Flexible bollards can be installed on a surface that is not entirely composed of concrete. In this installation method, the bollard is placed in a concrete form, and concrete is then poured inside without disturbing the surrounding area.

The bollard can be used as a fixed device for lane demarcation, or for creating architectural perimeters that are traffic friendly. Flexible bollards will bend up to 90° upon impact to reduce damage to vehicles, making them ideal for traffic applications.

It is important to note that this installation technique offers little impact resistance.

Please refer to the product drawing for each specific model to determine some of the measurements in this installation guide.

PARTS LIST

#

PART

QTY

1

Flexible Bollard, Embedded Mount

1

2

Reflective Tape (optional)

1

INSTALLATION EQUIPMENT

Auger

Dirt Tamper

Tubed Concrete Form

Level

Paper/Newspaper

Measuring Tape

NOTE

  • To protect the finish, keep bollards in original packaging until the exact moment of installation.
  • Handle with care to avoid scratching or damaging bollard surfaces.
Diagram showing a parts list for flexible bollards using concrete forms

Before installation

Study the site plans
Site plans are generally created by the architect of the project.

Refer to site plans to locate the precise center point of each bollard.

Ensure that the plan coincides with the site and familiarize yourself with the intended arrangement of the bollards.

Check for hazards
Always check for hazards such as water pipes, gas lines, and underground wiring before digging.

Prepare the site for concrete
Please consult your local Building Code Department to determine the recommended digging depth below the frost line in your area.

Dig below the recommended digging depth—or to the required depth for the bollard—whichever is greater.

Note: The required depth for the bollard differs based on the bollard model. Refer to product drawings to determine specific depth measurements.

Cut the tubed concrete form
Tubing must have a diameter that is at least 4″ greater than that of the bollard base.

Cut the tubed concrete form to the correct length so that when placed in the prepared site, its top will be flush with the finished grade.

Note: Remember, it is crucial to leave an allowance (TBD) at the top of the current surface as the landscaping material must still be added later. Consult with your landscaper to determine how much allowance is required.

Diagram showing the tubed concrete form with a diameter greater than the bollard base by 4 inches and the height is flush with the finished grade

Dig the site
Ensure that the diameter of the hole is large enough to hold the tubing.

Center an auger on the installation mark and bore a hole to required measurements.

Diagram showing an auger digging a hole to required depth and diameter (diameter is greater than bollard base by 4 inches)

Ensure the area is properly formed to create a perimeter that will hold wet concrete.

Use a dirt tamper to compact the soil below the intended surface.

Diagram showing a dirt tamper compacting the soil below

Place the concrete form in the designated position
Ensure that the center of the tubed form lines up with the center point markings.

Remember, the top of the concrete form must be flush with the final grade.

Use dirt or gravel to fill in any voids between the concrete form and the hole.

Diagram showing the concrete form in the site with dirt or gravel filling any voids between the concrete form and the hole

Pour the concrete

Mix the concrete
Ensure that the proper ratio of water and concrete mix is used.

The concrete should have a similar texture to moldable clay.

Place the bollard near the form
Keep the bollard in its protective packaging.

When ready to install, remove bollard from packaging and scrunch up paper or newspaper and put inside the hollow bottom of the bollard to prevent debris from entering.

Lower the bollard into the concrete form.

Pour the concrete
Take care to pour the concrete evenly inside the concrete form and avoid disrupting it.

Hold a level against the side of the bollard and ensure that it remains plumb.

Note: Once the concrete has cured, there will be no way to make any adjustments.

Diagram showing the concrete form with the bollard inside with concrete and a level to ensure that it is plumb

Allow the concrete to cure
A minimum of 2–3 days should be given for concrete to cure before beginning construction projects on new concrete surfaces.

Note: Moisture in the environment and cool temperatures can significantly slow the process.

Apply the landscaping material
Once the concrete has fully cured, landscaping materials such as dirt, sand, and brick can be applied around the concrete form.

Inspect

Inspect the installation
From a distance, examine the plane of view.

Ensure the bollard is plumb.

Check the bollard for any signs of surface damage
For damage repair or other servicing needs, please contact Reliance Foundry’s sales department.

Care and maintenance

Reliance Foundry manufactures its products to the highest design standards to ensure their durability. Reliance Foundry’s bollards are finished with long-lasting powder coating. In most North American environments, routine inspections and cleaning will ensure that bollards retain their aesthetic appeal. Proper care and maintenance are required to maintain the finish and ensure a full service life.

Diagram showing a flexible bollard installed with concrete forms