Talk. Build 's Entries
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The catastrophic failure of Genoa’s Morandi bridge in August in 2018 has only served to highlight how ageing bridge structures must have a maintenance regime that can ensure the safety of road users. In the UK, rail and road bridges are subjected to many types of loadings and other influences including corrosion which has to be properly managed to maintain safety. With nearly 100,000 road road and rail bridges across the country, what proven solutions are available to ensure this vital infrastructure is fit for the future? Three quarters of all highways bridges consist of reinforced concrete, and whilst concrete accounts for the make-up of the majority of rail bridges, these structures are also made of other materials such as cast and wrought iron. Regardless of a bridge’s properties, the long-term exposure to the elements and traffic-based wear and tear will potentially lead to a number of issues including reinforcement corrosion, excessive cracking, chloride ingress and surface erosion. The consequences of not addressing bridge repair problems will be costly and possibly even dangerous in the long-run. Therefore, evaluating the causes of the deterioration is just as important and vital to evaluating and offering the correct repair strategy. Testing is a vital part of bridge repair and protection specification. It can be carried out using various techniques including a basic visual survey, hammer testing, chloride analysis techniques, carbonation testing, concrete-to-reinforcement cover surveys and half-cell potential testing. These assessments will help play a part in Sika’s preparation of any project-specific specification offering. Lifecycle costing and management offers bridge owners the best approach to minimising any closure times whilst increasing required periods between scheduled maintenance works. This helps incur a minimal expenditure over the structure’s full service life. Sika provides bridge owners and their maintenance managers with the right design and planning tools, followed by well-designed and proven refurbishment solutions and systems to considerably increase the time between necessary maintenance and repair cycles. As the worldwide leader in the structural-strengthening of all types of reinforced concrete structures, Sika provides a full range of fully-tested and approved strengthening systems. Rather than use steel reinforcement to strengthen columns, beams, slabs and wall, specifiers are turning to carbon fibre.Flexible and versatile with a superior strength-to-mass ratio than traditional reinforcing methods, carbon fibre allows for a significant increase in performance without adding additional significant dead load. This solution is less intrusive and quicker and easier to install compared to traditional methods. Carbon fibre strengthening comes in many different forms, plates, rods, near surface mounted plates, fabrics and shear links and are fixed using a range of high performance structural adhesives. It is increasing in popularity as a proven solution for not only reinforced concrete but also steel, cast iron, wood and masonry structures due to its strength, lightweight, easy-handling ability, durability, superb adhesion and rapid installation where downtime of a structure is in short supply. By installing Sika CarboDur® for example, it is possible to improve the load carrying capability of the bridge so it can carry additional wheel loads and be fit for modern road standards. Furthermore, ageing bridges across the UK rail industry network, many from the Victorian era, require proven solutions which minimise disruption. This widely recognised and established carbon-fibre reinforced polymer strengthening solution can be installed overnight when using the new Sika CarboHeater® to encourage earlier curing, even at lower temperatures. Fixing and futureproofing critical infrastructure such as bridges has never been more important. When it comes to the upgrade and maintenance of these vital assets, Sika has the long-term refurbishment solutions that will stand the test of time. Visit www.sika.co.uk0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build The catastrophic failure of Genoa’s Morandi bridge in August in 2018 has only served to highlight how ageing bridge structures must have a maintenance regime that can ensure the safety of road users. In the UK, rail and road bridges are subjected to many types of loadings and other influences including corrosion which has to be properly managed to maintain safety. With nearly 100,000 road road and rail bridges across the country, what proven solutions are available to ensure this vital infrastructure is fit for the future? Three quarters of all highways bridges consist of reinforced concrete, and whilst concrete accounts for the make-up of the majority of rail bridges, these structures are also made of other materials such as cast and wrought iron. Regardless of a bridge’s properties, the