🏗️ Steps Followed in the Concrete Pouring Process in Saudi Arabia: Quality Execution According to Engineering Standards
Concrete pouring is one of the most critical stages in construction across Saudi Arabia, as the structural integrity and safety of buildings rely heavily on its proper execution. This process is governed by strict requirements in accordance with the Saudi Building Code and international standards to ensure optimal structural performance.
🧱 First: Preparation Before Pouring
- Inspecting Formwork and Reinforcement: Ensuring the molds are secure and the reinforcement layout matches the drawings.
- Cleaning the Molds: Removing debris or any foreign material that may affect the concrete’s quality.
- Moistening the Molds: Spraying molds with water prior to pouring to reduce moisture absorption from the concrete.
🧪 Second: Concrete Mix Design
- Determining the ratios of cement, sand, gravel, and water according to building type and site conditions.
- Adding admixtures to improve workability or resistance to heat when needed.
- Performing a Slump Test to check workability.
🚚 Third: Transporting the Concrete
- Using ready-mix trucks or mixing on-site.
- Transporting with wheelbarrows or pumps, depending on the project type.
- The time between mixing and pouring must not exceed 30 minutes under normal conditions, and 20 minutes in hot weather.
🏗️ Fourth: The Pouring Process
- Layered pouring: Pour concrete in layers not exceeding 30 cm to avoid segregation and honeycombing.
- Using vibrators: To compact the concrete and eliminate air voids.
- Avoiding separation: Pour gently without dropping from excessive height.
🧯 Fifth: Curing
- Begins 2–3 hours after pouring and lasts for at least 7 days.
- Methods include:
- Covering with wet burlap.
- Continuous water spraying.
- Using chemical curing compounds.
🛠️ Sixth: Inspection and Repair
- After removing the formwork, visually inspect the concrete.
- Treat any honeycombing or voids using special grout or repair mortar.
- In critical cases, the damaged area may be re-poured.
📋 Special Requirements in Saudi Arabia
- Comply with permissible temperature ranges during pouring:
- Concrete should not be poured if the temperature is below 4.5°C or above 38°C without special precautions.
- Ready-mix concrete is preferred in major projects to minimize errors.
- All stages of pouring must be documented in a technical log with photos and reports.
