Long-Term Durability: By effectively sealing the concrete surface and shielding the embedded rebar from chloride ion intrusion, traffic coatings play a vital role in extending the lifespan of the concrete structure. This, in turn, reduces maintenance and repair costs over the long term. 

Safety: In addition to protecting the concrete and rebar, traffic coatings often have anti-slip properties to enhance safety for pedestrians and vehicles. They can also improve aesthetics and visibility by providing line striping and color options. 

Environmental Considerations: Preventing chloride ion intrusion helps mitigate the environmental impact of concrete corrosion, as it reduces the need for frequent repairs and replacements, which can be resource-intensive. 

Where Can Traffic Coatings be Used? 

Here are some areas where traffic coatings are typically used and considerations related to their application: 

Silane and Siloxanes 

Used on slab-on-grade or below-grade applications. These coatings are often employed to protect concrete surfaces that are in contact with the ground or submerged below it. 

Traffic Coatings 

Traffic coatings are applied on suspended slabs or elevated concrete surfaces. Designed to withstand vehicular and pedestrian traffic, these coatings are suitable for structures like parking garages, bridges, and decks. 

Waterproofing "Bathing Tub Effect" 

It's crucial to ensure that the traffic coating extends up the walls and columns by 100-150mm. This creates a proper waterproofing "bathing tub effect", preventing moisture from infiltrating through joints or gaps between the horizontal and vertical surfaces. 

Variation in Coating Thickness 

Traffic coatings can be applied in different thicknesses depending on the specific application: Heavy application is often necessary for areas with ramps and turning radius due to increased wear and tear. In contrast, thinner applications may be suitable for parking stalls where the traffic load is not as concentrated. 

Sloping for Proper Drainage 

Sloping of concrete floors is critical even before applying traffic coatings. During the concrete pouring phase, it's essential to ensure that the concrete has adequate slope to allow for proper water drainage. Conducting pond testing by flooding the floor and verifying that water runs to designated drains is an important step before applying the traffic coating. Proper drainage ensures that water does not pool on the surface, which can lead to moisture-related issues and damage over time. 

Types of Traffic Coatings 

Here are details on a few of the different types of traffic coatings available: 

Epoxy 

• Epoxy traffic coatings offer: increased slip resistance, 

• high durability (can withstand high amounts of traffic), and 

• pleasing aesthetics. 

• colour identification for traffic flow 

This material is quite rigid as well. 

Urethane 

A top coating of urethane is a popular option for traffic coatings. As a material, urethane offers:

• superior UV protection 

• improved chemical resistance 

• significant waterproofing, 

• slip resistance, and 

• significant protection (long lifespan). 

This type of traffic coating does require maintenance, especially when it is exposed to heavy equipment like snow plows. 

PMMA and PUMA 

PMMA and PUMA refer to polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) and polyurethane methacrylate respectively. These materials are: 

• quick drying (less downtime for high-traffic areas), 

• pungent (must be applied in well-ventilated areas), 

• can be applied at low temperatures, 

• must be applied to dry surfaces (for proper concrete adherence), and 

• require an exact mixture of chemicals. 

Where A Traffic Coating Is Necessary 

The installation of concrete in an outdoor or high traffic setting can often require a traffic coating. Some of the applications include: 

• parking garages, 

• stadiums and arenas, 

• walkways, 

• rooftop terraces, 

• footbridges, 

• parking decks and ramps, and 

• plaza decks. 

Consultation with a professional is key to determining not only when a traffic coating is necessary, but also which type of coating would be most beneficial. However, common elements that are considered include whether the concrete will experience the following: 

• abrasion from heavy traffic, 

• oil and chemical spills, 

• water damage, 

• de-icing compounds and road salts in the winter, and 

• the degree of exposure to weather (rain, snow, even UV rays). 

Each of the various types of traffic coating are suited to different situations – which is why these questions must be asked to zero in on what an individual project requires. 

Benefits of Traffic Coatings

Now that we have a thorough understanding of precisely what a traffic coating is as well as the various types of coatings that are available, it is worth discussing exactly why applying a traffic coating is a good idea. 

