Navigating Regulations: Compliance Considerations for Parking Garages Construction Projects

October 23, 2024

Parking garage construction projects are becoming increasingly common in urban areas where the demand for parking spaces continues to rise. However, constructing a parking garage is not as straightforward as it may seem. There are various regulations and compliance considerations that must be taken into account to ensure the safety and legality of the project. Failure to comply with these regulations can result in delays, fines, and even legal consequences. As such, it is crucial for developers and contractors to have a thorough understanding of these regulations and how to navigate them effectively.

At TG Basile, our construction consultants are well-versed in the myriad of compliance considerations that parking garage construction projects entail. From ensuring proper zoning permits to abiding by local and federal safety standards, we provide guidance throughout every phase of your project. Our expert team offers advice on adhering to strict building codes, effectively managing environmental impact, and even meeting ADA accessibility requirements.

How Do Building Codes and Standards Affect Parking Garage Construction?

Building codes and standards are critical in shaping the design, construction, and operation of parking garages. They set minimum requirements for structural integrity, fire safety, ventilation, and accessibility, ensuring that parking facilities are safe and reliable. For instance, structural standards dictate the materials and design methods that can be used, ensuring the garage can withstand load requirements and environmental stresses.

Fire safety codes specify requirements for fire-resistant materials, the placement of fire exits, and the installation of fire suppression systems. Ventilation standards are also crucial, especially for enclosed garages, to manage exhaust fumes and maintain air quality. Additionally, the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) imposes accessibility requirements, such as a minimum number of accessible parking spaces and proper signage, to accommodate individuals with disabilities.

Adhering to these codes and standards not only affects the physical structure of the parking garage but also influences project timelines and budgets. Contractors and developers must integrate these compliance measures from the initial design phase to avoid costly modifications and rework later in the construction process, ensuring the project proceeds smoothly and meets all regulatory obligations.

How to Ensure Compliance Throughout the Construction Process

Pre-construction planning is a crucial phase where compliance planning should be integrated from the outset. Engaging compliance consultants early on helps identify all relevant regulations and codes the parking garage construction project must adhere to. These experts assist in developing a comprehensive compliance checklist and timeline, ensuring that all regulatory requirements are incorporated into the project plan. This proactive approach allows for the identification and mitigation of potential compliance issues before they arise, streamlining the construction process.

Monitoring and documentation throughout the construction phase are imperative for maintaining compliance. Regular monitoring ensures that the project adheres to the established regulations and standards, with onsite inspections verifying the proper implementation of compliance measures. Documentation plays a pivotal role, with detailed records of inspections, permits, and approvals serving as evidence of compliance. Leveraging technology, such as compliance management software, can facilitate the tracking of compliance progress, making it easier to identify and address any deviations from the established standards in a timely manner.

How to Avoid the Consequences of Non-Compliance

Non-compliance in parking garage construction can lead to serious legal and financial repercussions. Fines for failing to meet regulatory standards can be substantial, adding unexpected costs that impact the overall budget. Project delays are another common penalty, as work may need to be halted to address compliance issues, further inflating costs and extending timelines. Additionally, there is the risk of litigation and liability concerns if non-compliance leads to accidents or injuries, exposing developers and contractors to potential lawsuits and reputational damage.

To mitigate these risks, staying informed about the latest regulatory changes is essential. Regular training and education sessions for the construction team can ensure that everyone is aware of current standards and practices. Employing third-party audits and reviews throughout the construction process can also provide an objective assessment of compliance, identifying potential issues before they become problematic. This proactive approach not only helps avoid the negative consequences of non-compliance but also contributes to the successful and timely completion of the parking garage construction project.

Ensure Compliance With TG Basile for Your Parking Garage Construction

At TG Basile, we understand that navigating the complex regulations of parking garage construction can be daunting. With over 50 years of experience, our team offers unparalleled expertise in ensuring every aspect of your project meets stringent compliance standards. From zoning permits to ADA requirements, we provide comprehensive guidance to keep your project on track and within legal parameters.

Working with TG Basile means minimizing risks and avoiding costly delays. Our consultants are dedicated to delivering superior quality and meticulous attention to detail. Trust us to manage your compliance needs effectively, ensuring a seamless construction process. Contact us today at 908-241-1035 or through our contact form to learn more about how we can support your parking garage construction project.

