Civil Engineering Association

TM 34 Tilt-up Technical Manual

The tilt-up construction technique was pioneered in the USA around 1908 but it was not until the late 1950’s that it was practiced in New Zealand. The concept was mainly confined to flat panels in commercial buildings where aesthetics was not of importance, however, in more recent times, universally, the growth of tilt-up has run parallel with the developments in architectural tilt-up. The system now offers designers a diversity of aesthetically pleasing structures at economic advantage compared to other building systems.
Use of the term tilt-up is sometimes restricted to wall panels cast on a horizontal surface and requiring only to be tilted into their final location. However many of the principles applying to this equally apply to the broader concept of site precasting of columns, beams and plane frames, which after being cast horizontally are lifted by crane and moved to their final location. Thus, although this manual is written around the construction of tilt-up wall panels, it does have a wider application.
Where tilt-up and off site precasting are being considered as alternative construction methods, the restriction of precast panel size, as dictated by road transport, with the consequential extra joints and panel numbers may lead to increased erection and finishing cost compared to tilt-up. However, where high quality architectural finishes are being considered, this skilled work is easier to achieve in factory type conditions. The ultimate solution in these special requirements may be a combination of off site precast and tilt-up.
As with any precast method of building, the best results using tilt-up are achieved when there is close collaboration from the outset between all members of the design and construction team. To foster such an approach, this manual covers all aspects of tilt-up construction from planning through to finishing.
Safety aspects during lifting and temporary propping are matters of concern to authorities. Handling large panels can be done safely provided that simple rules on equipment and procedures are followed. This aspect is also covered in this manual