Here are details on the top 5 most common benefits of traffic coatings: 

Waterproof 

In climates that experience a significant amount of rainfall, or those otherwise exposed to high amounts of water, the waterproofing traffic coating can provide is essential. The coating forms a protective barrier between the water and the underlying concrete, which means the water cannot erode the concrete. Thus, the coating provides structural damage protection. 

Increased Safety 

Traffic coatings can provide an anti-slip surface with increased traction for the underlying layer. With the anti-slip coating, the risk of slips and falls dramatically decreases, which is particularly helpful from a safety perspective in unpredictable or inclement weather conditions. In addition, vehicular traffic coatings can also improve visibility for drivers as they offer sources of reflecting light. 

Chemical Resistance 

Traffic coatings in industrial areas and parking garages offer an unparalleled benefit: resistance to chemicals. Some of the common chemicals the coatings are primed to resist include oils and road salts. The coating means they cannot penetrate down to the layer of concrete underneath easily, extending the life of the roadway. 

Easy To Maintain 

Traffic coatings do not require a significant amount of maintenance, and when they do need it, the coatings are quite easy to maintain. As a result, they do not need repairs as frequently and when they do, they do not tend to cost as much. 

Improved Aesthetics 

Without traffic coatings, all of the roadways, walkways, and similar surfaces would look the same and quite boring at that. However, traffic coatings offer improved aesthetics since they come in a variety of colours, finishes, and other customizations.  

Regulations for Traffic Coatings 

Applying a traffic coating is not as simple as just picking one and applying wherever is suitable. There are several regulations surrounding traffic coatings that must be considered for not only proper application, but safety as well. 

Here is the key information linked to the regulations for traffic coatings in Canada. Much of it stems from the Volatile Organic Compound Concentration Limits for Architectural Coatings Regulations, which apply to traffic coating: 

• manufacturers,  

• sellers,  

• importers, and  

• users. 

Storage and Delivery 

When it comes to the storage and delivery of traffic coating materials, there are 3 main regulatory elements. They are: 

• delivery in unopened and original containers, 

• storage of materials off the ground and protected from the elements (including heat, freezing temperatures, and rain) until they are needed for use, and 

• condition the materials as specified by the manufacturer. 

It is also worth noting that the containers the traffic coating materials are delivered in must have the following information on it: 

• Manufacturer name 

• Product identification 

• Labels 

• Batch numbers 

VOC Concentration Limits 

Traffic marking (TM) coatings manufactured in Canada, or imported into the country, are subject to a VOC concentration limit. Specifically, traffic coatings must not contain more than 450 g/L of VOCs. It is forbidden to sell any coating that exceeds this limit. 

Call A Traffic Coating Professional 

When it comes to applying a concrete traffic coating, there are many reasons to do it. As discussed, these include: 

• waterproof; 

• protection against road salts, chemicals, and similar substances; 

• ease of maintenance; and 

• anti-slip surface providing increased safety to those walking or driving on it. 

Ultimately, a quality traffic coating protects the investment of the concrete surface underneath. Thus, although there is an upfront investment associated with the application of a waterproof traffic coating, it will dramatically extend the concrete’s lifespan and save on costs in the long run. 

At BNE, we improve the flooring experience. From concrete surface preparation and polished concrete to epoxy floor and traffic coating, we have the knowledge, equipment, and skills to properly install the right type of flooring for any construction project. We leverage our position as an industry leader alongside cutting-edge technology to provide the client lasting flooring.  

Our clients seek us out because we are a single source providing concrete finishing, polish, and epoxy. This saves them time, money, and the hassle of communicating their needs to various contractors. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for your next construction project. We are just one phone call or email away! 

Without even realizing it, concrete is fundamental to our daily lives, forming the very foundation upon which our transportation systems rely.  

Whether it's the highways we drive on, the bridges we cross, or the tunnels we pass through, concrete ensures the safety, reliability, and longevity of these vital structures. 

