Concrete Facts Magazine Online

Cómo presentar su proyecto para el premio Proyecto del año de la CFA

Presentar su mejor trabajo para un premio es más que buscar aplausos. Se trata de validar el arduo trabajo de su equipo, mostrar su destreza a futuros clientes y establecer un nuevo punto de referencia para la industria del concreto colado en el sitio. El programa Project of the Year (Proyecto del año) de la Concrete Foundations Association (CFA) es la plataforma para reconocer la innovación, la habilidad técnica y la creatividad entre los contratistas de concreto de toda Norteamérica.

Si ha completado un proyecto que ha llevado a su equipo a un nuevo nivel o ha resuelto un problema complejo para un cliente, ahora es el momento de compartirlo. El plazo de presentación está abierto hasta el 24 de abril de 2026.

Los siguientes pasos le guiarán a través de los requisitos de elegibilidad, los criterios de evaluación y el proceso de presentación paso a paso para garantizar que su solicitud destaque.

 

Paso 1: Verificación de elegibilidad

Antes de reunir sus materiales, debe confirmar que usted y su proyecto cumplen los requisitos para participar en el concurso. La CFA tiene normas específicas para garantizar la equidad y unos altos estándares.

En primer lugar, debe ser miembro activo de la CFA. Quienes no sean miembros no pueden participar en el programa de premios. Si aún no es miembro, puede inscribirse a través del sitio web de la CFA para poder participar.

En segundo lugar, el proyecto debe ser una solución de concreto colado en el sitio que no haya ganado anteriormente el premio al Proyecto del año. Aunque no es necesario que los proyectos estén totalmente terminados para poder participar, la CFA señala que los trabajos de concreto terminados suelen presentar mejores resultados durante la fase de evaluación. Puede presentar proyectos terminados en cualquier año, siempre que cumplan estos criterios.

Por último, asegúrese de seleccionar la categoría correcta para su obra. Actualmente, el concurso incluye:

• Residencias unifamiliares

• Proyectos comerciales

• Apartamentos o residencias multifamiliares

• Casas completamente de concreto

• Proyectos agrícolas

• Elementos sin cimentación

• Elementos estructurales sin muro

 

Paso 2: Revisión de los criterios de evaluación

Los proyectos ganadores no se eligen al azar. Son evaluados por miembros invitados de la Asociación utilizando un estricto sistema de calificación de 10 puntos en cinco categorías específicas. Comprender estos criterios le ayudará a redactar una descripción más convincente. Los jueces evalúan los proyectos en función de la calidad de la construcción, la complejidad del proyecto, el reto que supone para el contratista, el uso de la tecnología y si ha establecido un estándar en el sector.

 

Paso 3: Reunir los datos y las descripciones necesarios

Una presentación exitosa depende de los detalles. La CFA aconseja a los solicitantes que sean diligentes a la hora de proporcionar toda la información posible.

Prepare los siguientes datos técnicos antes de comenzar la solicitud en línea:

• Nombre y ubicación del proyecto.

• Cantidad total de concreto y acero utilizados.

• Altura y grosor de las paredes.

• Superficie total del proyecto.

• Detalles sobre los acabados, sistemas y productos utilizados.

 

También deberá redactar respuestas elaboradas a varias preguntas específicas. Tómese su tiempo para responderlas, ya que cuentan la historia que hay detrás de las estadísticas. Deberá comentar:

1. Detalles importantes de las zapatas (como escalones).

1. Características destacadas de los muros (muros curvos, esquinas o columnas complejas).

1. Por qué el propietario lo seleccionó a usted como contratista.

1. Su enfoque técnico del proyecto.

1. Complejidad general y cómo superó los retos.

1. Enfoque de estimación del proyecto.

1. Materiales o procesos especiales utilizados.

 

Paso 4: Selección de imágenes de alta calidad

La fotografía es fundamental. Dado que los jueces no pueden visitar todos los sitios en persona, sus fotos son la única ventana que tienen para ver su trabajo. La CFA recomienda enviar entre seis y diez imágenes de alta resolución. Las fotografías profesionales no son obligatorias, pero sí ideales. También se recomienda proporcionar fotos o vídeos del proceso de construcción en sí, no solo del producto terminado. Ver el trabajo en curso ayuda a los jueces a apreciar la dificultad de la construcción. Recuerde identificar cualquier material protegido por derechos de autor y proporcionar los créditos fotográficos necesarios si se ha recurrido a un fotógrafo profesional.

Paso 5: Completar el formulario de inscripción en línea.

Una vez que tenga listos sus datos, descripciones y fotos, puede proceder a la solicitud en línea. Hay una tarifa de inscripción de 65 dólares por proyecto, que se paga al inscribirse. Los miembros pueden presentar tantos proyectos como deseen, siempre que abonen la tarifa correspondiente por cada uno. Las inscripciones presentadas después de esta fecha se transferirán automáticamente al programa del año siguiente.

