At CONFAST, we’ve got your concrete anchoring needs covered. Whether you’re working on a DIY project or managing a construction site, our wide range of high-quality fasteners ensures your structures stay rock-solid. Order online at https://www.confast.com/
At Trimble Dimensions 2022 HP showed its new SitePrint robot, giving IRONPROS its first chance to get an up close look at this new layout robot. Technology editor Chuck Rathmann takes you through how the HP SitePrint works and the competition it faces in the robotic layout space.
Complete guide for installing the CONFAST® 1/4″-20 x 2-1/4″ Male Hurricane Anchoring Kit for Storm Panels, Plywood and Metal Panels (25 Sets, 1 Driver, Total 76 Pieces) Buy now: https://www.confast.com/HAM14214
Fight Shrinkage Cracking With Magnesium Oxide Admixture In Concrete Water & Wastewater Structures
Shrinkage cracking threatens concrete water containment structures. One of the ways to prevent or minimize shrinkage cracking is using a magnesium oxide additive in the concrete mix.
Complete guide for installing the CONFAST® 1/4″-20 x 2-1/4″ Male Hurricane Anchoring Kit for Storm Panels, Plywood and Metal Panels (25 Sets, 1 Driver, Total 76 Pieces) Buy now: https://www.confast.com/HAM14214 CONFAST 1/4″-20 x 2-1/4″ Male Hurricane anchors install quicker and more efficiently than other storm protection anchoring products. For concrete and concrete block applications, drill pilot hole and drive the anchor in, it’s that easy. Pre-drilling is not required in wood base materials. Full thread engagement in concrete, concrete block and wood is required for best performance. Stucco-faced surfaces usually require countersinking so that the top of the hurricane anchors set flush to the stucco surface, allowing for full thread engagement in the base material All CONFAST hurricane anchor installations are required to be compliant with the shutter/panel manufacturer’s spacing, alignment and build-out requirements. Hurricane Anchor Kit includes 25 sets of anchors, wing nuts, and anchor protectors Kit contains 1 driver Made of Carbon Steel w/ White Ruspert Coating Install one time, the anchors stay in place to make future panel mounting faster and easier Use 7/32″ bit in Concrete, 3/16″ bit in Concrete Block Uses standard 1/4-20 hardware
These smaller concrete mixers are great for city or urban projects
Divergence from the original plans on construction projects is unavoidable. But that doesn’t have to lead to a problem.
Subcontractors often must balance the demands of owners, government agencies and general contractors, all while trying to make a profit.
But the construction industry is also rife with defects, change order disputes and project delays. When these issues arise, a subcontractor is often faced with the choice of “getting the work done” while trying to preserve the chance of “getting more work.”
Blue and stainless concrete screws are specialized types of screws designed for specific applications, particularly in construction and woodworking projects involving concrete or masonry surfaces. They offer unique features and benefits that make them valuable for these types of projects.
Blue Concrete Screws:
Blue concrete screws, also known as blue-tap concrete screws, are designed for fastening objects to concrete, brick, or masonry surfaces without the need for anchors or pre-drilling holes. They have a blue coating, which often provides corrosion resistance and enhances their overall durability. Here are some uses and values of blue concrete screws:
Ease of Installation: Blue concrete screws are self-tapping, which means they have a special thread design that allows them to cut into concrete without the need for pre-drilling. This makes installation faster and more convenient compared to traditional methods.
Strong Hold: These screws are designed to provide a strong and reliable hold in concrete and masonry materials. They can securely fasten items like electrical boxes, framing, brackets, and other fixtures.
Corrosion Resistance: The blue coating on these screws often provides a level of corrosion resistance, making them suitable for both indoor and outdoor applications where exposure to moisture and weathering is a concern.
Versatility: Blue concrete screws can be used in various applications, such as attaching wooden or metal items to concrete walls, securing door frames, or mounting shelving units.
Stainless Concrete Screws:
Stainless concrete screws, as the name suggests, are screws made from stainless steel, a material known for its exceptional corrosion resistance. These screws are particularly valuable in applications where exposure to moisture, chemicals, or outdoor conditions is a concern. Here’s why stainless concrete screws are valuable:
Corrosion Resistance: Stainless steel is highly resistant to rust and corrosion, making stainless concrete screws ideal for environments where moisture, humidity, or chemical exposure could compromise the integrity of regular screws.