Parking Garage

Parking Garage Restoration: Saving Money And Lives Through Proactive Maintenance

April 22, 2024

Parking garages are essential structures in urban infrastructure, providing security and convenience. However, these multi-level facilities face constant wear and tear from heavy traffic, harsh weather conditions, and the passage of time. Without proper maintenance and timely restoration efforts, parking garages can deteriorate rapidly, posing significant safety risks and financial burdens. Conversely, proactive maintenance not only extends the lifespan of parking structures, but also provides financial and safety benefits.

FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF PROACTIVE PARKING GARAGE MAINTENANCE.

Investing in proactive maintenance is a prudent financial decision, saving property owners significant costs in the long run. Regular inspections and preventive measures identify minor issues before they escalate, reducing the need for costly repairs. Addressing concrete deterioration, corrosion, and waterproofing failures proactively extends the garage’s lifespan and averts emergency expenses.

SAFETY BENEFITS OF PROACTIVE PARKING GARAGE MAINTENANCE.

Beyond financial savings, proactive maintenance ensures the safety of garage users. Deteriorating concrete and water infiltration compromise structural integrity, posing hazards like falling debris, slip-and-fall accidents, or collapses. Regular inspections and prompt maintenance mitigate safety risks, creating a secure environment for motorists and pedestrians.

RECENT PARKING GARAGE
CATASTROPHES

The collapse of Champlain Towers South in Surfside, Florida, on June 24, 2021, shook the nation with its devastating toll. Ninety-eight lives were tragically lost, and eleven others sustained injuries. The collapse also led to the displacement of many residents. Investigations revealed that long-term degradation of reinforced concrete structural support in the basement-level parking garage, due to water penetration and corrosion of reinforcing steel, was a contributing factor. Despite prior reports highlighting structural concerns, the necessary remedial works had not commenced, emphasizing the critical need for proactive maintenance and timely structural interventions to avert such catastrophic outcomes.

In Manhattan, New York, on April 18, 2023, the partial collapse of a parking garage building at 57 Ann Street further underscored the dire consequences of neglected maintenance. The collapse claimed one life, caused injuries to five individuals, and necessitated the evacuation of neighboring buildings. This tragic incident prompted the city government to implement mandatory examinations of parking garages across the city. Despite multiple building violations and ongoing maintenance issues reported since 1957, including concrete defects and structural deficiencies, the necessary repairs were not adequately addressed at 57 Ann Street. Once again, the resulting collapse serves as a stark reminder of the imperative to prioritize regular inspections, promptly address building violations, and invest in proactive maintenance to safeguard lives and prevent catastrophic structural failures.

COMMON ISSUES FACED IN PARKING GARAGE REHABILITATION PROJECTS.

Parking garage rehabilitation addresses concrete deterioration, steel corrosion, and waterproofing failures. Strategies like regular inspections and preventive maintenance, partnered with commercial masonry contractors like TG Basile, offer tailored restoration solutions. From concrete repairs to waterproofing systems, proactive measures ensure longevity and durability against environmental factors.

STRATEGIES FOR COST-EFFECTIVE RESTORATION PLANNING AND EXECUTION:

To ensure cost-effective restoration, property owners must prioritize proactive maintenance, regular inspections, and preventive measures. Partnering with TG Basile ensures top-of-the-line tailored solutions—including concrete repairs, structural reinforcement, waterproofing systems, and protective coatings—to extend the lifespan of parking structures and enhance durability against environmental factors.

SAFETY, FINANCIAL SECURITY AND AESTHETICS.

Parking garage restoration goes beyond aesthetics, safeguarding users and investments. Proactive maintenance saves money, mitigates safety risks, and extends the structure’s lifespan. TG Basile employs over fifty years of experience to provide cost-effective restoration for long-term functionality. Invest in proactive maintenance today to save money and lives tomorrow, contact TG Basile today!

Building Restoration

Fire Resistance of Concrete Structures: Understanding Performance and Safety Standards

March 5, 2024

As a concrete contractor specializing in structural concrete, T.G. Basile understands the importance of safety and compliance. Among the various challenges faced in construction, ensuring fire resistance stands as a crucial aspect. Concrete, renowned for its innate strength and durability, also exhibits remarkable fire resistance properties, making it a preferred choice for mid-rise construction, warehouses, parking structures, and beyond.

