Installing Flexible Bollards with Embedded Mountings

Straightforward guidelines for permanently setting flexible bollards

Flexible bollards will bend up to 90° upon impact to reduce damage to vehicles. This makes them ideal for traffic applications. Reliance Foundry carries a select line of flexible bollards that can be set into a concrete surface’s substrate. By positioning the bollard in its intended location and then pouring the concrete, the bollard becomes a fixed device for lane demarcation or for creating architectural perimeters that are traffic friendly. It is important to note that, although the bollard is set in the concrete substrate, its function is strictly visual and it will offer little impact resistance. This installation method is intended for bollards that operate as traffic guides that visually restrict vehicle access.

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.

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  If the bollard is being installed in a standalone application, establish what the frost line is your area!

  The installation hole will need to be dug to that depth. The depth of your region’s frost line can be determined by contacting your local building inspection department. Bollards that are being installed in new concrete applications with large surface areas do not require the installation holes to be dug as deep. You may wish to consult an engineer if you have any questions as to the appropriate depth for your project.

• Designate where each 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 security post that will hold a bollard. The center-point of each security post should be marked with chalk, spray-paint or a felt pen.

• Create the installation hole:

  Center an auger on the installation mark and bore a hole to the depth required for your application. For applications in which the bollard will be embedded in a sidewalk or concrete roadway, the hole should be 9.8” deep. The diameter of the hole should extend a minimum of 2” from all points on the bollard, more if the bollard is being installed in a standalone application. You may wish to consult an engineer if you have questions regarding the required depth and width of your installation hole.

• Ensure that the site is ready to receive the concrete:

  The area should be properly formed with wood placed on its side to create a perimeter that will hold the wet concrete. The soil below the intended surface should be compacted with a dirt tamper. The bollards are placed so that 7.9” of the base will sit below the concrete’s surface.

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 bollard.

• Pour the concrete:

  Begin to fill hole with concrete, when the concrete reaches a level that is 7.9” below the surface place the bollard in the installation hole and continue to fill until the concrete reaches the surface. Pour the concrete evenly and avoid disrupting the receiver. Hold a level against the side of the bollard and ensure that bollard remains perpendicular to the surface of 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.

• Inspect the installation:

  After the concrete has cured, examine the plain of view at a distance. All bollards should appear to be perpendicular with the surface of the concrete. Each bollard should be plumb with the surface of the concrete.

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.