Longevity: Due to their corrosion-resistant properties, stainless concrete screws have a longer lifespan compared to standard screws or even coated screws. This makes them suitable for both indoor and outdoor projects.
Aesthetic Appeal: Stainless steel has a polished and sleek appearance that can enhance the visual appeal of projects, especially in applications where the screws are visible, such as decorative fixtures or architectural elements.
High Strength: Stainless steel is inherently strong, allowing these screws to provide a reliable and sturdy hold when fastening items to concrete or masonry surfaces.
Versatility: Just like blue concrete screws, stainless concrete screws can be used in a wide range of applications, including construction, woodworking, and various DIY projects.
Both blue and stainless concrete screws offer specific advantages based on their design and properties. The choice between the two depends on factors such as the intended application, environmental conditions, and the desired level of corrosion resistance and aesthetics. Always ensure that you choose the appropriate screw type for your specific project to achieve the best results.
Order both online at https://www.confast.com/confast-concrete-screws/
One of the concrete projects going on in Orlando this summer. They are re-enforcing the wall for the train tracks that go through the Ivanhoe area.
This week’s “I Spy” concrete fasteners in use…gate out of nowhere and garage parking lot expansion joint.
Construction Humor for your week
Guide
Below are descriptions and common names for the concrete fasteners. Use this to find the right fastener for your project. Then simply click on the photo or name of the fastener to buy. https://www.confast.com/fastener-selection-guide/
CONFAST® Wedge Anchors are designed to be used in solid concrete. They should never be used in porous, hollow materials, such as brick or CMU block. The CONFAST® Wedge Anchors are manufactured from different types of materials and coatings for installation in a range of environments. The wide choice of diameters available allow the CONFAST® Wedge Anchor to be used in applications varying from light to heavy duty. The Wedge Anchor has the most consistent holding values in solid concrete than all other types of expansion anchors. The expansion clip that is permanently attached to the CONFAST® Wedge Anchor is made from the same grade of material as the anchor body, with the exception of the galvanized, which has a 304 stainless steel clip.
Four different types of CONFAST® Wedge Anchors to choose from: • Zinc Plated Carbon Steel – for indoor applications where moisture is not present • Galvanized Carbon Steel – used in outdoor applications where moisture is present • 304 Stainless Steel – designed for wet/submerged outdoor applications • 316 Stainless Steel – primarily used in applications where certain chemicals may be present Order online at confast.com #concretefasteners#concrete#concreteconstruction#concretecontractor #CONFAST#wedgeanchor
POURING CONCRETE IN HOT WEATHER
Why is hot weather a problem? What temperature is too hot to pour concrete?
How to Make a Successful Claim Under a Contractor’s Payment Bond
Subcontractors must do three things to get the money due to them, an AIA lawyer says.
In all, ensuring that you make a proper bond claim is a vital step in receiving payment for unpaid work on a project from a surety under a payment bond. If you fail to follow the claims procedure or other requirements set forth in the bond, you may risk having your claim denied by the surety.
NEW DETAILS: First steel beam installed at Honda/LG Jeffersonville battery plant
It’s a construction milestone — the first steel beam was installed at what will be the new joint venture electric vehicle battery production plant for Honda and LG Energy Solution.
Honda said Tuesday the first beam was installed at the construction site in Fayette County’s Jefferson Twp., near Jeffersonville.
The many considerations for choosing the proper cement screw to use for any particular application are described in the following:
Diameter
Standard cement screws come in two diameters of 3/16” and 1/4”. The measurement refers to the outside diameter of the screw, which allows the screw to be inserted through a hole in the fixture equal to the diameter of the cement screw being installed.
Length
Each diameter of cement screw comes in different lengths from 1-1/4” long to 6”. The minimum length of cement screw used for any particular application is determined by adding the thickness of the material being fastened to the minimum embedment of 1”. The maximum length of cement screw to use is equal to the maximum embedment of 1-3/4” plus the thickness of the material being fastened.