Participar en el programa Proyecto del año es una forma eficaz de promocionar su negocio. Los proyectos ganadores se utilizan en los materiales de publicitarios, las publicaciones impresas y las iniciativas de relaciones públicas de la CFA. Esta exposición demuestra la capacidad de su empresa para afrontar retos técnicos y ofrecer resultados de calidad.

Si tiene un proyecto que le gustaría presentar para un premio, visite el sitio web de la CFA o escanee el código QR.

CFACON26 se traslada a Milwaukee

La Concrete Foundations Convention, más conocida como #CFACON, lleva la industria del concreto colado en el sitio a Milwaukee, Wisconsin, del 21 al 23 de julio de 2026. La CFACON ha sido el principal evento anual sobre cimentaciones de concreto, en el que líderes de toda Norteamérica se reúnen para aprender, crear contactos y comprometerse con el crecimiento tanto de sus empresas como a nivel individual. La CFACON26 ofrece tres días dinámicos de formación, exposiciones, creación de contactos, premios y experiencias inolvidables.

Se llevará a cabo en el Brookfield Conference Center, la CFACON26 ofrece una programación diseñada tanto para contratistas de cimentaciones comerciales y residenciales como para diseñadores, fabricantes y proveedores. El evento comienza el martes con reuniones, la certificación Residential Concrete Foundation Technician y una recepción de bienvenida en la Sala de exposiciones, lo que marca la pauta para la colaboración y la conexión.

El miércoles y el jueves se ofrece una sólida programación de sesiones formativas que abordan temas de actualidad y relevancia para los profesionales del concreto de hoy en día. Los asistentes podrán disfrutar de sesiones y mesas redondas centradas en las nuevas tendencias técnicas, la gestión de riesgos y las prácticas legales recomendadas, la creación de marca y la gestión de la reputación, así como estrategias para fortalecer y proteger sus empresas en un mercado en constante evolución. La creación de contactos se mantiene como el pilar de la CFACON26, con una reunión social fuera del recinto y una memorable velada social el miércoles por la noche en el Museo Harley-Davidson.

Uno de los momentos más destacados de la CFACON26 es la Awards Luncheon Gala, en la que la CFA reconoce con orgullo la excelencia en toda la industria. Los premios Project of the Year de 2026 ofrecen a los contratistas la oportunidad de mostrar la artesanía que, con demasiada frecuencia, desaparece una vez que se vierten los cimientos y se levantan las estructuras. Estos premios ponen de relieve la maestría técnica y la visión creativa que definen la industria del concreto colado en el sitio. Además, los Professional Awards volverán a honrar a las personas y empresas que van más allá para elevar la construcción de muros vertidos y fortalecer la industria en general.

CFACON26 en Milwaukee promete ser un evento que no se puede perder. Ya está abierta la inscripción para la CFACON26 en Milwaukee, con espacio de exposición y oportunidades de patrocinio limitados. Tanto si planea asistir, exponer o patrocinar, ahora es el momento de asegurar su lugar y participar en las conversaciones que darán forma al futuro de la industria del concreto colado en el sitio.

Atrapado en acción

Encontrar formas significativas de conectar la obra y la oficina puede ser un reto para cualquier empresa constructora. En The Bartley Corporation, una idea sencilla se convirtió en un potente programa que hace precisamente eso, al tiempo que celebra la artesanía, atrae a los clientes y muestra el orgullo que los equipos sienten por su trabajo.

El programa Pic of the Month de la empresa comenzó como una forma de acercar a los equipos y destacar la calidad del trabajo que se realiza en las obras. La idea, concebida por Andy Bartley, surgió del deseo de crear una mayor visibilidad entre la obra y la oficina, al tiempo que se ofrecía a los equipos una plataforma para mostrar el trabajo del que se sentían más orgullosos.

Para facilitar la participación, Bartley aprovechó Slack, una plataforma para la comunicación entre equipos, para animar al personal de obra a enviar fotos desde el frente de trabajo. Al principio, varios jefes de proyecto aprovecharon la oportunidad, deseosos de destacar obras bien organizadas, los detalles bien ejecutados y los momentos más destacados de los proyectos en curso. Lo que comenzó como un intercambio informal de fotos se convirtió rápidamente en algo más estructurado, a medida que aumentaban las conversaciones sobre cómo se ejecutaban los trabajos y qué hacía que ciertos proyectos destacaran.

En poco tiempo, la idea se convirtió en un concurso formal de la Pic of the Month (foto del mes). Las fotos se compartían internamente y luego se utilizaban como parte de los esfuerzos de marketing de Bartley con los clientes. El programa cobró impulso cuando los empleados de las obras comenzaron a preguntar por los proyectos, a compartir información sobre cómo se completaban aspectos específicos del trabajo y a asumir una mayor responsabilidad en la documentación de su trabajo artesanal.

La respuesta fue inmediata y entusiasta. Los miembros del equipo de obra disfrutaron al enviar fotos y ver su trabajo reconocido, mientras que los clientes agradecieron que se destacaran sus proyectos. Cada mes, se seleccionaban los ganadores y se entregaban los premios, lo que reforzaba la idea de que el trabajo de calidad y la atención al detalle no pasan desapercibidos.