long-term exposure to the elements and traffic-based wear and tear will potentially lead to a number of issues including reinforcement corrosion, excessive cracking, chloride ingress and surface erosion. The consequences of not addressing bridge repair problems will be costly and possibly even dangerous in the long-run. Therefore, evaluating the causes of the deterioration is just as important and vital to evaluating and offering the correct repair strategy. Testing is a vital part of bridge repair and protection specification. It can be carried out using various techniques including a basic visual survey, hammer testing, chloride analysis techniques, carbonation testing, concrete-to-reinforcement cover surveys and half-cell potential testing. These assessments will help play a part in Sika’s preparation of any project-specific specification offering. Lifecycle costing and management offers bridge owners the best approach to minimising any closure times whilst increasing required periods between scheduled maintenance works. This helps incur a minimal expenditure over the structure’s full service life. Sika provides bridge owners and their maintenance managers with the right design and planning tools, followed by well-designed and proven refurbishment solutions and systems to considerably increase the time between necessary maintenance and repair cycles. As the worldwide leader in the structural-strengthening of all types of reinforced concrete structures, Sika provides a full range of fully-tested and approved strengthening systems. Rather than use steel reinforcement to strengthen columns, beams, slabs and wall, specifiers are turning to carbon fibre.Flexible and versatile with a superior strength-to-mass ratio than traditional reinforcing methods, carbon fibre allows for a significant increase in performance without adding additional significant dead load. This solution is less intrusive and quicker and easier to install compared to traditional methods. Carbon fibre strengthening comes in many different forms, plates, rods, near surface mounted plates, fabrics and shear links and are fixed using a range of high performance structural adhesives. It is increasing in popularity as a proven solution for not only reinforced concrete but also steel, cast iron, wood and masonry structures due to its strength, lightweight, easy-handling ability, durability, superb adhesion and rapid installation where downtime of a structure is in short supply. By installing Sika CarboDur® for example, it is possible to improve the load carrying capability of the bridge so it can carry additional wheel loads and be fit for modern road standards. Furthermore, ageing bridges across the UK rail industry network, many from the Victorian era, require proven solutions which minimise disruption. This widely recognised and established carbon-fibre reinforced polymer strengthening solution can be installed overnight when using the new Sika CarboHeater® to encourage earlier curing, even at lower temperatures. Fixing and futureproofing critical infrastructure such as bridges has never been more important. When it comes to the upgrade and maintenance of these vital assets, Sika has the long-term refurbishment solutions that will stand the test of time. Visit www.sika.co.ukJun 20, 2019 0 -
A proven all-rounder, mastic asphalt screed offers the versatility and speed of application that other more traditional cement screeds just can’t match. With deadlines, timelines and budgetary issues taking centre stage on projects, it’s important to know there’s a screed which is always up for the challenge. No matter what the application, a mastic asphalt screed will offer a stable and cost-effective base for all manner of waterproofing applications from green roofs to car parks. Made from selected bitumens, limestone filler and specially graded aggregates, its flexibility and fast curing time enable the applicator to achieve precise falls quickly and more efficiently, level out uneven substrates and provide a stable base for a specified roofing deck system. It’s designed for use on in-situ, pre-cast concrete bases, timber and plywood and is suitable for use below cold roofs, insulated warm roofs, inverted insulated roofs and all green roofs. Furthermore, it is a proven solution in balcony, terrace applications as well as walkways, footbridges and car park/HGV service decks. It can receivemastic asphalt, felt systems, hot melt, liquid coatings and single-ply roofing. Busy building sites and inclement British weather may present an issue for some screeds, but in projects where a screed needs to be trafficked or overlaid quickly, mastic asphalt screed offers a rapid cooling process, a fast-track application and won’t impact on project timelines. This is because mastic asphalt has zero water content, which eliminates the time taken for moisture to evaporate in traditional screeds. Also, there is no risk of cement stained water getting into the underlying structure. With the screed