The Strength of Concrete in Fire Scenarios

Concrete’s resilience to fire stems from its unique composition and structural properties. Unlike other building materials, concrete doesn’t combust. Instead, it undergoes a gradual process of dehydration and carbonization when exposed to high temperatures. This process slows down the rate of temperature increase within the structure, providing valuable time for occupants to evacuate and firefighters to intervene.

Material Composition: Key to Fire Resistance

The composition of concrete plays a pivotal role in its fire resistance. The mixture of cement, aggregates, and water creates a dense and compact material that can withstand high temperatures. Additionally, the inclusion of additives such as fly ash and slag can further enhance its fire resistance properties. T.G. Basile ensures meticulous attention to detail in concrete mix designs, optimizing them for structural integrity and fire performance.

Enhancing Fire Resistance

In fire scenarios, the thickness of concrete elements significantly influences their ability to withstand heat. Thicker concrete walls, floors, and columns provide greater thermal insulation, delaying the onset of structural failure. Through precise engineering and construction practices, T.G. Basile ensures that concrete elements meet or exceed required thickness standards, bolstering fire resistance and overall building safety.

Fireproofing Measures: A Complementary Approach

While concrete inherently possesses fire resistance, additional fireproofing measures can be implemented to further enhance safety. Intumescent coatings, spray-applied fire-resistant materials (SFRMs), and concrete encasement are common techniques employed to augment fire resistance in specific applications. T.G. Basile collaborates closely with clients and regulatory authorities to integrate appropriate fireproofing solutions tailored to project requirements.

Compliance with Safety Standards

Adherence to fire safety codes and standards is non-negotiable in construction projects. T.G. Basile prioritizes compliance with regulations such as the International Building Code (IBC), which specifies stringent requirements for fire resistance ratings of structural elements. By upholding these standards, we ensure that completed structures provide robust fire protection for occupants and assets.

Building Safety Through Concrete Excellence

In the realm of commercial construction, the fire resistance of concrete structures holds paramount importance. As a seasoned concrete contractor specializing in structural concrete, T.G. Basile remains dedicated to delivering exceptional quality and safety in every project. By leveraging the inherent fire resistance properties of concrete and implementing meticulous design and construction practices, T.G. Basile contributes to the creation of buildings that not only endure the test of time but also prioritize the safety and well-being of occupants. From mid-rise developments to sprawling warehouses and robust parking structures, T.G. Basile continues to set the standard for safety and performance in structural concrete construction.

Building Restoration

What Are Poured Concrete Foundation Walls?

January 9, 2024

Poured concrete foundations constitute the integral structural base of modern edifices, contributing substantial rigidity, load-bearing capacity, and longevity to the overarching construction. Renowned for their robustness, these foundations are a staple in both residential and commercial construction. They are meticulously engineered to mitigate potential vulnerabilities, ensuring the support of subsequent construction phases and the eventual occupants.

The Poured Concrete Wall Construction Process Explained

The intricate process for erecting poured concrete foundations begins with site excavation and progresses through the strategic placement of footings and formwork. This standard sequence involves expert commercial concrete contractors who apply their specialized knowledge to ensure structural integrity.

The steps include laying rebar-reinforced footings, erecting formwork, placing steel supports, and pouring high-grade concrete, followed by a curing period that varies based on environmental conditions.

Site preparation commences with the deployment of heavy machinery to excavate the designated area, precisely defining the structural blueprint’s perimeter. The excavation depth is determined by the architectural requirement for subterranean levels or utility conduits.
Subsequently, engineered footings, either cast in situ or precast, are situated within the excavation. These elongated, robust slabs, typically reinforced with steel rebar, function as the foundational support for the superstructure’s load-bearing elements.
Custom-designed formworks are then installed, delineating the spatial geometry of the future concrete walls. These forms are securely braced to withstand the hydrostatic pressure during concrete placement and to maintain structural fidelity during the curing phase.
Within these forms, a matrix of steel reinforcement is strategically arranged to fortify the concrete against tensile and shear stresses, optimizing the wall’s compressive strength capabilities.
High-performance concrete, selected for its suitability to the project’s specifications, is then meticulously poured into the forms, enveloping the reinforcement and forming a monolithic wall atop the footings.
The concrete undergoes a controlled curing process, after which the forms are stripped away, revealing the load-bearing walls. The duration of curing is contingent upon the mix design and prevailing environmental conditions, ranging from 3 to 10 days.

