What is Shotcrete?

Shotcrete, also known as gunite, is a process where low moisture concrete is sprayed through a nozzled hose or gun at very high velocity onto a surface to form specific structural building shapes such as walls, floors, and roofs. The target base can be made of wood, steel, polystyrene, or any other type of material where concrete may adhere. The new wet surface is then troweled smooth, or if desired, textures and tints can be added to create a variety of design effects.

Properties

Shotcrete or gunite projects require the same types of reinforcement specified for conventional concrete including deformed bars, welded wire fabric, and pre-stressing steel. The finished product—shotcrete—now consists of a compressive strength similar to normal and high strength concrete and has very good durability, low permeability, excellent bond and limitless shape possibilities. These are the properties that allow shotcrete to be effectively used as strong structural building material.

Steep Slope Stabilization

Although the hardened properties of shotcrete are similar to conventional cast-in-place concrete, the nature of the placement process provides additional benefits, particularly on fast setting forms and complex shapes. Along with home construction, shotcrete is now being used to build houses, swimming pools, enhance complicated landscaping water features, and for steep slope stabilization applications.

Because of varying climatic conditions, steep slope grades need to be secured and stabilized. Rocks, trees, and other debris can unearth and dislodge without warning and become extremely dangerous to humans and traffic. Fiber-reinforced shotcrete (FRS) is now being used for such slope stabilization work. The results have proven to be excellent for strength and endurance, while the aesthetics of the mountainous surroundings remain intact, protecting the public from sometimes deadly accidents of nature.

Klempco Construction Company is a design build geotechnical contractor that will deliver extremely technical projects performed to the highest of standards creatively, safely, and in a timely manner. We are OSHA and MSHA Certified. We are trained, equipped, and available for residential, commercial and governmental work.