New Premier Inn
Brewery Square, Dorchester
2720m2 / 476m3 (3 applications over 1 visits). Concrete pump powerfloat finish
Co-ordinate all stages of an industrial flooring project to specification and deadline
Nationwide concreting were asked to undertake a concrete floor installation for a new Premier Inn at Brewery Square, Dorchester, supplying all labour (16 operatives) and plant to create concrete floor slabs measuring approximately 4880m2.
One of the unique aspects of this project was the decision to forego traditional mesh reinforcement in favor of using steel fibres. This advanced approach provided significant advantages in terms of both strength and durability while also simplifying the installation process by reducing the need for extensive mesh laying.
The steel fibres used in this project were 40/50 steel fibres, added at a ratio of 30kg per m³ of concrete. These fibres were mixed directly into the concrete using our blast pin machine at the batching plant. This method allows for precise integration of fibres into the concrete mix, ensuring optimal distribution and enhanced tensile strength, which is particularly beneficial in high-traffic commercial environments like hotels.
Our team utilised a super plasticiser additive to further improve the workability and flow of the concrete mix. The addition of super plasticiser allowed us to achieve the necessary slump without compromising the strength and durability of the final slab. During the mixing process, the operator added the steel fibres and super plasticiser while the drum was in fast mixing mode. The concrete was mixed for an additional four minutes, followed by a thorough visual inspection of the slump to confirm consistency. If necessary, further adjustments were made, followed by additional mixing to ensure the concrete met the precise specifications required for the project.
At Nationwide Concreting, we emphasize rigorous quality control to guarantee that every project meets the highest standards. As part of the Brewery Square project, we conducted concrete cube testing to assess the strength of the concrete used.
Our method involved carefully taking samples from the concrete lorries during discharge. One of our trained operatives collected a specific amount of concrete from the truck into pre-prepared, ready-oiled cube moulds. Each mould was filled halfway, and the concrete was compacted using a tamping bar, applying 25 tamps to each cube. The process was then repeated to fill the mould completely. Once the cubes were fully filled, they were troweled to achieve a smooth finish, and details such as the time of sampling and casting were documented.
The concrete cubes were then covered with hessian for initial curing on site before being removed from the moulds and placed in water to continue the curing process. These cubes were later tested to ensure that the concrete met the required strength criteria, providing an additional layer of assurance that the final floor slab would deliver long-term performance and durability.
The final phase of the installation involved power floating the concrete surface to achieve a high-quality, smooth finish. Power floating is an essential step in commercial flooring projects, as it enhances both the appearance and the durability of the concrete. By closing the surface, the power float process reduces the risk of surface defects and improves the slab's resistance to wear and tear.
The result was a defect-free, power floated concrete floor, ready to support the heavy foot traffic and demands of a busy hotel environment. The seamless finish not only provides an aesthetically pleasing surface but also ensures long-lasting performance, reducing the need for future maintenance or repairs.
The successful completion of this project at Premier Inn in Brewery Square, Dorchester, reflects Nationwide Concreting's commitment to quality, precision, and efficiency. By employing modern concreting techniques, including steel fibre reinforcement and super plasticisers, we delivered a concrete floor that met the stringent requirements of both Premier Inn and the main contractor.
Our team's ability to coordinate all stages of the project ensured a smooth workflow, minimizing disruptions and completing the installation within the designated timeline. The power float finish, combined with rigorous quality control, resulted in a high-performance floor slab designed to withstand the demands of a busy commercial setting for years to come.
We are the leading concrete flooring contractors in the UK, offering outstanding concrete finishing results with every project. For more information about our services, contact our team today on 01590 676 585.