Column Kicker: That Correct Coordinates of Columns or Walls Are Maintained Between Floor Slabs

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Column Kicker

Column kicker is a small concrete step used at the bottom of columns or walls to make sure
that correct coordinates of columns or walls are maintained between floor slabs.
Column kicker should be used at all positions where columns or walls are constructed. After
the construction of kicker is completed, then the formwork of column or slabs can be
placed immediately, and the kicker will guarantee exact column base alignment and
location.

Dimensions and formwork of column kicker


The thickness of column kicker ranges from 50mm to 150mm whereas its width and length is the same as
the column for which the kicker is constructed. The best height of column kicker is 150mm because it
provides good structural start for column or wall.
Structurally, the thickness of kicker less than 150mm is not desired. If the kicker thickness is greater than
150mm, then it tends to slump with the weight of concrete in them.
After the formwork of column kicker is placed, then fresh concrete is placed monolithically with the slab.
Column kicker formwork installation
Advantages of column kicker:-

 Maintains column and wall dimension between slabs


 Prevent the movement of longitudinal reinforcement of columns
 Helps in maintaining the vertical alignment of columns
 Simplify the installation of column formworks, so it enhances quality speed of construction
 It ensures the provision of designated column concrete cover.

Checking column cover after kicker formwork is placed


Disadvantages of column kicker
The most outstanding disadvantage of kicker is the possible formation of joints at the bottom of
columns or walls. That is why it is sometimes eliminated, and acceptable techniques are used to install
column and wall shuttering. But the risk of errors is increased if kickers are not used.
The wrong practice associated with the provision of kicker is that some contractors provide a kicker after
casting the slab, which adds an additional unwanted Construction joint in columns near the base where
the shear is maximum and hence is unadvised. I would recommend that if you are providing a kicker it
has to be provided during the casting of the slab itself.
The only disadvantages associated is that the initial preparation and casting time of the slab with the
kicker is prolonged slightly, however I believe the advantages of providing a kicker outweighs this
problem.

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