Las redes sociales se convirtieron en una extensión natural del programa. Cada foto ganadora se comparte públicamente, destacando el proyecto, el cliente y la ubicación, y la votación suele realizarse en las plataformas sociales. Estas publicaciones no solo celebran a los equipos que están detrás del trabajo, sino que también ofrecen a los clientes y socios una visión entre bastidores de las capacidades de Bartley Corporation.

Un ejemplo destacado fue un proyecto comercial de almacenamiento en Washington D. C., donde los equipos estaban vertiendo una losa sobre un entablado metálico. Las fotos de la obra llamaron la atención de un superintendente, lo que provocó conversaciones internas y reforzó la confianza en la ejecución del equipo. Momentos como estos subrayan el amplio impacto del programa. Lo que comienza como una foto a menudo conduce a un mayor compromiso y conciencia en toda la empresa.

Además del reconocimiento, el programa se ha convertido en una herramienta de conexión. Los empleados de todos los departamentos están más comprometidos, los clientes obtienen una visión más clara de los servicios de Bartley y los equipos sienten orgullo al ver que su trabajo se comparte públicamente. Esto refuerza la idea de pertenencia, al poder decir «¡Ese es mi trabajo!» y recuerda a todos los involucrados por qué el trabajo es importante.

Al final de cada año, los clientes seleccionan la Photo of the Year (Foto del año) entre las ganadoras mensuales, destacando un proyecto que realmente sobresale. Hacer un repaso de la colección de imágenes sirve para recordar los proyectos diversos, únicos e impresionantes en los que Bartley ha tenido el privilegio de participar y genera entusiasmo por lo que está por venir.

Programas como la Photo of the Month (Foto del mes) de Bartley Corporation reflejan algo más grande dentro del sector de los cimientos: la importancia de reconocer el trabajo de calidad y celebrar a los equipos que lo realizan. Ese mismo espíritu se plasma en el concurso anual Projects of the Year (Proyectos del año) de la CFA. El programa, abierto a todos los miembros de la CFA, ofrece la oportunidad de presentar proyectos destacados para su revisión por pares y el reconocimiento del sector. Ganar el título de Project of the Year de la CFA no solo destaca la excelencia técnica y la artesanía, sino que también muestra la innovación y la profesionalidad que definen a los contratistas de cimentaciones actuales. Al igual que las fotos de Bartley capturan momentos de orgullo en acción, el concurso Projects of the Year de la CFA ofrece a los miembros una plataforma para compartir su mejor trabajo con el resto de la industria.

Si está interesado en presentar un proyecto para el Project of the Year, visite el sitio web de la CFA en www.cfaconcretepros.org/association-awards o escanee el código QR.

World of Concrete Recap: Foundation Contractors Night, Education and Industry Innovation

World of Concrete once again proved why it remains a primary gathering for the concrete and masonry industries, bringing together contractors, suppliers, educators and innovators from across the country. For CFA and its members, the week was packed with meaningful networking, valuable education and ongoing conversations on technology innovations.

Every year on the first night of the show, CFA kicks off the week with Foundation Contractors Night, a tradition that continues to be one of our largest gatherings of CFA members throughout the year. Hosted at the top of The STRAT Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas, the event provided a welcoming space for members to reconnect with familiar faces while also introducing new contractors and national associates to the CFA community. Conversations flowed easily as attendees shared stories from the field and notes on their market conditions, while also taking a step back from talking shop to relax and enjoy the friendships that have grown through the CFA.

Foundation Contractors Night would not be possible without the generous support of CFA sponsors, whose continued commitment to the association plays a vital role in bringing members together year after year. CFA extends a sincere thank you to all sponsors and to everyone who attended and helped make the evening a success. Events like these serve as a reminder that, while the industry continues to evolve, the strength of the CFA remains rooted in its people and the relationships they build.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Why Membership Matters: Seneca Foundations at World of Concrete

For many contractors, World of Concrete is a chance to see new products and walk the show floor. For Seneca Foundations, it represents something more important: an investment in people.

This year, owner Curtis Graf brought four members of his team to Las Vegas. The decision to take a full week away from jobsites was not made lightly. In an industry where time is production and production drives revenue, stepping away requires commitment. For Seneca Foundations, that commitment reflects their belief that growth starts with education and connection.

World of Concrete offered something rarely available during the busy season: a chance to get away and connect as a team. Away from the daily pressures of schedules and inspections, the group had time to reflect and engage with new ideas together. For newer team members, the experience served as both introduction and immersion into the broader concrete foundations industry. For the seasoned leaders, it was an opportunity to stay sharp and reinforce best practices.

Throughout the week, the Seneca team attended multiple training sessions, including the CFA industry training courses. According to Graf, the CFA sessions stood out as the strongest and most practical sessions of the week. The content aligned directly with the real-world challenges foundation contractors face, from code interpretation to field execution and communication with inspectors.

