African Design Magazine ADM September 2017 | Page 28
TILT-UP: THE ACTUAL TECHNIQUE
Tilt-Up construction is moulded on site to requirement, it is then stacked on the
concrete foundation – six high – for ease of construction. The method involves
laying slabs, using a bond-breaker between the slab, floor, and casting.
Buildings like Gateway Shopping Centre, LaLucia Mall, Sibaya Casino and
Mall of the South have been built using this method.
Tilt-up construction allows general contractors to build a wide range of
commercial buildings quicker and with lower construction costs than what is
typical for traditional masonry construction projects.
Texas, California and Florida are currently the most popular states for tilt-up
concrete construction. In the northern states with more severe winter climates,
precast concrete buildings are more popular.
THE VERSATILITY OF TILT-UP
Tilt-up can be used for a wide range of structures. For example, one of the
larger tilt-up walls constructed in South Africa to date, measures 24 m in height
and 8 m in width.
Simply put, this is a highly accelerated technique that outstrips conventional
concrete construction when using the right application. Stronger than normal
walls requires the use of ready-mix concrete. Certified and tested concrete is
recommended. This enables builders to specify the exact quantities required for
each pour, keeping costs in line with budget and lessening wastage.
With tilt-up, contractors have the absolute assurance of applying a high tech
product for a relatively low-tech application. (This method makes use of 30mpa
concrete so it is likely to be stronger than most brick and mortar walls).
The final structural finish is simply limited by the design. All elements are
precast on the ground and then lifted into place using a mobile crane, with
minimal grouting needed to form the final structure.
The technique also lends itself to the South African government's focus on
promoting small, medium-sized and microenterprises development since tilt-
up is a perfect system for community-based low-cost housing and allied
projects like schools and clinics.
Tilt-up construction is simple and easy to get right the rst time.
With the right training, it can easily be done.
28 africandesignmagazine.com