Imagine a world where concrete isn't placed correctly – where bridges develop cracks, roads deteriorate rapidly, and transit systems face frequent disruptions. The consequences of subpar concrete placement are far-reaching, affecting not only the safety of commuters but also the financial burden of repairs and maintenance on governments and taxpayers. 

In this blog post, we will look into the critical aspects of concrete placement in transit infrastructure projects.  

At BNE, we are trusted experts in concrete finishing. We have the knowledge, equipment, and skills to properly install concrete for any type of project. We use industry-leading technology and expertise to provide the client with a concrete structure that will last. Our clients seek us out because we are a single source providing concrete finishing, polish and epoxy. This saves them time, money, and the hassle of communicating their needs to various contractors. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for your next construction project. We are just one phone call or email away! 

Best Practices for Concrete Placement 

While concrete might appear as a straightforward building material, its successful placement requires careful attention to detail. Adhering to best practices in concrete placement ensures that the roads and structures maintain their structural integrity. Properly placed concrete is less likely to develop cracks, weaknesses, or structural failures over time. 

Since proper placement can make all the difference, here are some best practices all individuals in the construction industry must adhere to: 

• Safety: Best practices prioritize safety during the concrete placement process, reducing the risk of accidents or injuries to workers and the public. Properly placed concrete minimizes hazards associated with construction. 

• Longevity: Concrete structures built following best practices tend to have a longer lifespan. They are better equipped to withstand environmental factors, wear and tear, and heavy traffic loads, reducing the frequency of repairs and maintenance. 

• Cost Savings: By avoiding mistakes and issues associated with improper concrete placement, projects can save significant costs in the long run. Repairs and retrofitting due to placement errors can be expensive and time-consuming. 

• Efficiency: Best practices streamline the concrete placement process, making it more efficient and reducing downtime. This helps keep construction projects on schedule and within budget. 

• Environmental Impact: Proper concrete placement practices can also be more environmentally friendly. This includes using the right concrete mixtures and curing methods to reduce waste and energy consumption. 

Potential Consequences of Improper Concrete Placement 

• Reduced Strength: Improperly placed concrete may not achieve its designed strength, compromising the overall structural integrity of the infrastructure. 

• Cracking: Poorly placed concrete is more prone to cracking, which can lead to water infiltration, corrosion of reinforcement, and further deterioration. 

• Safety Risks: Structural issues resulting from improper placement can pose safety risks to both construction workers and the public who use the infrastructure. 

• Increased Maintenance: Infrastructure with placement issues requires more frequent maintenance and repairs, increasing long-term costs. 

• Project Delays: Addressing placement-related problems can lead to project delays, impacting timelines and budgets. 

• Legal and Liability Issues: If improper placement leads to accidents or structural failures, it can result in legal liabilities for construction companies and project stakeholders. 

Concrete Mix Design 

Choosing the right concrete mix for transit infrastructure influences the project's performance and lifespan.

The composition of the concrete mix should be meticulously tailored to meet specific project requirements, considering factors like desired strength levels to bear heavy loads, durability to withstand environmental conditions, and adaptability to weather conditions that can affect curing and setting times. 

Temperature Control and Curing 

The rate at which concrete cures and gains strength is highly dependent on temperature. Extreme temperatures, whether too hot or too cold, can negatively impact the quality and long-term performance of the concrete.  

• Hot weather can cause rapid curing, leading to potential cracking and reduced strength  

• Cold weather can slow down curing, potentially causing delayed setting times and lower early strength development. 

To ensure proper strength and durability, curing techniques are used immediately after concrete placement.  

These techniques typically involve keeping the concrete surface moist and at the right temperature for an extended period. This prevents moisture loss, allowing the concrete to fully hydrate and develop its intended strength and durability.  

Curing methods can include: 

• Covering the concrete with wet burlap 

• Applying curing compounds 

• Using curing blankets and insulated enclosures, depending on the project's requirements and environmental conditions.  

Proper temperature control and curing are essential to maximize the performance and longevity of transit infrastructure elements constructed with concrete. 

Concrete Placement Methods 

There is more than one way to get the job done. The suitability of each concrete placement method depends on factors like project scope, access constraints, required finish quality, and environmental conditions.