Technical training, Graf emphasized, is not optional in today’s environment. Clear understanding of standards and the ability to communicate confidently with inspectors can make a significant difference on a project. Investing in that knowledge strengthens both individual team members and the company as a whole.

At the same time, Graf acknowledged that companies often don’t take full advantage of the training resources available to them. The CFA provides ongoing technical education and support year-round, resources that can elevate teams beyond the annual trade show experience. For Seneca Foundations, World of Concrete served as a reminder of the value those tools bring and the importance of continued engagement.

Beyond the classroom, the week also reinforced the power of relationships in the industry. The team attended the CFA Foundation Contractors Night, where members from across the country gathered to reconnect and catch up with each other. Events like this create space for conversations that do not always happen in formal sessions. Things like discussions about jobsite challenges, evolving code requirements and lessons learned in the field.

For contractors like Seneca Foundations, networking is not about handing out business cards. It is about learning from peers who face the same daily realities. It is about hearing how others are adapting, improving processes and navigating industry changes. These connections strengthen not only individual companies but the broader association community.

Membership in the CFA offers access to education, technical resources and a nationwide network of professionals committed to excellence. Seneca Foundations’ investment in attending World of Concrete, and in bringing key team members along, reflects an understanding that growth requires both knowledge and community.

In the end, the week was not simply about attending a trade show. It was about reinforcing standards, sharpening skills and building relationships within the CFA that continue long after the event ends. For Seneca Foundations, that is why membership matters.

The next opportunity for members to capitalize on those same benefits is the 2026 Concrete Foundations Convention (CFACON). Each year, CFA members gather to share practical insight and invest in continued education designed specifically for foundation contractors. Like World of Concrete, CFACON provides space to step away from daily operations, engage with peers and return home with new ideas and renewed energy.  For contractors looking to grow their teams and deepen their industry connections, it is another chance to turn membership into measurable impact.

If you would like to attend CFACON26, you can register on the CFA website or scan the QR code.

The Top 10 Technical Inquiries in Concrete Foundation Construction

Construction professionals make hundreds of decisions a day. Navigating the complexities of running a business alone is hard enough. But to stay on top of industry advancements, evolving codes, new materials and the constant pressure to deliver structural integrity on tight schedules—we all need to rely from time to time on the advice from a colleague.

CFA not only serves as a critical technical authority for the cast-in-place concrete industry but also offers valuable resources like the CFA Member Connect Hotlines. This program provides CFA members with direct access to industry experts who can address their most pressing technical challenges and business inquiries. By leveraging these resources, professionals can move beyond simple compliance to understanding the “why” behind technical requirements and how their peers are dealing with similar issues. This member resource not only puts you in touch with industry experts and the CFA team, but the CFA also works with the engineering team at the American Concrete Institute to assist members in reviewing issues related to technical codes and standards.

This article shares the ten most common questions CFA’s Member Connect Hotline received in 2025 and a summary of the technical resources given. While these inquiries represent the technical questions we’ve been asked, our Member Connect 411 hotline connects members to businesses solutions too. Once you are done reading this list, check out the full CFA Member Connect Hotline program and database of inquiries.

10 Does a variance in the top-of-wall elevation warrant the rejection of a foundation?

ANSWER: Not typically. According to ACI 332,1 acceptable tolerances for the levelness of a foundation wall are ±0.75 in. Variations within this range are generally aesthetic or framing concerns rather than structural failures. They do not compromise the foundation’s

integrity.

Do not rush to demolition or costly rework. Instead, correct variations that fall within the allowable tolerance by grinding or patching the surface. This practical approach ensures a level bearing surface for floor systems without unnecessary delays or expenses.

 

9 How long should a contractor wait to strip new aluminum forms to prevent damage?

ANSWER: New forms lack a seasoned aluminum oxide layer and are highly susceptible to damage from the alkaline concrete mix. To prevent this, stripping should be delayed to allow sufficient concrete strength gain. This typically means waiting 24 to 48 hours, depending on ambient temperature and the mix design.

Prioritize equipment longevity over speed for the first few pours with a new set of forms. Avoid next-day stripping, especially in cold weather, to protect the delicate oxide layer and extend the life of your investment.

 

8 Why do test results show chloride ions when no calcium chloride was added to the mix?

ANSWER: While ASTM C12182 tests for water-soluble chlorides, their mere presence does not indicate a violation of a “no calcium chloride” specification. As long as the levels remain below the permissible limits set by ACI 318,3 the concrete is compliant.

It is key to provide documentation from the ready-mix supplier confirming that no calcium chloride was intentionally added to the mix and educate project stakeholders that trace chlorides are naturally occurring and unavoidable in most cases. The focus should be on compliance with the maximum specified threshold limits rather than the simple presence of chloride ions.

 

7 Are bent dowels required to connect a slab-on-grade to a foundation wall in non-seismic zones?

ANSWER: No. For projects in Seismic Design Category A, neither International Residential Code (IRC) 20184 nor ACI 3321 mandates a hard dowel connection. For lateral support, the friction and mechanical interlock between the slab and the foundation wall are often sufficient.