thickness itself up to 80% less than traditional materials, it is also much lighter than conventional materials and ideal for both refurbishments and new builds. Available in three grades – light, medium and heavy - mastic asphalt screed can be supplied directly to site in purpose-built, hot-charge transporterscapable of holding 6 to 18 tonnes of material. As an alternative, it is also available in block form for re-melting on site. When it comes to screeds, a contractor wants a solution that is reliable, simple to apply and is proven time and time again. Mastic Asphalt screed does just that and is the flexible, versatile all-rounder that has the performance to match. Visit: http://www.masticasphaltcouncil.co.uk/0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build A proven all-rounder, mastic asphalt screed offers the versatility and speed of application that other more traditional cement screeds just can’t match. With deadlines, timelines and budgetary issues taking centre stage on projects, it’s important to know there’s a screed which is always up for the challenge. No matter what the application, a mastic asphalt screed will offer a stable and cost-effective base for all manner of waterproofing applications from green roofs to car parks. Made from selected bitumens, limestone filler and specially graded aggregates, its flexibility and fast curing time enable the applicator to achieve precise falls quickly and more efficiently, level out uneven substrates and provide a stable base for a specified roofing deck system. It’s designed for use on in-situ, pre-cast concrete bases, timber and plywood and is suitable for use below cold roofs, insulated warm roofs, inverted insulated roofs and all green roofs. Furthermore, it is a proven solution in balcony, terrace applications as well as walkways, footbridges and car park/HGV service decks. It can receivemastic asphalt, felt systems, hot melt, liquid coatings and single-ply roofing. Busy building sites and inclement British weather may present an issue for some screeds, but in projects where a screed needs to be trafficked or overlaid quickly, mastic asphalt screed offers a rapid cooling process, a fast-track application and won’t impact on project timelines. This is because mastic asphalt has zero water content, which eliminates the time taken for moisture to evaporate in traditional screeds. Also, there is no risk of cement stained water getting into the underlying structure. With the screed thickness itself up to 80% less than traditional materials, it is also much lighter than conventional materials and ideal for both refurbishments and new builds. Available in three grades – light, medium and heavy - mastic asphalt screed can be supplied directly to site in purpose-built, hot-charge transporterscapable of holding 6 to 18 tonnes of material. As an alternative, it is also available in block form for re-melting on site. When it comes to screeds, a contractor wants a solution that is reliable, simple to apply and is proven time and time again. Mastic Asphalt screed does just that and is the flexible, versatile all-rounder that has the performance to match. Visit: http://www.masticasphaltcouncil.co.uk/Sep 16, 2017 0
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In recent years, due to an increase in flooding and public awareness of flood prevention, the permeable resin bound paving market has grown considerably. But as resin bound becomes more popular and the number of companies selling it increases, there is a growing number of people selling inferior products, cheaper and creating a bad reputation for a premium paving product that when installed correctly will last up to 25 years. As it is a relatively new product, it’s one of only a few trades within the construction industry without a governing body or Trade Association of its own; and, apart from the Paving Expert website, there isn’t anywhere to go for independent advice about resin bound paving. Nearly 20 years ago SureSet revolutionised the concept of clear resin bound paving for external use. They remain as passionate and excited about the product as they were in 1997, and to help you out have put together a list of ten reasons to choose resin bound paving… 1 It’s permeable: cold mixed on site using a process that ensures every particle of stone is completely covered in resin; forming a structurally stable 3D matrix. During the laying process, minute voids are created that allows water to drain through. 2 It’s aesthetically pleasing: not only is it decorative, resin bound paving is sustainable, practical and versatile. 3 It’s resistant to weather conditions: doesn’t soften in summer, freeze in winter or fade in sunlight. 4 Its longevity:resin bound paving is a long lasting durable surface. While guarantees vary between 10 – 18 years, when properly maintained, can last for up to 25 years. 