Following these steps, the integrity of the walls is verified before proceeding to the subsequent construction stage of flooring installation.

What Are the Major Benefits of Poured Concrete Walls?

Poured wall foundations typically surpass slabs or block constructions in continuity, reducing potential for leakage and structural weakness. The efficiency of poured walls often leads to cost and time savings. Contractors with expertise in poured concrete, like TG Basile, recommend this technique for its reliability and adaptability to complex geometries unachievable with block construction.

Is a Poured Wall Foundation Better Than Slabs or Blocks?

For specialized assistance in poured concrete foundation projects, TG Basile offers comprehensive guidance to ensure timely, specification-compliant, and budget-aligned completion. Contact us to learn more!

Building Restoration

Should Commercial Concrete Be Sealed?

November 21, 2023

To enhance the durability and longevity of concrete structures, from floor slabs to roof decks and walls, a commercial concrete contractor will often apply a sealant. This crucial step forms a protective barrier, safeguarding the concrete against the ravages of wear and tear, adverse weather conditions, water damage, chemical assaults, and the erosion inflicted by time. It’s not merely about pouring and drying; it’s a meticulous process that ensures resilience in the face of the elements.

The Major Benefits of Sealing Concrete in Commercial Construction

Concrete is inherently strong, but it is not impervious to damage from external factors such as moisture, chemicals, and weathering. To protect and enhance the longevity of concrete buildings, sealing surfaces becomes a crucial step in the construction process. Concrete surface preparation with high-quality sealant offers many benefits that go beyond mere protection. It improves appearance, increases durability, reduces maintenance costs, and ensures a safer environment for occupants.

Maintain Structural Integrity

Concrete preparation by sealing the surfaces keeps it strong and intact for longer lengths of time. This is the major benefit that is split into specifics in the separate sections below. Structural integrity matters for supporting projects like concrete slab prep or concrete roof decks. It also matters for less risky constructions like walkways or decorative elements.

Protection from Water Damage

Concrete, although extremely durable, is porous by nature and can absorb water over time. This absorption can lead to a range of issues such as cracks, mold growth, and erosion. By applying a high-quality concrete sealer, you create a protective layer that prevents water from penetrating the surface. This eliminates or slows down the most common and insidious source of damage that any structural concrete element faces.

Protection from UV Rays

Shielding concrete from the harmful effects of UV radiation is crucial. Many people are unaware that prolonged exposure to sunlight can cause significant damage to unprotected concrete. UV rays can penetrate the surface of concrete, causing color fading, discoloration, and even surface degradation over time. A quality sealant acts as a shield, preventing harmful ultraviolet rays from penetrating the surface and causing harm. This helps slow down structural deterioration caused by photochemical reactions within the concrete’s unique formula.

Protection from Chemicals

Proper sealing techniques stop the harmful effects of chemicals on poured concrete foundations and other building elements. This is especially important in industrial structures that work with chemicals, oil, or other petroleum products. Sealing the concrete safeguards against immediate accidents and provides resistance against gradual corrosion. This preventive measure ensures the longevity and durability of industrial infrastructure, minimizing maintenance costs and potential safety hazards.

Long-lasting Aesthetic Benefits

Whether you have a concrete floor in a commercial space or a patio in the backyard, sealing the concrete can provide an instant facelift. The process involves applying a protective layer on top of the concrete, creating a barrier that prevents stains, spills, and discoloration from penetrating the surface. This ensures that your concrete maintains its own innate color for years to come. This is especially important for decorative surfaces with pigments or patterns worked into the project.

One of the key advantages of commercial sealed concrete is its ability to enhance the overall appearance. A well-sealed concrete surface looks polished and clean, making it visually appealing for both residential and commercial settings. The sealant gives the surface a glossy finish, offering an added level of style to any space.

Save Money in the Long Run

No matter what type of concrete surface or structural element exists in a construction project, sealing it will make it last longer. Because professional-quality sealant application coats the surface so no water, chemicals, or UV rays can reach it, the material does not break down as quickly. You avoid a lot of cracks, chips, and overall deterioration of the concrete slab, floor, and walls.

