The construction industry is continually evolving to find better techniques and follow modern building aesthetics. One method that has been used to improve new commercial buildings is tilt-up concrete or tilt-up construction. Offices, warehouses, retail, or other commercial manufacturing spaces can benefit from this construction technique.
This concrete casting method is used by our professionals at EK Bailey because of the many benefits it provides to our clients. This blog will look at the advantages and disadvantages of tilt-up buildings and what to consider before choosing it for your project.
What Is Tilt-Up Construction?
A construction technique that involves casting concrete elements horizontally at the job site and then tilting the panels to their final position in a structure. Concrete slabs are poured flat on the ground and then lifted into place with a crane. This method is more efficient and cost-effective for creating a durable building. Instead of creating walls brick-by-brick, casting the concrete and then lifting it is more economical.
Advantages Of Tilt-Up Buildings
There are many reasons why this construction method is common among builders and contractors. The advantages of tilt-up buildings continue beyond the building process as well. Below are some of the biggest reasons to choose tilt-up concrete construction.
Faster project completion is the biggest reason for utilizing tilt-up construction. Wall panels are cast on site and erected within days, rather than weeks or months, for other construction types. Tilt-up walls help eliminate the need for transportation and seasonal considerations. Creating the walls on the construction site will limit the risk of delays, especially for large projects.
For large square footage projects, tilt-up construction is more affordable. Tilt-up projects require fewer laborers to construct the walls, transport the materials, etc. Saving money on a large-scale project helps improve a business in other ways down the line.
Additional advantages of tilt-up concrete include:
- Design flexibility
- Energy efficiency
- Greater security
- Durability
- Longevity
- Enhanced safety
- Adaptable
Disadvantages Of Tilt-Up Construction
Just like any other new development in construction, there will be disadvantages along with the advantages. Tilt-up concrete construction is dependent on mild weather. The concrete needs to cure on the job site, so rain, snow, and wind may delay the curing process.
Erecting the panels requires a lot of space. You will need space on your job site to have a crane lift the tilt-up concrete walls and high clearance. If you are in an urban setting or have a small lot, a tilt-up project may not be the best choice.
Tilt-Up Vs. Precast Concrete
Precast concrete is manufactured off the job site and arrives at the construction site ready to be installed. Precast concrete has more consistency than tilt-up, but it takes longer to create and transport to a construction site.
Tilt-up concrete also allows for larger panels to be created. Since they are created on site, you can make them as large as you have the space for. Tilt-up walls can be over 50 feet tall without the need for joints or support bars that weaken a building.
Important Considerations To Have Before Installing Tilt-Up Concrete
In order to achieve effective implementation of tilt-up walls, you will need to consider space, cost, and other environmental factors before starting your project. These considerations can impact the look and longevity of a building.
Cost
While you can save money by choosing tilt-up construction, small or highly complex buildings may be a higher upfront investment. The costs of a crane rental, specialized equipment, and the on-site setup can be too much for some businesses. Before construction begins, make sure to research all costs of a tilt-up project and budget appropriately.
Seismic Design Considerations
If you are building in an earthquake-heavy zone, your tilt-up walls need to be engineered for seismic activity. Later forces and joint movement need to be considered so that a building will withstand the shaking of a major earthquake. Advanced anchor systems will be required in high-seismic activity zones.
Early Coordination
All teams will need to communicate early on in the process to ensure proper construction and panel lifting. Early planning is the best way to avoid costly repairs or project delays in construction. Especially if you are working with multiple companies or contractors, early coordination is key.
Tilt-Up Buildings From EK Bailey
Our team uses tilt-up construction methods to ensure your project is completed in a timely manner. EK Bailey has been in the commercial construction industry for many years, meaning that we know what it takes to create a long-lasting building. Tilt-up buildings are extremely durable, which is why we suggest them for many of our commercial customers. Reach out to our experts to get started on your project today!