Another option is an engineered keyway or other interlocking mechanism at the joint between the slab and the wall to provide additional stability without requiring dowels. This approach satisfies structural stability requirements, provides the necessary lateral support and solves the problem of not being able to penetrate aluminum forms with dowels.

 

6 Do low seven-day concrete test breaks mean the concrete will fail to meet its 28-day design strength?

ANSWER: Not necessarily. Concrete strength gain is logarithmic, not linear, and is heavily influenced by the mix design and curing conditions. The CFA’s Cold Weather Research Report provides relevant data on this matter. For instance, Mix No. 9, a 5.5-sack Type I cement mix, achieved approximately 3200 PSI at seven days and ultimately reached 4290 PSI at 28 days. Similarly, Mix No. 10, with a water reducer, reached roughly 3500 PSI at seven days and finished at 4470 PSI. These examples show that even with variations in seven-day performance, a properly designed 4000 PSI mix has a high potential to meet or exceed its specified strength at 28 days, even under less-than-ideal curing temperatures.

Before assuming failure, verify the curing conditions of the test cylinders and maintain proper field curing for the in-place concrete. Wait for the definitive 28-day test results before considering more drastic measures like core sampling.

 

5 What causes hydrogen gas bubbles and “worm tracks” on concrete surfaces cast against aluminum?

ANSWER: This common issue stems from a chemical reaction. The high alkalinity (pH > 12) of fresh concrete reacts with elemental aluminum, producing hydrogen gas and sometimes creating bubbles and unsightly trails on the concrete surface. This surface reaction is particularly common with new or unseasoned forms. Additionally, the chemical bonding between aluminum and cementitious materials leads to concrete buildup on the forms, which is much stronger than physical adhesion.

One effective method is to pretreat the aluminum forms to create a protective layer of aluminum oxide. This can be achieved using proprietary seasoning products or lime slurry. The most effective method involves submerging the forms in a controlled environment with a specialized solution. Other methods include applying a resinous or powder coating to the aluminum forms, using highly reactive form release agents for the first few pours, and using a low-alkali concrete mix.

 

4 Does the presence of honeycombing require the removal and replacement of a foundation wall?

ANSWER: Rarely. Honeycombing is typically a surface issue caused by inadequate consolidation of the concrete. Per ACI 3321 and ACI 546R, repair is only strictly required if the reinforcement is exposed or if the depth of the void compromises the wall’s load-bearing capacity.

Assess the depth of the honeycombing before reacting. For minor honeycomb areas (less than 0.5 in. deep), patching with a mortar mix of one-part portland cement to two-and-a-half parts sand is typically sufficient. For larger or deeper areas, the defective concrete should be chipped away to sound material and filled with a patching mortar. ACI 546R provides detailed guidance on patching procedures.

 

3 Must concrete placement be halted if form oil is sprayed onto the reinforcement?

ANSWER: No. This is a common point of contention, but the code is clear. ACI 332-20 Section 4.2.41 and its commentary explicitly state that common surface contaminants like form oil are not detrimental to bond strength. Deformed bars rely on mechanical interlock with the concrete, a mechanism that a light coating of oil does not negate. The bond mechanism relies primarily on the mechanical interlock provided by the deformations on the bar, and contaminants like form oil are removed by friction during the loading process.

Concerns about form oil likely stem from a conservative interpretation of older specifications, such as ACI 301-96, which required reinforcement to be free of materials deleterious to bond. However, updated research and codes, including ACI 332-20, provide clear evidence that form oil is not a deleterious material.

You can proceed with the concrete placement, as the presence of form oil on the reinforcement does not compromise the structural integrity or bond strength of the concrete-rebar system.

 

2 Is it acceptable to backfill a foundation wall without bracing?

ANSWER: Absolutely not. This is a non-negotiable safety and structural requirement. The International Residential Code (IRC) R404.1.7 requires that backfill should not be placed against a wall until it has sufficient strength and has been anchored to the floor above or sufficiently braced to prevent damage. This requirement ensures that the wall can resist the lateral forces exerted by the backfill.

There are cost-effective bracing methods that are commonly used, including temporary bracing systems like wood or steel braces, corner and offset bracing like backfilling to full height at corners to provide natural bracing, as well as counterforts or buttresses like thickened areas of walls cast integrally with the main wall which are particularly effective for long wall spans. Incorporate bracing into your standard workflow. The backfill material and method of placement significantly impact the pressure exerted on the wall. Using well-draining soils or granular fills can reduce lateral pressure. The fill should be placed in layers (lifts) of no more than two feet and compacted lightly to avoid excessive pressure.

 

1 Can concrete be placed safely when ambient temperatures drop below 20 degrees Fahrenheit without expensive prescriptive enclosures?

