Concrete loading docks are critical in a variety of logistic industries across North Carolina and Southern Virginia. Concrete provides a stable and strong platform for machines loading and unloading trucks and withstands extremely heavy loads. However, before you pour the concrete, there are some important factors to consider for new concrete loading dock installations.
Top Installation Factors For Concrete Loading Docks
The most critical factor for constructing a new loading dock is a solid foundation. Without a proper soil inspection and ground improvement of loose granular soils, your investment could literally sink. It is vital to reinforce the soil with deep foundations and other soil remediation techniques such as compaction grouting.
Once your site has been prepared and meets load-bearing capacity, then you can start building and pouring your footers. While a solid foundation is vital, there are three other key elements to constructing a long-lasting concrete loading dock.
Here are the top three installation factors when building new concrete loading docks throughout the Triangle Area:
1. Slab Thickness
The thickness of your concrete slab is generally calculated by the load-bearing requirements. For example, a 4-inch slab will not support a 2-ton forklift before it eventually fails. Most concrete driveway installations in Raleigh are constructed with 6-inch slabs. For maximum load-bearing capacity, concrete loading docks should be a minimum of 10-12 inches thick. Additionally, consult with your concrete contractor about reinforcing support if you plan on using dock levers for loading/unloading parked trucks.
2. Location of Loading Docks
It is vital to make sure that the location you choose is secure, efficient, and free from any obstructions. Since this area is the central hub of your operations, it’s also important to make sure your employees can move about freely. Another factor is how the trucks will maneuver off the main road into your parking lot. All of these factors play a role in the location of concrete loading docks.
3. Loading Dock Levers
Your shipping and receiving area is where all of the action is going to happen. Therefore, when the trucks pull in, you’ll need loading dock levers to unload them. Loading dock levers are metal ramps that run on hydraulics and raise and lower the platform onto the back of the trailer’s floorboards. Before installations of these devices can occur, it’s imperative to consult with your concrete contractor. Your contractor will need the exact dimensions and specifications of the levers to construct your concrete loading dock.
The Importance of Quality Craftsmanship of Concrete Loading Docks
When constructing concrete infrastructure such as loading docks, requires an experienced and skilled concrete company. There are several factors that must be adhered to and implemented into the design of your project. We Do Concrete Cheap also does high-quality installations on commercial and industrial concrete loading docks.
From the initial design concept to ground improvement applications and reinforced footers. Our concrete company builds concrete infrastructure built to last. For more information about our concrete loading docks installations and repairs, please call 919-414-3927 or simply fill out our online contact form and tell us more about your project.
