How are concrete bollards secured to the floor?

There are two main methods of anchoring concrete bollards to the ground, depending on whether they are precast or cast-in-place. The goal of both methods is to anchor them firmly and deeply into the ground to resist impact or movement.

 

1. cast-in-place concrete bollards (the safest method)

These bollards are formed and poured on site, often with reinforcing steel.

How are they secured?

Dig a foundation hole (usually 18-36 inches deep and 12-24 inches wide).

Place reinforcing steel into the hole and up through the center of the bollard form.

Insert a form tube or mold to shape the bollard.

Pour concrete into both the forms and the foundation.

Allow the concrete to cure (usually takes 24-72 hours).

Optionally, a bollard cover may be used for aesthetic reasons or to improve visibility.

This method integrates the bollard with its foundation, making it strong enough to stop vehicles, especially after reinforcement.

 

2. Precast Concrete Bollards (Factory Fabricated)

These are solid concrete bollards fabricated in molds and transported to the site.

How are they secured?

Embedded anchor: a steel rod or threaded anchor protrudes from the bottom of the bollard. It is inserted into a drilled hole in the concrete surface and secured with epoxy bonding or grouting.

SURFACE MOUNTING (WITH ADHESIVE): A heavy-duty construction epoxy or cement adhesive is applied to the base and pressed against the concrete slab. Primarily used for non-security decorative purposes.

Bolted to Base Plate (less common): some lighter bollards bolt the steel base plate to the floor, but this is usually used for decorative or light duty purposes.

Recessed and grouted anchors are preferred over surface adhesives alone for safety or impact protection.

 

Safety Installation Tips:

In cold climates, be sure to excavate below the frost line to avoid foundation bulging.

Use reinforced concrete (with reinforcing mesh) for strength.

Make sure protection columns are level and properly aligned during maintenance.

For precast elements, follow manufacturer's specifications for anchor bolt size and depth.