Installing Martello Bollards with Embedded Mountings
Reliance Foundry’s Martello bollards are protective traffic guidance devices that reduce the chances of vehicles entering pedestrian areas. They are typically installed on sidewalks to discourage vehicles from mounting curbs. The sloped side should face the road to minimize vehicle damage and, where appropriate, redirect the vehicle back to the road. Martello bollards are embedded in the concrete surface of sidewalks and intended for applications where high impact resistance is required.
It is important to note that Reliance Foundry’s installation recommendations serve only as general guidelines. To ensure that Martello bollards deliver adequate impact resistance, a professional engineer should be consulted.
PARTS LIST
# |
PART |
QTY |
---|---|---|
1 |
Bollard Body |
1 |
2 |
Bollard Cover with Reflective Strip |
1 |
3 |
Concrete Anchor |
2 |
INSTALLATION EQUIPMENT
Measuring Tape |
Chalk/Marker |
Level |
Shovel |
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 as abrasions will lead to rust.
- Once scratched, bollards cannot be repaired to original form without re-finishing the entire surface.

Before installation
Check for hazards
Always check for hazards such as water pipes, gas lines, and underground wiring before digging.
Study the site plans
Site plans are generally created by the architect of the project.
Refer to site plans to locate and mark the precise center point of each bollard.
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. Choose this or 12″, whichever is greater.
The diameter of the hole should extend a minimum of 8″ from all sides of the bollard.
Dig the hole
Dig a hole to the required measurements.
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.

Set the bollard
Lower the bollard
Keep the bollard in its protective packaging. Position the bollard so that the entire footing will rest in the concrete substrate.
Ensure that the bend (A) along the entire circumference of the bollard is flush with the intended finished grade.
Orient the bollard so that the sloped side faces the road.
Note: Installers may find it beneficial to use wood or brick to position the bollard so that the bend (A) is flush with the intended concrete surface.

Mix and pour the concrete
Ensure that the proper ratio of water and concrete mix is used. The concrete should have a similar texture to moldable clay.
Fill the site around the bollard with concrete until it is level with the finished grade.
Begin filling the body of the bollard through the holes at the top. Stir and compact the concrete to get rid of air bubbles. Continue to pour concrete, leaving 1/2″ of the top clear.
Remove the bollard’s protective packaging.

Prepare the cap
Attach the concrete anchors
Screw the concrete anchors (B) into the cap.

Secure the cap
Securing the cap for the R-7662-EM differs slightly from the R-7651-EM:
R-7662-EM Martello bollard
Fit the cap onto the bollard.
Press the concrete anchors into the wet concrete until the cap sits flat on the base.
R-7651-EM Martello bollard
Fit the cap onto the bollard, ensuring that the longer axis of the cap aligns with the long axis of the bollard base.

Once aligned, press the cap and concrete anchors into the wet concrete until the cap sits flat on the base.
Note: Be sure to make any necessary adjustments to the orientation now. Once the concrete cures, there is no way to rotate the cover.

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
Abrasions should be covered as soon as possible to prevent rust and ensure the proper life of the bollard. 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.
