Cornice boards - application and assembly rules
11 January 2022
The use of cornice boards
Prefabricated polymer concrete bridge cornices are used to protect the bridge outer surface structure providing an aesthetic function by reshaping and at the same time coloring the exterior of bridge surfaces.
Installation process
Installation begins by leveling the cornice boards and setting the gaps between them. The reinforcement protruding from the board backwards is connected to the bridge deck by welding against the reinforcement of the sidewalk structure. Then, pavement is built. The work is finished by filling up the side surface gaps with a flexible epoxy joint sealant compound.
In some cases when cornice boards are designed to be installed in existing bridges being subject to renovation then anchoring fixing elements are used.
Why is it worth using cornice boards?
Undoubtedly the first advantage is the variety of shapes and sizes that can be successfully adapted to any bridge side surface. They also come in a wide range of colors, giving each bridge a unique look.
Considering that cornice panels also provide the side slab and sidewalk formwork of the bridge structure, construction time is significantly reduced, as well as investment costs.
Thanks to the very low water absorption of polymer concrete, cornice boards provide the structure with an optimum frost resistance level. Additionally, their reduced weight compared with regular concrete solutions facilitates assembly reducing total bridge superstructure weight. Cornice boards are a permanent element of the bridge, ensuring a much longer service life.