With sealant, you can save money in two ways. First, you do not have to do as much maintenance and repair on the concrete surface. The best and most affordable option is to have high-quality sealant reapplied on a regular schedule. You will not have to pay for extensive crack repair every year. Secondly, the entire structure will last much longer. This means you will not have to pay to replace the structure or do repairs sooner than expected.

What Happens If You Do Not Seal Concrete?

If you opt not to seal your concrete, the benefits of properly sealing concrete disappear. This seems an obvious answer, but it outlines the issues faced when improper construction techniques are used. Failure to seal concrete can have detrimental consequences that can affect both the appearance and functionality of the structure. This is particularly concerning for commercial buildings exposed to harsh weather conditions or heavy foot traffic. The property owner ends up with much higher expenses for maintenance, repairs, and replacement earlier than expected.

Don’t let improper sealing of your concrete reduce the lifespan of your project. Contact a pro like T.G. Basile to give you proper advice on sealing your concrete.

Parking Garage

Guide to Concrete Strength Measurements

November 13, 2023

Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials in the world, especially within commercial and industrial projects. It is well known for both its versatility and durability. However, structural concrete needs accurate strength measurements to ensure these qualities are achieved. Strength measurements are essential for determining if a building or other structure can withstand the intended loads and the effects of a myriad of forces, such as weather and time.

Different Grades of Concrete Explained

A large part of concrete strength testing is designed to determine what grade each type is categorized as. Different varieties are graphed on a concrete strength curve, which helps contractors choose the best option for different projects. Here is a brief overview of commonly used grades in commercial construction.

This type has the lowest concrete strength. It is reserved for small residential or commercial projects, such as garden paths or decorative patio slabs, that will not see heavy foot traffic.

This is the next step up in concrete compressive strength, and suits indoor flooring and foundations, or walls for secondary buildings like residential garages and sheds.

This grade is safe to use for small foundations or driveways, and is considered a cost-effective but durable option.

This strength is the first heavy-duty concrete grade often used in heavy traffic parking lots, on-site roadways, or even public access streets.

Commercial structural projects frequently use this grade. It is featured heavily in commercial projects for exterior walls and structural components.

This is the most durable and strongest concrete available. Its primary uses include multi-story building foundations, septic tanks, and in projects where the concrete is expected to come in contact with strong chemicals.

Proper preparation, including pre-pour meetings and risk assessments, can help mitigate many of these difficulties and ensure a successful large concrete pour.
Reach out to the pros at TG Basile to help with your next large concrete installation.

What Strength Measurements Affect Concrete Quality?

Three different varieties of force are used to determine the concreate strength measurement for each grade or variety. These include concrete compression testing, concrete flexural stress, and concrete shear strength.

Compressive stress measures the ability of the concrete object to withstand things put on top of it. This includes structural elements like walls or additional floors as well as things like vehicles in a parking lot. Flexural stress of concrete measures the forces that stretch or elongate the structure. So, compression pushes downward while flexural pressure pulls it horizontally. Shear stress comes from perpendicular opposite forces exerting pressure in two directions at once.

Tensile strength of concrete is another factor that can play into the quality of the finished project. Concrete does not have much of this in general, so it is not used for those types of construction elements. Of course, it does need some. Tensile strength is about 10% of compression strength in general.

Some structures require higher resistance to one type of stress than another. For example, a parking lot needs a lot of compression stress durability but will not experience much need for shear stress. However, the best concrete for long-lasting construction should have high ratings in all of these.

Testing Concrete Strength Against Multiple Stresses

The basic measurement used for these tests is the PSI strength of concrete. PSI stands for pounds per square inch. Air pressure is around 15 PSI, but commercial construction projects must withstand a much higher number than that. Regular concrete PSI strength is around 3000 PSI. That means a square inch of hardened concrete can handle that amount before it fails structurally in some way.

How is this compression strength tested?
The American Society for Testing & Materials creates slabs of different grades of concrete. Then, they use a carefully calibrated machine to push down or compress these slabs until failure. The measurement before any cracks, chips, or breaks occur is the PSI strength of that concrete.

Tensile and flexural strength are tested in a very similar way. In these cases, the testing machines bend or exert oppositional force on the material until it bends or breaks. They use a concrete beam instead of a slab format.

Determining the Best Concrete Option for Each Project

Concrete is used in a huge array of different residential and commercial building cases from garden pathways to multi-story parking garages. A simple home driveway will function well and last a long time with a compression strength of 2500 PSI, while a nuclear power plant containment unit needs more than 6000 PSI to perform optimally.

