If you're working on a construction project, you'll need concrete barriers to keep people safe. These barriers come in different types, each with its own advantages and disadvantages.
This post discusses the three most common types of concrete barriers and explains why you might need them for your project.
Jersey Barriers
Jersey barriers are the most common type of concrete barrier. They're also called K-rail barriers or concrete traffic barriers. Jersey barriers are usually made of concrete and steel. They're then filled with water or sand to make them even heavier.
Jersey barriers are most often used to separate traffic on highways, but they can also protect construction buildings from vehicular damage. They can also be used to direct pedestrian traffic. You should consider these barriers because they are:
- Very effective at stopping vehicles
- Relatively inexpensive
However, jersey barriers can be difficult to move once they're in place. They're also not very aesthetically pleasing, so they may not be the best choice for projects that are visible to the public.
Precast Concrete Barriers
Precast concrete barriers are made of concrete that is cast into a mold and then cured. And while these barriers are still made of concrete, they don't have the steel reinforcement that jersey barriers have.
Precast concrete barriers are most often used to separate traffic on highways, but they can also be used to protect buildings from vehicular damage or to direct pedestrian traffic. They can be customized with a variety of finishes and colors to match the aesthetic of any project.
These barriers are also easy to install and require minimal maintenance, making them a cost-effective solution for busy roads and highways. So whether you're looking for temporary or permanent protection, precast concrete barriers are an excellent option. But remember that precast concrete barriers are not as effective at stopping vehicles as jersey barriers since their construction is not as strong.
Concrete Bridge Parapets
Bridge parapets are concrete barriers that are placed on the sides of bridges. They're made of a combination of steel and concrete. These bridge parapets protect pedestrians and vehicles from falling off the side of the bridge.
Parapet walls can be either solid or have openings. They can also be either straight or curved. The design of the parapet will depend on the specific needs of the bridge construction and functionality. For example, bridges that carry heavy traffic will need stronger parapets than those that carry light traffic.
Parapets are an essential part of any bridge construction project, and they must be able to withstand the weight of the bridge and the traffic that crosses it. That's why concrete is such a popular material for parapets — it's strong and durable.
For more information, contact a construction company such as Milwaukee Scaffolding Inc.
Why do we have structures built? In some cases, it's because we need them. We do, after all, need buildings like homes and banks. Sometimes, though, we have things constructed simply for our enjoyment. This is true of parks, and it also tends to be true of landscaping. Construction workers build things so we can enjoy them — that's a concise way of putting it!
This blog is not much different, really. We write here so that you, our readers, can enjoy the content. Yes, you might get other benefits from reading here, too, but that's just extra. All topics will be related to construction and contractors, so we hope you dig in and let the knowledge fill your mind.