5 It requires minimal maintenance: there are no weeds to weed or lose stone to sweep. A regular brush and occasional power wash will keep it looking as good as new. 6 It provides natural filtration: as surface or rain water seeps through the sub-base a natural filtration takes place – reducing or removing impurities and pollutants caused by oils and metals. 7 It reduces standing water (puddles): which in turn reduces surface water run-off and flash flooding. 8 It’s SuDS compliant (Sustainable urban Drainage Systems): a water management system introduced by the Environment Agency to help manage flood risk and water quality. 9 It reduces the ‘heat island’ effect: heat islands happen because hard surfaces, like asphalt and concrete, absorb and store heat. Permeable paving allows the soil underneath to breathe, which reduces surface temperatures and thereby the ‘heat island’ effect. 10 No planning permission required: Since government legislation in 2008, planning permission is not required for areas less than 5m² or if the new surface is permeable. In comparison to traditional paving options that… Are impermeable Look more ‘industrial’ like Are not weather resistant Have a relatively short functional life Require more maintenance Create puddles and contributes to flash flooding Are not SuDS compliant (Sustainable urban Drainage Systems): a water management system introduced by the Environment Agency to help manage flood risk and water quality, and therefore require planning permission. Retain heat and contribute to the ‘heat island’ effect. You will find more useful information about resin bound paving on these Blogs: What resin bound paving can look like after 18 years. Why you should purchase on quality not cost. Top Tips for choosing a resin bound paving company. Author: Gail Gilkes, Head of Marketing, SureSet UK Ltd. Visit: https://www.sureset.co.uk/0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build In recent years, due to an increase in flooding and public awareness of flood prevention, the permeable resin bound paving market has grown considerably. But as resin bound becomes more popular and the number of companies selling it increases, there is a growing number of people selling inferior products, cheaper and creating a bad reputation for a premium paving product that when installed correctly will last up to 25 years. As it is a relatively new product, it’s one of only a few trades within the construction industry without a governing body or Trade Association of its own; and, apart from the Paving Expert website, there isn’t anywhere to go for independent advice about resin bound paving. Nearly 20 years ago SureSet revolutionised the concept of clear resin bound paving for external use. They remain as passionate and excited about the product as they were in 1997, and to help you out have put together a list of ten reasons to choose resin bound paving… 1 It’s permeable: cold mixed on site using a process that ensures every particle of stone is completely covered in resin; forming a structurally stable 3D matrix. During the laying process, minute voids are created that allows water to drain through. 2 It’s aesthetically pleasing: not only is it decorative, resin bound paving is sustainable, practical and versatile. 3 It’s resistant to weather conditions: doesn’t soften in summer, freeze in winter or fade in sunlight. 4 Its longevity:resin bound paving is a long lasting durable surface. While guarantees vary between 10 – 18 years, when properly maintained, can last for up to 25 years. 5 It requires minimal maintenance: there are no weeds to weed or lose stone to sweep. A regular brush and occasional power wash will keep it looking as good as new. 6 It provides natural filtration: as surface or rain water seeps through the sub-base a natural filtration takes place – reducing or removing impurities and pollutants caused by oils and metals. 7 It reduces standing water (puddles): which in turn reduces surface water run-off and flash flooding. 8 It’s SuDS compliant (Sustainable urban Drainage Systems): a water management system introduced by the Environment Agency to help manage flood risk and water quality. 9 It reduces the ‘heat island’ effect: heat islands happen because hard surfaces, like asphalt and concrete, absorb and store heat. Permeable paving allows the soil underneath to breathe, which reduces surface temperatures and thereby the ‘heat island’ effect. 10 No planning permission required: Since government legislation in 2008, planning permission is not required for areas less than 5m² or if the new surface is permeable. In comparison to traditional paving options that… Are impermeable Look more ‘industrial’ like Are not weather resistant Have a relatively short functional life Require more maintenance Create puddles and contributes to flash flooding Are not SuDS compliant (Sustainable urban Drainage Systems): a water management system introduced by the Environment Agency to help manage flood risk and water quality, and therefore require planning permission. Retain heat and contribute to the ‘heat island’ effect. You will find more useful information about resin bound paving on these Blogs: What resin bound paving can look like after 18 years. Why you should purchase on quality not cost. Top Tips for choosing a resin bound paving company. Author: Gail Gilkes, Head of Marketing, SureSet UK Ltd. Visit: https://www.sureset.co.uk/Sep 11, 2017 0
