Installing Bollards with Concrete Forms and Anchor Castings

An efficient method for installing bollards on surfaces not entirely composed of concrete

With the use of tubed concrete forms, a bollard can be installed on a surface that is not entirely composed of concrete. The process is similar to the standard anchor cast installation. The only difference is that in this installation method, the anchor casting is placed in a concrete form. With this installation method, the function of the bollard is primarily aesthetic. This installation method is intended for bollards that enhance environments, decorate landscapes and highlight architecture. It is important to note that, with this installation method, the bollard offers little impact resistance.

Surface Preparation and Determining Layout

* NOTE: Bollards should be left in their packaging until the exact moment of installation

• Study the site plans:
  

  Site plans are generally created by the architect of the project. The architect will mark the intended location of each bollard on the plan. Ensure that the plan coincides with the site and familiarize yourself with the intended arrangement of the bollards.

• Designate where each concrete form and bollard will stand:

  If the bollards are intended to be installed to create a uniform-looking straight line, many contractors find it beneficial to snap a chalk line. This will help determine the center-point of each concrete form that will hold an anchor casting and bollard. The center-point of each concrete form should be marked with chalk, spray-paint or a felt pen.

• Cut the tubed concrete form:

  Tubing with a minimum diameter of 8” should be used for this application. Establish what the frost line is your area. The frost line is the depth to which frost penetrates the earth. In order for a bollard to maintain its structural integrity the form must be placed lower than the frost line. Cut the tube to the length of the frost line.

• Place the cut, concrete form in the bollards designated position:

  Ensure that the center of tubed form lines up with the center point markings. Remember, that the form should sit low (or high) enough that its top will be flush with the finished surface. Place a mark inside the tube, 4” down.

Pouring the Concrete

• Mix and pour the concrete:

  Ensure that the proper ratio of water and concrete mix is used. The concrete should have a similar texture to mouldable clay. Pour the concrete evenly and avoid disrupting the concrete forms. Pour the concrete until it reaches the mark, 4” from the top of the tubing.

• Place the anchor casting in the form

  Ensure that the top of the anchor casting is flush with the top of the concrete form and the intended surface. The concrete anchor threaded hole should be protected during the concrete pour with the plastic thread plug. Continue to pour the concrete.

• Allow the concrete to cure:

  A lot of elements factor into a concrete surface’s cure time. Moisture in the environment and cool temperatures can both significantly slow the process. It is generally recommended that a minimum of 2 -3 days wait should be given before beginning construction projects on new concrete surfaces.

• Apply the landscaping material:

  Once the concrete has fully cured, dirt, sand and brick can be installed around the concrete form.

• Place the bollard near the anchor casting:

  After the landscaping material has been applied, place the bollard beside the anchor casting and remove its protective packaging.

• Set the bollard over the anchor casting:

  Situate the bollard so that its center lines up with the center of the threaded hole in the anchor casting. Insert the threaded rod in the anchor casting.

• Tighten the threaded rod and secure the bollard:

  With your hand, tighten the threaded rod until it reaches a depth of approximately 1½" in the anchor casting. Ensure that the top of the threaded rod does not extend higher than 32” from the landscaped surface. Place the washer over the threaded rod so that it rests on top of the shaft of the bollard. Apply the 1” nut to the threaded rod and tighten it until the bollard is secure.

• Secure the bollard’s cap:

  Remove bollard cap from its packaging. Place the cap on the top of the shaft of the bollard. Then, secure the cap to the shaft by tightening the three set screws with equal amounts of torque to ensure that the cap remains centered. The set screws are composed of stainless steel and the insert holes on the bollard cap are lined with stainless steel to prevent rust. Place the provided plastic caps over the heads of the set screws.

• Inspect the installation:

  At a distance, examine the plain of view. All bollards should appear to be perpendicular with the surface of the concrete. On level surfaces, hold a level vertically against the side of the bollard to ensure that it is plumb to the surface.

• Check the bollard for any signs of surface damage:

  If the bollard was scratched or scraped during installation, it can be repaired with touch up paint, commonly found at automotive stores. Abrasions must be covered to avoid rust and ensure the proper life of the bollard.

Care and Maintenance

Reliance Foundry manufactures its products to the highest design standards to ensure their durability. Reliance’s line of bollards are finished with a long-lasting powder-coating. This powder-coated finish will protect the bollard in typical North American climates, however, proper care and maintenance is required. In most environments, regularly-performed inspections and routine cleaning will ensure that a bollard retains its aesthetic appeal and does not become damaged by the elements.