YourDollar


This photo was taken at a garage slab construction joint. It shows 1¾-inch clear tomild slab reinforcing steel fromthe top of slab.


Structural System (Precast, Structural Steel or Cast-


in-Place Concrete): The structural framing system and its durability provisionswill affect the initial and long-termmain- tenance costs.Owners need to be careful that a lower first cost is not offset by future maintenance dollars.An experienced parking design professional can help owners make the choice that best fits their needs and budget.


Durability Decisions Most durability discussions revolve around concrete


admixtures – silica fume, corrosion inhibitor, slag, fly ash, etc. – aswell as coatings on reinforcing steel and steel connections and embedments. Added costs are associated with many of


Owners and operators must balance the up-front costs of certain decisions with the long-term cost savings.


these items.A parking design professional will work with an owner to reviewthe various options, associated costs and long- termbenefits. But several other factors can impact the overall durability


of the parking garage that have little or no cost.These include: Good Drainage: Ponding water on a garage floor will


accelerate the corrosion of the reinforcing steel. Providing between 1.5% and 2% slope on all parking decks is recom- mended to provide good drainage. Sloping parking decks can be provided at minimal added expense, and will save thou- sands of dollars in costly future repairs. Good Concrete Cover: Providing an additional ½-inch


of concrete cover over the top slab reinforcing steel (resteel) can add years to the lifespan of a garage. Additional cover should especially be considered in corrosive northern or coastal climates.A concrete clear cover of 1½to 2 inches over the top slab resteel is recommended depending on region and


Continued on Page 28 MARCH 2009 • PARKING TODAY • www.parkingtoday.com 27


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