Protecting and storing rebar
Stainless rebars, carbon steel rebars, galvanised steel bars and epoxy-coated steel bars of various classes and grades are all types of steel reinforcement used in construction. To avoid distortion and deterioration due to corrosion, each type must be handled and stored separately.
Here are some tips for protecting and storing rebar.
- Position rebar on a raised platform which can be made of any non-metallic material. Because the ground and concrete absorb moisture, which can cause rusting, wooden pallets can be used as platforms.
- Rebar can be protected with a thick tarp and secured with cinder blocks at the corners and edges. The protective covering keeps the rebar from being exposed to the elements.
- When using galvanized rebar, avoid contact with uncoated rebar and prolonged contact with wooden materials which can stain its surface. In these instances, it is recommended to use a different type of non-metallic platform.
- Carbon steel rebar and other ferrous materials must be kept separate from stainless steel rebar. If space is an issue, place the stainless steel rebar above all other rebar.
- Corrosion in rebar can be avoided by storing them in sheds or an enclosed space. It is important that the area is not prone to humidity, moisture, snow or rain.
- The ends of the various classes of rebar should be painted differently to facilitate identification and organisation. To prevent scaling and rusting, the steel reinforcement should be painted with cement wash if possible.
- Rebar can be stored for an extended period by stacking them at least 150 mm above ground level. This must be done with enough support so that it does not buckle, sag or bend. To store rebar, special steel racks are now manufactured.
[edit] Related articles on Designing Buildings Wiki
Featured articles and news
Latest Build UK Building Safety Regime explainer published
Key elements in one short, now updated document.
UKGBC launch the UK Climate Resilience Roadmap
First guidance of its kind on direct climate impacts for the built environment and how it can adapt.
CLC Health, Safety and Wellbeing Strategy 2025
Launched by the Minister for Industry to look at fatalities on site, improving mental health and other issues.
One of the most impressive Victorian architects. Book review.
Common Assessment Standard now with building safety
New CAS update now includes mandatory building safety questions.
RTPI leader to become new CIOB Chief Executive Officer
Dr Victoria Hills MRTPI, FICE to take over after Caroline Gumble’s departure.
Social and affordable housing, a long term plan for delivery
The “Delivering a Decade of Renewal for Social and Affordable Housing” strategy sets out future path.
A change to adoptive architecture
Effects of global weather warming on architectural detailing, material choice and human interaction.
The proposed publicly owned and backed subsidiary of Homes England, to facilitate new homes.
How big is the problem and what can we do to mitigate the effects?
Overheating guidance and tools for building designers
A number of cool guides to help with the heat.
The UK's Modern Industrial Strategy: A 10 year plan
Previous consultation criticism, current key elements and general support with some persisting reservations.
Building Safety Regulator reforms
New roles, new staff and a new fast track service pave the way for a single construction regulator.
Architectural Technologist CPDs and Communications
CIAT CPD… and how you can do it!
Cooling centres and cool spaces
Managing extreme heat in cities by directing the public to places for heat stress relief and water sources.
Winter gardens: A brief history and warm variations
Extending the season with glass in different forms and terms.
Restoring Great Yarmouth's Winter Gardens
Transforming one of the least sustainable constructions imaginable.