Expert concrete contractors like TG Basile understand the specific needs and regulatory requirements of different types of building projects. Things like concrete compression strength and tensile strength of concrete affect the usability and the long-term results. Property owners or stakeholders in commercial construction projects should trust their chosen team to get the job done right.

Parking Garage

Disaster-Resilient Construction with Concrete

September 14, 2023

Natural and manmade disasters have the potential to wreak havoc on communities, causing extensive damage to structures and incurring substantial repair and rebuilding costs. However, there are effective strategies for mitigating these risks, with one of the most powerful being the use of robust, long-lasting materials like concrete in construction.

Concrete offers a multitude of advantages when it comes to crafting structures capable of withstanding the most formidable disasters, such as floods, hurricanes, earthquakes, and other destructive forces. While other materials, like wood, can easily succumb to these calamities, modern commercial concrete experts possess the knowledge and skills to create concrete slab foundations, roof slabs, structural walls, and more that can endure even the harshest conditions.

Concrete Masonry: A Superior Building Material

In response to the question, “Is Concrete Masonry a Good Building Material?” the resounding answer is “yes.” Concrete is among the most durable and esteemed building materials for both residential and commercial applications worldwide. Structural concrete elements form the backbone of countless buildings, from foundations and walls to supporting pillars and roofs. Notably, it is highly recommended for areas prone to frequent disasters, such as severe storms.

Concrete masonry units (CMUs), often in the form of blocks resembling common cinderblocks, are made of concrete mixed with gravel or aggregate. They offer a blend of functionality and aesthetics, featuring smooth, rough, or grooved surfaces. While some argue in favor of solid slabs of reinforced poured concrete as inherently stronger, masonry remains a viable choice for foundations, walls, and more.

In regions susceptible to tornadoes or hurricanes, meteorologists frequently advise seeking shelter within reinforced concrete structures, emphasizing their safety in comparison to other options.

What Kinds of Disasters Must Buildings Withstand?

Concrete solutions must withstand a range of weather conditions, geological factors such as erosion, and long-term wear and tear. In areas prone to natural disasters, the material must be prepared to endure even more severe conditions:

Extreme Wind Events: Tornadoes and hurricanes, known for their extreme wind gusts and high sustained wind speeds, pose significant threats. However, even regular summer storms and severe blizzards can cause damage through airflow and windborne debris.

Rain, Snow, and Ice: Water damage gradually affects all structures. Any cracks or faults in the material can permit moisture to infiltrate, leading to more extensive issues like mold growth and rot. Concrete masonry excels in withstanding heavy snowfall, ice buildup, and torrential rain.#2

Flooding: Standing water, a common aftermath of extreme thunderstorms and wind events near shorelines, presents a substantial challenge. Concrete masonry units offer exceptional water resistance and can withstand relatively severe flooding, though their performance depends on the specific type of flood.

While these disasters result in staggering annual damages, even more common occurrences, such as thunderstorms with high winds or recurring snowfall and sleet, contribute to structural problems, generating significant expenses for property owners.

Resiliency Is the Key to Concrete Structure Longevity

Concrete comes in various strength grades, determined by compression, flexion, and tensile strength tests. When the appropriate category of concrete masonry units is selected for a particular project, they exhibit remarkable resilience. In fact, poured, pre-cast, formed, and CMUs surpass insulated panels and wood in all disaster categories: storms, wind, floods, fires, and resistance to mold and pests.

Masonry concrete structures provide numerous benefits in disaster-resilient construction. The insights presented above underscore the suitability of various concrete structural elements for residential, commercial, and industrial applications. With centuries of advancements in resilient concrete technology, this versatile material stands as an intelligent choice for locations vulnerable to severe storms, earthquakes, and unpredictable forces.

For further insights into concrete structures and their pivotal role in disaster resilience, we encourage you to reach out to concrete experts like TG Basile. Our team is dedicated to guiding you towards structures that can endure the test of time and weather.

Parking Garage

Improving Water Drainage for Commercial Concrete Projects

August 7, 2023

Water drainage is a critical aspect of planning and constructing any industrial or commercial concrete project. Be it poured foundations, roof decks, parking lots, sidewalks, or walls, water can be a concrete structure’s greatest enemy over time. To ensure longevity, durability, and safety, experienced companies like TG Basile understand the importance of addressing drainage effectively.