ANSWER: Yes. Both ACI 306R9 and CFA Cold Weather Research from 2004 demonstrate that the critical performance metrics are the internal concrete temperature and its maturity, not the ambient air temperature. Concrete can be successfully placed and cured in temperatures as low as 10 degrees Fahrenheit, provided that appropriate mix designs and minimal protection measures are used. The hydration process is exothermic, meaning it generates its own heat. This allows the concrete to continue gaining strength even in sub-freezing air.

Instead of adhering to overly restrictive local requirements, you can propose alternative methods that are supported by ACI 3069 and CFA research. These include using a mix design tailored for cold weather, such as one with Type III cement or accelerating admixtures, employing minimal protection for the first 24 to 48 hours to retain heat and prevent freezing, as well as monitoring in-place concrete temperatures using maturity meters to ensure that the concrete reaches 500 psi before freezing.

 

CONCLUSION

Technical challenges in foundation work often stem from misinterpretations of code intent or reliance on outdated practices. As these top inquiries show, the answers lie in a deep understanding of material science, specific code references and access to expert guidance.

The CFA’s Member Connect hotlines empower members to resolve disputes quickly, gain clarity on complex issues and keep projects moving efficiently. By leveraging this program, the database of past inquiries and the resources it provides, professionals can build with evidence-backed confidence and use construction methods that are safe, compliant and innovative.

As with any concrete mixture, it is essential to conduct trial batches to confirm the specific properties of the concrete. Final results can be affected by various factors, such as temperature, humidity, and the specific components used in the mixture. We recommend consulting a local concrete foundation professional for guidance.

Please note that no information provided herein should be interpreted as a warranty or guarantee, whether expressed or implied. This includes, but is not limited to, any implied warranty of fitness for a particular purpose.

 

SOURCES

1. ACI Committee 332. “Code Requirements for Residential Concrete (ACI 332-20) and Commentary.” Farmington Hills, Michigan: American Concrete Institute, July 6, 2020.
2. ASTM Subcommittee C09.69. ASTM C1218/C1218M-20 Standard Test Method for Water-Soluble Chloride in Mortar and Concrete. West Conshohocken, Pennsylvania: ASTM, 2020.
3. ACI Committee 318. ACI 318-25: Building Code for Structural Concrete—Code Requirements and Commentary. Farmington Hills, Michigan: American Concrete Institute, 2025.
4. International Code Council, Inc. 2018 International Residential Code. Country Club Hills, Illinois: International Code Council, 2017.
5. Concrete Foundations Association. “Cold Weather Research Report (2004).” Concrete Foundations Association of North America, 2004.
6. ACI Committee 546. “ACI 546R-14: Guide to Concrete Repair.” Farmington Hills, Michigan: American Concrete Institute, September 2014.
7. ACI Committee 301. 301-96: Specification for Structural Concrete Buildings. Farmington Hills, Michigan: American Concrete Institute, 2002.
8. International Code Council, Inc. 2015 International Residential Code: R404.1.7. Country Club Hills, Illinois: International Code Council, Inc., 2014.
9. ACI Committee 306. ACI 306R-16: Guide to Cold Weather Concreting. Farmington Hills, Michigan: American Concrete Institute, 2016.

Strengthening Support for the Foundation Industry

For decades, CFA has served as a critical technical resource for foundation contractors and the broader concrete industry.  From best practices and standard development to real-world problem-solving, CFA’s mission has always centered on helping members build smarter, safer and more efficiently. As the industry evolves, CFA remains committed to strengthening the resources available to its members.

This commitment has led to the refinement of the CFA Member Connect Hotlines, a program designed to give members coordinated access to reliable guidance when technical questions arise. This resource connects members with the CFA team, a library of technical documents, a network of industry experts and even the engineering team at the American Concrete Institute (ACI). It reinforces CFA’s role as a go-to source for credible, contractor-focused solutions.

Below are answers to common questions members may have about the CFA Member Connect Hotlines and how to use them.

WHAT QUESTIONS CAN I SUBMIT TO THE MEMBER CONNECT HOTLINES?

Members can submit a wide range of inquiries related to both business operations and technical challenges.

• The 411 Hotline is for business intelligence and peer networking. You can ask about operational strategy, equipment vetting or market benchmarking.
• The 911 Hotline handles technical inquiries related to concrete foundations and below-grade construction. This includes questions about codes and standards, foundation design considerations, forming systems, reinforcement, waterproofing, drainage, insulation, concrete placement, curing and troubleshooting jobsite challenges.

HOW DOES A MEMBER ASK A QUESTION?

Submitting an inquiry is simple. Members can email hotline@cfaconcretepros.org. Once a question is submitted, it is routed to the appropriate CFA resource for review and response. The goal is to make the process straightforward so members can get the support they need.

WHO PROVIDES THE SUPPORT FOR THE HOTLINES?

The CFA Member Connect Hotlines are structured to ensure members receive the right level of support for every type of question.

• CFA team: For many inquiries, CFA staff provide an initial coordinated response using CFA technical resources, industry best practices and applicable codes as references.

