There are several methods of laying concrete. Choosing the technique to use for your paving depends on the cost, equipment available and personal preferences. The best builders often advise on the method you should use depending on the outcome you want from the structure. On that note, slipform paving is one technique you should consider when paving your surfaces.

In this process, the builder consolidates a mass of plain cement concrete (PCC) by pulling pre-made forms through it. It is a great way of taking on large-scale paving projects in residential and commercial settings. You can also use the method for projects that require high levels of production. Here is a discussion that will teach you more:

The Benefits of Slipform Paving

Slipform paving has several advantages over traditional concreting techniques. The top benefits here include:

• Low-slump — slipform paving uses low-slump plain cement concrete to ensure that the cement will hold its position after removing the slipform paver. This slump has low amounts of water, meaning that you get a cementitious mixture with excellent flexural strength and compression ability. Additionally, the low levels of water hasten the curing process of the pavement you lay.
• Smooth Surface — slipform paving produces a smooth surface that enhances your user experience. Motorists, cyclists and pedestrians will enjoy using paving made by slipform methods. The surface is a result of computer control and automation of the construction process.
• High productivity — slipform paving delivers high productivity because of extensive automation. It eliminates the slow-paced construction processes that depend on manual methods.

Using A Slipform Paver

Slipform paving machines are the elementary tools you need for your paving projects. Primarily, these machines perform three functions. They screed, consolidate and finish the paved surface. Specialised pavers can come with additional functionalities like the ability to lay reinforcing steel where necessary. They can also install tie rods and dowel bars to ensure that your paving has a firm structure.

Finishing

Proper finishing is essential for ensuring that your paved surface has the right texture and visual appeal. The initial stages of the finishing process involve the extrusion of the PCC through a mobile form comprising the base course and vertical edges of the paving machine. Here, the goal is to imbed the large aggregates and shape the slab dimensions perfectly for a desirable shape. It also restrains the large aggregates from slipping into sections where they can stick easily.