The Consequences of Poor Drainage

Inadequate drainage can lead to severe problems for concrete structures. The porous nature of unsealed concrete allows water to infiltrate, causing erosion, cracks, and detachment of outer layers.

These issues not only compromise aesthetics but also pose significant structural risks, weakening foundations, frames, pillars, and roofs. Over time, this deterioration can endanger workers, residents, or visitors to the area.

Tips for Commercial Parking Lot Drainage

Commercial parking lots require careful consideration to manage water drainage effectively. Puddling and water flow issues can hinder access and usability. Creating a slight slope while maintaining a level surface is essential to ensure proper runoff.

Expert land surveyors play a crucial role in determining the appropriate slope, avoiding extremes that may hinder movement or create hazards. Additionally, incorporating drains or runoff channels away from regular foot traffic areas is advisable.

Special Considerations for Concrete Roof Slabs

Concrete roof slabs, often designed with a generally flat structure, demand even greater attention to drainage. It’s essential to avoid a 100% flat roof, which can lead to water pooling and potential roof collapse. Recommended minimum slopes of around 1/64 of an inch per foot help direct water towards gutters, scuppers, or sunk-in drains, which safely channel water away from the structure without disrupting the surroundings.

Emphasizing the Importance of Proper Drainage

Regardless of the concrete construction involved, proper water drainage is an indispensable part of the planning and building process. Neglecting this aspect can result in challenging and costly fixes once issues like water pooling or seepage arise. Water’s persistent erosion, from rain, snow melting, or humidity changes, poses a more significant threat to buildings than almost any other force on Earth. By prioritizing water drainage, commercial concrete projects can significantly reduce maintenance and repair needs and keep lifetime costs to a minimum.

Trust TG Basile for Expert Water Drainage Solutions

If you seek professional and effective water drainage solutions for your concrete project, look no further than TG Basile. Our team of experts is committed to constructing long-lasting, durable structures, ensuring minimal risks and expenses related to repairs or replacements. Contact us today to ensure your concrete project’s success with proper water drainage.

What Are Poured Concrete Foundation Walls?

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Read More

How Do Building Codes and Standards Affect Parking Garage Construction?

How to Ensure Compliance Throughout the Construction Process

How to Avoid the Consequences of Non-Compliance

Ensure Compliance With TG Basile for Your Parking Garage Construction

Read More

FINANCIAL BENEFITS OF PROACTIVE PARKING GARAGE MAINTENANCE.

SAFETY BENEFITS OF PROACTIVE PARKING GARAGE MAINTENANCE.

RECENT PARKING GARAGE CATASTROPHES

COMMON ISSUES FACED IN PARKING GARAGE REHABILITATION PROJECTS.

STRATEGIES FOR COST-EFFECTIVE RESTORATION PLANNING AND EXECUTION:

SAFETY, FINANCIAL SECURITY AND AESTHETICS.

Read More

The Strength of Concrete in Fire Scenarios

Material Composition: Key to Fire Resistance

Enhancing Fire Resistance

Fireproofing Measures: A Complementary Approach

Compliance with Safety Standards

Building Safety Through Concrete Excellence

Read More

What Are the Major Benefits of Poured Concrete Walls?

Is a Poured Wall Foundation Better Than Slabs or Blocks?

Read More

The Major Benefits of Sealing Concrete in Commercial Construction

Maintain Structural Integrity

Protection from Water Damage

Protection from UV Rays

Protection from Chemicals

Long-lasting Aesthetic Benefits

Save Money in the Long Run

What Happens If You Do Not Seal Concrete?

Read More

Different Grades of Concrete Explained

What Strength Measurements Affect Concrete Quality?

Testing Concrete Strength Against Multiple Stresses

Determining the Best Concrete Option for Each Project

Read More

Concrete Masonry: A Superior Building Material

What Kinds of Disasters Must Buildings Withstand?

Resiliency Is the Key to Concrete Structure Longevity

Read More

The Consequences of Poor Drainage​

Tips for Commercial Parking Lot Drainage

Special Considerations for Concrete Roof Slabs

Emphasizing the Importance of Proper Drainage

Trust TG Basile for Expert Water Drainage Solutions

RECENT PARKING GARAGE
CATASTROPHES

The Consequences of Poor Drainage