Tilt-Up Construction - Issue #6

Welcome to the September issue of White Cap’s Contractor Field Notes, your source for industry insights, product reviews, and safety tips. Tilt-up construction is an incredibly efficient and versatile method for constructing large, flat wall panels. The technique has been around for many years and continues to grow in popularity due to its many advantages. In this issue, we’ll be looking at tips and best practices you can use to make your tilt-up projects safer and more efficient.

Trends from the Field??

White Cap Product Sales Specialist Frank P. shares the trends he’s seeing in the field that are impacting the tilt-up sector.??

Increased Interest in Architectural Designs and Textures

There’s a growing interest in using tilt-up panels incorporating unique exterior features and textures. By using formliners, contractors can create beautifully textured patterns and aesthetic features instead of being limited to smooth, flat panels. And with the ability to make custom formliners, tilt-up panel designs are limitless.?

New Advancements Are Making Tilt-Up Easier and Safer

Tilt-up products have improved due to contractors asking product manufacturers to develop more user-friendly accessories. Ground release lifting inserts are one example. These inserts allow workers to release the hardware attached to the panel from the ground instead of using coil lifting inserts, which require workers to climb a ladder, unscrew the hardware, and release the rigging from the panel. Using ground inserts simplifies the process, reduces time, and makes it safer for workers.?

Regulations Are Improving Tilt-Up Safety

OSHA regulations have made tilt-up safer than ever before. In the past, crane operators could exceed the crane’s capacity, which could lead to a crane failure and panel collapse as the rear out-riggers come off the slab. As a result of OSHA regulations, crane operators can be fined or even lose their license by not following the correct lifting procedures. There are also new regulations for lifting and bracing panels near walkways, parking lots, and buildings. These regulations are aimed at increasing safety for workers and existing structures on the jobsite.

Got a tilt-up project on the horizon? We can provide a comprehensive job take-off, helping you calculate the number of lifting inserts, braces, and chemicals to complete your project.?Contact your local branch or a specialist today to see how we can help.?

?Safety Spotlight: Safely Maintain Tilt-Up Braces

Tilt-up braces are one of the most critical safety features on a construction site. They support the weight of the tilt-up panels during construction and ensure that the panels are securely in place. They must be properly inspected and maintained to ensure the safety of the workers and the structure itself. Keep these maintenance tips in mind when working on tilt-up projects.

Inspect braces for damage. Braces can become damaged or weakened over time. This can be due to weathering, general wear, or even vandalism. It is essential to regularly inspect the braces for any signs of damage and repair or replace them as necessary.

Check for loose braces. Over time, braces can become loose. This can happen if the bolts in place become loose or the ground around the braces settles.?It is essential to check the bolt tightness and integrity regularly and ensure the ground around the braces is level.

Keep braces out of the way. Store braces away from areas where they could interfere with other construction activities, become damaged by jobsite equipment, or cause an accident.

For more information about maintaining your tilt-up equipment and keeping your jobsite safe, contact a White Cap?safety specialist.??

Product Spotlight:?Tilt-Up Construction Products

Tilt-up construction requires specialized equipment, including lifts strong enough to lift the panels into place and various forms and braces used to support the panels during the tilting process. Here’s a breakdown of the components required for a tilt-up project:

Panels.?The panels used for tilt-up construction must be high quality and strong enough to withstand the weight of the completed structure. They must also be reinforced correctly to avoid cracking or breaking during construction.

Panel forming for tilt-up slabs begins with creating the perimeter forms. These forms define the edges of the panel and determine the shape of any door and window openings. The forms are built using 2x lumber or plywood and must be strong enough to support the weight of the wet concrete.

Braces.?Tilt-up bracing consists of horizontal and vertical members installed on the building’s exterior walls. The horizontal members are typically installed at the base, extending to the top of the wall. The vertical members are installed on the corners of the wall, extending from the foundation to the top. The number and type of bracing members used will vary depending on the size and height of the wall, as well as other factors such as wind load and seismic activity in the area.

Several types of tilt-up braces are available, each with unique advantages. It is crucial to select the correct type of brace for your specific project to ensure its safety and stability.

Hardware.?Various hardware is required to properly lift and secure the tilt-up panels and braces. Hardware includes lifters, anchors, bolts, nuts, washers, and other fasteners. When choosing hardware for tilt-up construction, it is vital to consider the project’s specific needs. The required hardware is determined by the size and weight of the walls being lifted and the height at which they will be installed.

Accessories.?Several accessories can be used with tilt-up panels to enhance their performance and aesthetic appeal. These include panel formliners, bond breakers, lifts, brick-facing systems, and stucco finishes.

White Cap has years of experience helping contractors with their tilt-up projects and can connect you with a knowledgeable?specialist?in your area. White Cap also rents and delivers tilt-up braces and more, offering you access to the latest equipment when you need it. Learn more about our equipment rentals.

Additional Resources?

If you're considering a tilt-up construction project, get in touch with White Cap – we have the experience and expertise to ensure your project goes smoothly from start to finish. Check out these additional articles for more tilt-up insights and tips.

Tilt-Up Engineering

Tilt-Up Slabs

Tilt-Up - Lifting and Bracing

Patching and Repair for Tilt-Up

Tilt-Up Pre-Cast Services

Advantages of Renting Vs. Buying

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