Suggested technical consultant list: For project-specific engineering needs and onsite needs, the CFA team can connect you to a list of suggested industry consultants and professionals.

• ACI engineering team: When a question requires a deeper interpretation of codes, specifications or standards, it is escalated to the engineering team at American Concrete Institute (ACI) for their review.
• CFA technical committee: For complex or high-impact issues, questions may also be reviewed by the CFA technical committee, a group of experienced members who contribute to real-world insight and peer-based guidance.
• 411 member network: For the 411 inquiries, you will be connected to a list of over 50 members who have years of experience working in the field.

IS THIS RESOURCE INTENDED TO REPLACE ENGINEERS OR DESIGN PROFESSIONALS?

No. The CFA Member Connect Hotlines are designed to connect and complement, not replace, licensed engineers, architects or project-specific design professionals. The program coordinates access to guidance, best practices and industry perspective, but final design decisions and approvals should always be handled by qualified professionals familiar with the specific project conditions.

CAN MEMBERS ASK QUESTIONS ABOUT UNIQUE OR JOB-SPECIFIC CHALLENGES?

Yes. Many technical questions arise from unique site conditions or unexpected challenges in the field. While CFA cannot provide stamped designs or project-specific engineering, the 911 Hotline can help members think through potential solutions, share common approaches and highlight considerations that may guide their next steps.

WHY IS THIS RESOURCE VALUABLE FOR CFA MEMBERS?

Access to coordinated technical and business support helps members make informed decisions, reduce risk and improve consistency across projects. By centralizing technical knowledge and connecting members with experienced professionals, the CFA Member Connect Hotlines support better outcomes in the field. It reinforces the value of membership within a collaborative, contractor-driven association. Further, these inquiries and responses are logged in the CFA member portal to help members troubleshoot common questions.

As the concrete foundations industry continues to change, CFA remains focused on being a reliable partner for its members. This program is another step toward ensuring contractors have the support and insight they need to tackle challenges and move the industry forward.

How to Submit Your Project for the CFA Project of the Year Award

Submitting your best work for an award is more than just seeking applause. It is about validating your team’s hard work, showcasing your craftsmanship to future clients and setting a new benchmark for the cast-in-place concrete industry. The Concrete Foundations Association (CFA) Project of the Year program is the platform for recognizing innovation, technical skill and creativity among concrete contractors across North America.

If you have completed a project that pushed your team to new heights or solved a complex problem for a client, now is the time to share it. The submission window is open until April 24, 2026.

The following steps will walk you through the eligibility requirements, judging criteria and step-by-step submission process to ensure your application stands out.

STEP 1: VERIFY YOUR ELIGIBILITY

Before gathering your materials, you need to confirm that you and your project qualify for the competition. The CFA has specific rules to ensure fairness and high standards.

First, you must be an active CFA member. Non-members are not eligible to participate in the awards program. If you are not currently a member, you can join via the CFA website to unlock eligibility.

Second, the project must be a cast-in-place concrete solution that has not previously won a Project of the Year Award. While projects do not need to be fully completed to be eligible, the CFA notes that finished concrete work often presents stronger during the judging phase. You can submit projects completed in any year as long as they meet these criteria.

Finally, ensure you select the correct category for your work. The competition currently includes:

• Single-Family Residences
• Commercial Projects
• Apartments or Multi-Family Residences
• All-Concrete Homes
• Agricultural Projects
• Non-Foundation Elements
• Non-wall Structural Elements

STEP 2: UNDERSTAND THE JUDGING CRITERIA

Winning projects are not chosen at random. They are evaluated by invited members of the Association using a strict 10-point rating system across five specific categories. Understanding these criteria will help you write a more compelling narrative. Judges evaluate projects based on construction quality, project complexity, the challenge for the contractor, use of technology and whether it set an industry standard.

STEP 3: GATHER REQUIRED DATA AND NARRATIVES

A successful submission relies on detail. CFA advises applicants to be diligent in providing as much information as possible.

Prepare the following technical data before you start the online application:

• Project name and location
• Total amount of concrete and steel used
• Wall heights and thicknesses
• Total project square footage
• Details on finishes, systems and products used

You will also need to write narrative answers for several specific questions. Take your time with these responses, as they tell the story behind the statistics. You will need to discuss:

• Significant footing details (such as steps)
• Outstanding wall features (curved walls, complex corners or columns)
• Why the owner selected you as the contractor
• Your technical approach to the project
• Overall complexity and how you met challenges
• Your approach to estimating the project
• Special materials or processes used

STEP 4: CURATE HIGH-QUALITY VISUALS

Photography is critical. Since judges cannot visit every site in person, your photos are the only window they have into your work. CFA encourages submitting between six and 10 high-resolution images. While professional photography is not mandatory, it is ideal. You are also encouraged to provide photos or video of the construction process itself, not just the finished product. Seeing the work in progress helps judges appreciate the difficulty of the build. Remember to identify any copyrighted material and provide necessary photo credits if a professional photographer was used.

