Are you seeking wall-bracing services for an upcoming construction project in Maryland, DC, and VA? Learn more about the difference between temporary and permanent bracing and other wall-bracing basics here.
Temporary vs. Permanent Wall Bracing
Temporary wall braces are an essential safety system installation necessary in construction projects. They utilize metal poles, wooden frames, cables, or pre-engineered bracing components to stabilize tilt-up concrete panels before the building is complete. Temporary bracing may also be used to combat racking loads when walls are being renovated or repaired. Without bracing, construction sites would be incredibly hazardous, risking the collapse of unfinished walls every time the wind picked up.
Once the building’s structural components are all erected, temporary braces are removed, and permanent bracing is installed. This may take the form of rigid foam, structural sheathing, or gypsum sheathing. Permanent bracing is a structural component designed to evenly distribute loads and ensure the building’s stability. After all, while traditional framing can bear the weight of the roof and upper floors, it does little to resist lateral stresses caused by high winds and earthquakes.
Permanent wall bracing prevents these forces from racking the walls, which could result in cosmetic damage, performance problems, and even structural failure. Besides these bracing techniques, connections to the roof and floor diaphragms protect finished walls against lateral loads.
Wall Bracing and Tilt-Up Construction
Tilt-up walls have become a popular construction technique for residential dwellings, retail stores, office buildings, warehouses, and other structures. The concept is simple—concrete walls are poured into custom wood forms lying on the ground. These have built-in footing and roofing supports for fast assembly once the slabs dry.
With the concrete walls cured and ready to go, the wall panels are lifted into place and secured temporarily with wall bracing. Tilt-up construction is quicker, easier, and more affordable than traditional bricklaying or wooden frame construction. The key to its success is a reliable wall-bracing system. The Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) requires tilt-up panels to have adequate temporary bracing to ensure worker safety. Here are some things to keep in mind on your construction site:
OSHA requires bracing for all walls taller than 8 feet. At least two braces must be used per panel.
· Braces can be attached to tilt-up wall panels before or after they have been lifted into place, though it’s often more efficient to attach the braces before erecting the panels. This way, you avoid needing ladders or aerial lifts to attach the braces while a crane holds the wall steady.
· Braces can be installed on the interior or exterior side of the wall panel. Still, it’s usually more efficient to brace the outside to prevent construction delays inside the building.
Scaffold Resource has a core of engineers who are extremely knowledgeable in all temporary wall bracing techniques and methods. Our certified staff is ready to provide the information and resources you need to safely implement this construction method and comply with OSHA regulations. Contact us at 301-924-7223 or email us at sales@scaffoldresource.com Also, follow us on Facebook, LinkedIn, and Twitter, and Pinterest for news and updates on our events and trends in the scaffolding and construction industry.
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Scaffold Resource – https://www.scaffoldresource.com/
“DC, Maryland, Virginia, and beyond”
301-924-7223
1996
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https://www.steelconstruction.info/Bracing_systems (This is about bridge bra