Choosing the right method is critical to ensuring that concrete is placed efficiently and meets the specific needs of the transit infrastructure project. Here is a look at some of the most commonly used methods: 

• Pouring: Traditional concrete pouring involves mixing concrete at the construction site and manually placing it into molds or formwork. It is a widely used method for various transit infrastructure projects, including roadways, bridge decks, and building foundations. It offers flexibility and control over placement but may be labour-intensive and slower for large-scale projects. 

• Pumping: Concrete pumping utilizes specialized equipment to transport mixed concrete from a central location to the placement area through a network of pipes and hoses. This method is particularly useful for projects with challenging access points or when significant distances need to be covered, such as high-rise buildings or long-span bridges. 

• Shotcrete: Shotcrete, or sprayed concrete, involves pneumatically projecting a pre-mixed or dry concrete mixture onto a surface using a high-velocity nozzle. It is commonly used for tunnel linings, retaining walls, and slope stabilization due to its adaptability to complex shapes and surfaces. Shotcrete provides excellent bonding and can be applied quickly, making it suitable for transit infrastructure projects requiring rapid construction. 

• Precast Concrete: In this method, concrete elements are precast in a controlled environment, such as a factory, and then transported to the construction site for assembly. Precast elements like beams, columns, and panels are commonly used in transit infrastructure for their quality control, durability, and rapid installation. This method is suitable for various applications, including subway stations and parking structures. 

• Slipforming: Slipforming is a continuous method where concrete is poured into a continuously moving formwork system, shaping structures like curbs, barriers, and parapets. It is efficient and suitable for projects requiring uniformity and long, linear elements, such as highway barriers and traffic dividers. 

• Self-Consolidating Concrete (SCC): SCC is a mix design that flows easily and consolidates under its weight without the need for mechanical vibration. It is suitable for complex and densely reinforced transit infrastructure elements, such as columns and bridge piers, where traditional placement methods might be challenging. 

• Tremie Concrete Placement: Tremie pouring involves using a vertical pipe to place concrete underwater, commonly used in the construction of underwater foundations, bridge piers, and marine structures. It prevents segregation of aggregates and ensures proper consolidation. 

Common Challenges 

There are always a number of challenges to navigate in the construction industry. Here are some of the most common when placing concrete.  

• Time Sensitivity: Transit infrastructure projects often have tight timelines. The rapid setting of concrete in hot weather or delayed setting in cold weather can pose challenges to proper placement and finishing. 

• Traffic Interruptions: On transportation projects, such as road and bridge construction, traffic management is essential. Concrete placement needs to be coordinated to minimize disruptions to commuters. 

• Weather Variability: Weather conditions, including extreme temperatures, rain, or humidity, can affect the concrete placement process and compromise the quality of the finished product. 

• Concrete Mix Consistency: Achieving consistent concrete mix properties on large-scale projects can be challenging, leading to variations in strength, durability, and workability. 

• Complex Structures: Projects involving intricate structural designs or unusual shapes may require specialized concrete placement methods to ensure uniformity and structural integrity. 

Quality Control 

Quality control measures in concrete placement involve ensuring that the concrete meets the specified standards, both in terms of its composition and placement conditions. This includes verifying the concrete mix design, monitoring the temperature, slump, and consistency of the fresh concrete, and conducting regular tests for factors like air content and compressive strength to maintain consistency and compliance with project requirements.  

Throughout the placement process, quality control requires diligent monitoring and testing to identify and address any deviations or issues promptly. What is most important is ensuring that the final product meets the required standards for strength, durability, and performance in transit infrastructure projects. 

At BNE, we are trusted experts in concrete finishing. We have the knowledge, equipment, and skills to properly install concrete for any type of project. We use industry-leading technology and expertise to provide the client with a concrete structure that will last. Our clients seek us out because we are a single source providing concrete finishing, polish and epoxy. This saves them time, money, and the hassle of communicating their needs to various contractors. Do not hesitate to reach out to us for your next construction project. We are just one phone call or email away!