STEP 5: COMPLETE THE ONLINE SUBMISSION FORM

Once your data, narratives and photos are ready, you can proceed to the online application. There is a $65 entry fee per project, which is paid upon entry. Members are welcome to submit as many projects as they wish, provided the fee is paid for each one. Any entries submitted after this date will automatically be rolled over into the following year’s program.

Participating in the Project of the Year program is a powerful way to market your business. Winning projects are used in CFA marketing materials, print publications and public relations efforts. This exposure demonstrates your company’s ability to handle technical challenges and deliver quality results.

If you have a project you would like to submit for an award, visit the CFA website or scan the QR code below.

Caught in Action

Finding meaningful ways to connect the field and the office can be a challenge for any construction company. At The Bartley Corporation, a simple idea turned into a powerful program that does just that, while also celebrating craftsmanship, engaging customers and showcasing the pride crews take in their work.

The company’s Pic of the Month program began as a way to bring teams closer together and highlight the quality work happening across jobsites. Conceived by Andy Bartley, the idea was rooted in a desire to create better visibility between the field and office, while giving crews a platform to show off the work they were most proud of.

To make participation easy, Bartley leveraged Slack, a platform for team communication, to encourage field team members to submit jobsite photos. Early on, several project managers jumped at the opportunity, eager to highlight clean jobsites, well-executed details and standout moments from active projects. What started as informal photo sharing quickly evolved into something more structured as conversations grew around how jobs were executed and what made certain projects stand out.

Before long, the idea became a formal photo of the month contest. Photos were shared internally and then used as part of Bartley’s marketing efforts with customers. The program gained momentum as employees in the field began asking about projects, sharing insights into how specific aspects of the work were completed and taking greater ownership in documenting their craftsmanship.

The response was immediate and enthusiastic. Field team members enjoyed submitting photos and seeing their work recognized, while customers appreciated having their projects highlighted. Each month, winners were selected and prizes were awarded, reinforcing the idea that quality work and attention to detail do not go unnoticed.

Social media became a natural extension of the program. Each winning photo is shared publicly, highlighting the project, customer and location, with voting often taking place on social platforms. These posts not only celebrate the crews behind the work but also give customers and partners a behind-the-scenes look at the Bartley Corporation’s capabilities.

One standout example included a commercial self-storage project in Washington, D.C., where crews were pouring a slab for a metal deck. Photos from the jobsite caught the attention of a superintendent, sparking internal conversations and reinforcing confidence in the team’s execution. Moments like these underscore the broader impact of the program. What begins as a photo often leads to deeper engagement and awareness across the company.

Beyond recognition, the program has become a tool for connection. Employees across departments are more engaged, customers gain insight into Bartley’s services, and crews feel a sense of pride seeing their work shared publicly. It reinforces the idea of ownership, being able to say “That’s my job!” and reminds everyone involved why the work matters.

At the end of each year, customers select a Photo of the Year from the monthly winners, highlighting a project that truly stands out. Looking back at the collection of images serves as a reminder of the diverse, unique and impressive projects Bartley has had the privilege to be part of and creates excitement for what lies ahead.

Programs like the Bartley Corporation’s Pic of the Month reflect something bigger within the foundation industry: the importance of recognizing quality work and celebrating the crews behind it. That same spirit is embodied in CFA’s annual Projects of the Year contest. Open to all CFA members, the program provides an opportunity to submit standout projects for peer review and industry recognition. Earning the title of a CFA Project of the Year not only highlights technical excellence and craftsmanship but also showcases the innovation and professionalism that define today’s foundation contractors. Just as Bartley’s photos capture moments of pride in action, the CFA Projects of the Year contest offers members a platform to share their best work with the broader industry.

If you are interested in submitting a project for Project of the Year, visit CFA’s website at cfaconcretepros.org/associationawards or scan the QR code below.

 

 

 

 

Do you have photos of exceptional work or aspects of your business “caught in action” you would like to nominate? Send them directly to CFA Membership Director, Trenton Baty, at trenton.baty@cfaconcretepros.org.

Bulletproof Your Business Against Lawsuits

By Larry Oxenham, senior advisor, American Society for Asset Protection

Lawsuits are not just a threat to small businesses across America; they are expensive and always on the horizon. As one small business owner told me, “I spend as much time trying to prevent lawsuits as I do running my business.”

More than 12 million lawsuits totaling more than $160 billion are filed each year at an average cost of more than $4,500 per year for each small business, plus time lost and escalation of insurance premiums.

How much insurance is enough; how much is too much?

Our strategy is straightforward: e.g., we don’t believe in fighting lawsuits, we believe in preventing them in the first place. We have taught this strategy to small businesses nationally for more than 25 years. At the Concrete Foundations Convention 2026, I will walk you through the simple but powerful technique that can allow you to build a rock-solid barrier between you and lawsuits and, at the end of the presentation, we will show you exactly how to put this strategy in place to protect all of your business and personal assets. If you would like to attend CFACON26 and this seminar, visit the CFA website or scan the QR code.