Introduction

The appearance of concrete is usally the first of it qualities to be assessed, making an immediate visual impact on an increasingly aware and discering population

The quality of finish can also be associated with workmanship and the structural integrity and durability of the structure. Generally, if the concrete looks good, it is capable of performing to the required standards. Whereas some of its properties can be accurately measured, however, appearance is subjective, relying on the eye of the beholder.

This is the reason why the Concrete Bridge Development Group (CBDG) responded to The Highways Agency approach to manufacture and install concrete panels showing typical site finishes, as described in Clause 1708 of the Specification for Highway Works (SHW), for each geographical region. Such panels will provide a physical reference point which industry can use as a benchmark.

Objectives of Project

To provide a focus for all members of the Project team to increase efficiency and economy, whilst reducing confrontation, by agreement on an acceptable standard of finish.

Steering Group

On its appointment as main contractors for this demanding project, CBDG set up a Steering Group to oversee the design, manufacture and installation of the panels. It comprised mainly of experienced practitioners in both the production and assessment of surface finishes and their comments on the finishes achieved, to be found in Guidance Notes at each location, represent a professional and unified view.

Panel Design and Manufacture

The Steering Group decided that 2m x 1m reinforced panels should be manufactured using C50 concrete. Local materials from each geographical region were sourced and mix designs produced

Two panels were manufactured for each location showing typical examples of F2 and F4 finishes.

Description of Panels

The panels offer a realistic, consistently achievable standard of surface finish and act as a benchmark for the benefit of the construction industry. They provide examples of commonly used finishes in in-situ concrete used in highway structures and incorporate a range of common blemishes and defects.

Location of Panels Eight pairs of panels are located at sites around the UK, as listed below. Click on a location for site details and to access the Guidance Notes for the panels at that location. Guidance Notes

Guidance Notes accompany each set of panels and must be read in conjuction with the physical assessment of the panels. They contains full specification details and, importantly, the professional opinion of the Steering Group on the quality of finish achieved. Reference is made to specific blemishes and irregularities on each surface and an opinion is offered on their acceptability

Advice Note and SHW

An Advice Note has been prepared for the Highways Agency and is currently being assessed by their Technical Projects Board.

Ammendments to SHW Clause 1708 have also been made and will be published in the next edition.