Hole Depth
The depth of the hole is critical because it must be deep enough to allow the cement screw to be embedded at least to the minimum embedment depth of 1”. Space must be left at the bottom of the hole to allow all the dust that is created during the tapping process to fall into and out of the way. It is suggested that the hole is drilled a minimum of 1/4”deeper than the cement screw will penetrate the base material.
Diameter of Hole
The hole drilled in the base material is critical to allow the cement screw to obtain its minimum holding strength. The hole must be drilled using a carbide tipped bit that meets ANSI standards because ANSI standards will ensure proper hole to anchor tolerance. The 3/16” cement screw requires a 5/32” bit and the 1/4” diameter needs a 3/16” bit.
Materials
Cement screws are manufactured from two types of steel: low carbon plated and 410 stainless steel. The standard low carbon cement screw should be used in indoor dry applications. The 410 stainless steel can be used in applications where moisture may be present.
Head Configuration for Cement Screws
Two head styles are available: hex washer and flat countersunk. The hex washer head utilizes a nut driver for installation and the flat countersunk requires the use of a Phillips drive. The length of the hex head cement screws are measured from underneath the head and the flat countersunk are measured as an overall length. The hex headed cement screws are used in applications where the head of the screw sits on top of the item being fastened. The flat countersunk cement screw is used in applications where the head of the screw is countersunk into the item being attached.
Base Materials
The cement screw can be used in solid concrete, hollow precast concrete, brick, CMU, block and mortar joints. The holding strength of the cement screw is dependent on the strength of the base material as well as on the quality of the installation.
Use
Cement screws can be removed, but should not be reused in the same hole because holding values may be diminished or nonexistent. Using the cement screw in another hole can be done as long as the cutting edge of the screw is able to tap threads.
Brand Name
The most popular brand name for cement screws is Tapcon®. Tapcon screws are sold by Concrete Fastening Systems™, Inc., located in Cleveland, Ohio. The Tapcon brand cement screws are made in America and can be shipped anywhere in the United States with an arrival in two days. We also make and sell our own brand of masonry screws for cement applications – CONFAST® masonry screws. Our brand is comparable to Tapcon but sold at a lower price due to lack of a middleman distributor.
Concrete Supply Plus Construction Humor for the week.
How a Contractor Effectively Managed Cement Shortages for a Project for Tech Giant Meta
The ongoing cement shortage continues to be a major pain point for many firms in the concrete construction industry, but having hard conversations early on can set your project up for success, according to one contractor.
Keila Lombardozzi, a superintendent with Arizona-based DCR Construction, said the cement shortage and the challenges it poses can be a touchy subject in the industry.
Change orders are common in construction projects, but many contractors don’t charge clients for all changes or their related costs. Timothy Faller, a Maryland remodeler turned consultant, said during an educational session at the International Builders’ Show recently there are seven big mistakes construction companies make regarding change orders and provided solutions for how to get paid for all of them. https://constructionext.com/commercial-residential/how-get-paid-every-change-order?
CONFAST concrete wedge anchors’ design allows them to anchor fixtures into concrete. Concrete wedge anchors work by inserting them into a hole drilled into concrete. The concrete wedge anchor is then expanded, wedging itself securely in the concrete. USES • CONFAST® wedge anchors are designed to be used in solid concrete. • They should never be used in CMU block or brick base material. • Available in a wide range of diameters ranging from 1/4″ to 1-1/4″. The anchor lengths, which depend on the diameter, are from 1-3/4″ to 12″. • CONFAST® wedge anchors are packaged with the proper size and quantities of nuts and washers. • Hole size to be drilled in the concrete is equal to the diameter of CONFAST® wedge anchor being installed. • Available in zinc plated carbon steel for indoor dry applications, hot-dipped galvanized for moist outdoor applications, 304 stainless steel for wet outdoor applications and 316 stainless steel for use in caustic environment. • All sizes are in stock, and will ship from our Cleveland, Ohio warehouse the same day that the order is received.To order today: https://www.confast.com/products-wedge/
A housing complex outside Paris is touted as the world’s first fully recycled concrete building
Holcim, a Swiss provider of sustainable building solutions, has developed a concrete made with recycled construction and demolition waste, recycled wastewater, and rainwater.