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Offering exceptional durability, waterproofing and skid resistance, mastic asphalt has been used across the globe on all manner of paving applications for more than a century – from surfacing the pavements around Tower Bridge in London to hundreds of bridges and car parks and one of the biggest civil engineering projects in the world - where it is being used as a surface material on the 31 mile long Hong Kong bridge between Hong Kong and Macau. Used extensively as a long-life wearing surface in urban situations, where durability and consistency is paramount, modified bituminous materials such as mastic asphalt can bring real benefits to road and pathway construction. Delivering better and longer lasting walkways, and savings in total lifecycle costings, mastic asphalt is capable of out-performing and outlasting all other comparable materials. Slip and skid resistance can be provided in the wearing course of mastic asphalt by sand rubbing, surface crimping or the application of high polished stone value pre-coated chippings. For local authorities and public pathway specifiers, this added functionality further enhances the material’s suitability for public areas – and reduces the potential for any slips and trips. Another major advantage with mastic asphalt is that it can be laid at speed, reducing the project costs significantly. It also cools very rapidly, allowing foot traffic within two to three hours, depending upon ambient temperature. Recent projects where the application of mastic asphalt has been proven include work to pavements around Tower Bridge by Infallible Systems and to the Selby Swing Bridge in Yorkshire by BriggsAmasco, where the company machine-laid a waterproof mastic asphalt wearing course for the 1200m2 bridge deck in just five days. Testament to the potential speed of application is currently in China where mastic asphalt paving is being mechanically laid on the Hong Kong bridge at a staggering rate of 6000m2 per day. With most of the world’s paved roads surfaced with asphalt, the versatility of mastic asphalt is legendary. This reliable, well-tested product gives good performance and durability under the most heavily-trafficked conditions, and as a paving material, is tough to beat. Visit: http://www.masticasphaltcouncil.co.uk/0 Posted by Talk. Build
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By Talk. Build Offering exceptional durability, waterproofing and skid resistance, mastic asphalt has been used across the globe on all manner of paving applications for more than a century – from surfacing the pavements around Tower Bridge in London to hundreds of bridges and car parks and one of the biggest civil engineering projects in the world - where it is being used as a surface material on the 31 mile long Hong Kong bridge between Hong Kong and Macau. Used extensively as a long-life wearing surface in urban situations, where durability and consistency is paramount, modified bituminous materials such as mastic asphalt can bring real benefits to road and pathway construction. Delivering better and longer lasting walkways, and savings in total lifecycle costings, mastic asphalt is capable of out-performing and outlasting all other comparable materials. Slip and skid resistance can be provided in the wearing course of mastic asphalt by sand rubbing, surface crimping or the application of high polished stone value pre-coated chippings. For local authorities and public pathway specifiers, this added functionality further enhances the material’s suitability for public areas – and reduces the potential for any slips and trips. Another major advantage with mastic asphalt is that it can be laid at speed, reducing the project costs significantly. It also cools very rapidly, allowing foot traffic within two to three hours, depending upon ambient temperature. Recent projects where the application of mastic asphalt has been proven include work to pavements around Tower Bridge by Infallible Systems and to the Selby Swing Bridge in Yorkshire by BriggsAmasco, where the company machine-laid a waterproof mastic asphalt wearing course for the 1200m2 bridge deck in just five days. Testament to the potential speed of application is currently in China where mastic asphalt paving is being mechanically laid on the Hong Kong bridge at a staggering rate of 6000m2 per day. With most of the world’s paved roads surfaced with asphalt, the versatility of mastic asphalt is legendary. This reliable, well-tested product gives good performance and durability under the most heavily-trafficked conditions, and as a paving material, is tough to beat. Visit: http://www.masticasphaltcouncil.co.uk/Aug 15, 2017 0
