Tag Archive: salt lake city

Survey Marking on Concrete – Salt Lake City – Utah

A survey marking on a concrete sidewalk in Salt Lake City, urging workers to proceed with caution, likely due to electrical utilities in the area. Salt Lake resides in the urban corridor known as the Wasatch Front that runs between Ogden and Payson.

Survey markings on pavement are temporary or semi-permanent symbols, lines, or indicators used by surveyors and utility workers to convey information about underground utilities, construction projects, or property boundaries. These markings are typically made using brightly colored spray paint, chalk, or flags to ensure visibility. Each color corresponds to a specific type of utility or purpose, following standardized color codes set by organizations like the American Public Works Association (APWA). For example, red indicates electrical lines, blue represents potable water, yellow marks gas or oil lines, and green highlights sewer or drainage lines. These markings are crucial for safety and precision in excavation and construction projects.

The markings help contractors, engineers, and workers avoid damaging underground infrastructure during construction or repair work. They may also indicate elevation points, property boundaries, or planned routes for utilities or structures. Surveyors use symbols like arrows, numbers, or letters to provide additional details about measurements, angles, or directions. It’s important to note that these markings are temporary and will fade over time or be removed after the project is completed. Observing these markings helps ensure projects proceed safely and efficiently, minimizing the risk of accidents or costly damage to critical utilities.

Cracked Retaining Wall – Hillside Home – Salt Lake City, Utah

Cracked Retaining Wall - Hillside Home - Salt Lake City, Utah

A cracked retaining wall in a hillside neighborhood of Salt Lake City, Utah, along the benches of the Wasatch Mountains.

A cracked retaining wall on a residential hillside property can pose significant structural and safety concerns. Retaining walls are designed to hold back soil and prevent erosion, landslides, or property damage. Cracks in the wall may indicate underlying issues such as soil pressure exceeding the wall’s capacity, poor drainage causing hydrostatic pressure, or inadequate construction methods. If left unaddressed, the wall may fail, leading to soil movement, potential damage to the home or landscape, and increased risk of injury. leading to soil movement, potential damage to the home or landscape, and increased risk of injury. It can also lead to a much costlier repair in the future.

To remediate a cracked retaining wall, homeowners should first consult with a structural engineer or a professional contractor to assess the damage and identify the root cause. Common solutions include improving drainage systems, such as adding weep holes or French drains to reduce hydrostatic pressure. In some cases, wall reinforcement may be necessary using steel reinforcements, tiebacks, or geogrid materials. If the damage is extensive, partial or full reconstruction of the wall using higher-quality materials and proper engineering techniques may be required. Preventative maintenance, like regular inspections and ensuring proper drainage, can help avoid future issues and protect the integrity of the hillside home.

Plastic Sheeting at Construction Site in Winter, Utah

Plastic Sheeting at Construction Site in Winter, Utah

Plastic Sheeting in Winter Enclosing a Construction Site in Herriman, Utah, a city along the Wasatch Front in the Salt Lake Valley.

Plastic sheeting is an essential tool for winter construction projects, providing critical protection against cold weather, snow, and ice. It serves a variety of purposes on a construction site, including covering and insulating work areas, protecting materials from exposure to the elements, and creating temporary enclosures. In cold climates, plastic sheeting helps maintain a controlled environment, allowing contractors to continue working efficiently despite adverse weather conditions. By enclosing a site or specific areas like scaffolding or concrete pours, the sheeting can help retain heat from temporary heating systems, enabling tasks such as painting, drywalling, and curing concrete to proceed without weather-related delays.

One of the most common uses of plastic sheeting during winter is in concrete work, where low temperatures can severely affect the curing process. The sheeting helps trap warmth and prevent moisture loss, which is crucial for proper hydration and strength development in the concrete. Additionally, heavy-duty plastic sheeting can be used as a vapor barrier to block moisture infiltration into building materials, preserving their integrity. Construction-grade plastic sheeting comes in various thicknesses and sizes, with thicker options (such as 6-10 mil) offering better durability and insulation. Its versatility and affordability make it an indispensable material for protecting both workers and materials, ensuring construction projects stay on schedule during harsh winter conditions.