At the beginning of the month, civil, building and specialty construction company Tutor Perini Corporation reported that it was awarded a design-build contract for the New York City Borough-Based Jails System.
The contract, valued at approximately $2.95 billion by the New York City Department of Design and Construction, is specifically for the Brooklyn Facility. Four new borough jails are slated to replace the aging facilities on Rikers Island, which will close permanently in 2027.
Design work is expected to commence following the receipt of a Notice to Proceed, which the company anticipates in June of this year.
What Qualifies A Concrete Contractor For The R&D Tax Credit
There are four criteria for concrete work done to qualify for the Research & Development Tax. Let’s examine what these are.
The Research & Development Tax Credit (R&D) comes into play if a contractor develops a new process to improve efficiencies or experiments with innovative ways to reduce or eliminate uncertainty within their business. If there was experimentation and/or testing done during the construction of a parking garage – for example – this work is where the R&D Tax Credit would be applied and considered. While it has been available in the Internal Revenue Code (IRC) for a while, it has unfortunately not been widely regarded.
Orlando construction retail project in the Mills 50 area: https://mills50.org/
IPAF Releases New Guidance on Avoiding Contact with Power Lines
The International Powered Access Federation (IPAF) released new guidance outlining key principles and ways to reduce risks when using mobile elevating work platforms in the vicinity of power lines, with the aim of helping to reduce electrocution.
Visit www.ipaf.org/resources to view or download the new IPAF Safe Use of MEWPs in the Vicinity of Power Lines guidance document. For more information about High Voltage! as well as Don’t Fall For It! and all of IPAF’s targeted safety campaigns see www.ipaf.org/safe and continue to use www.ipafaccidentreporting.org to report incidents and near misses involving powered access.
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Mongoose saws and sawing blades. Tips on using this machine to cut intricate designs in concrete surfaces before coloring. The Concrete Network presents Tools of the Trade with Bob Harris. https://youtu.be/89dnsz_77Zk
Dodge: Top 10 Markets Saw Solid Commercial, Multifamily Gains in 2022
Led by New York, Dallas, and Washington DC, nine metropolitan areas reported increases of more than 33% for the year, according to Dodge Construction Network.
Concrete Can Be Messy, But These Concrete Vibrators Ensure Smooth Results
Another important aspect of dealing with concrete is ensuring that it has a good consistency once it sets. When it’s being poured there can be a lot of air bubbles. This can reduce the structural integrity and appearance of concrete, which is why it’s important to minimize the number of air bubbles. That’s where concrete vibrators come in. As the name suggests, they vigorously vibrate concrete to ensure a smooth and even finish. There are a few different kinds of concrete vibration, including form vibration, surface vibration, and internal vibration. Internal vibration is the focus of the options below because it can be done by a single operator. The way it works is by inserting a probe attached to a hose into the concrete. The end vibrates to deliver even consistency.
New York officials have awarded the first construction contract for a controversial $2.3-billion highway project in Syracuse that would remove the I-81 viaduct running through the city. But it is unclear when work can begin since project work remains halted by a state court injunction won by opponents.
Earlier this month, a state supreme court judge heard arguments from attorneys representing the state and the plan’s opponents. He has not yet issued a decision.
Photo Caption: The Wave, in the town center of Lake Nona, Fla., expresses its affinity with the surrounding development through its exterior design. The hotel’s guestrooms feature upscale finishes, a trend in the hospitality sector. Photo courtesy Balfour Beatty
Groundbreaking recently took place for a new event center at The Concours Club, Miami’s members-only motorsport facility. “The facility blends high-performance driving, impeccable service and luxury amenities within a spectacular resort setting,” according to Coastal Construction Group, the project’s general contractor.
Looking for an easy-to-use caulking gun? Look no further than our lightweight, flexible options. This lightweight, flexible, and easy-to-operate tool with smooth, consistent action is designed to be used on all types of caulking applications including general purpose sealants, primers and adhesives.
High-quality steel tube designed for standard 10 Oz caulk
