Planning begins with an evaluation of the site. A large, flat, open site is ideal, but not common. Therefore, evaluate the site with regard to slab layout and the movement of materials and equipment around the slab. If the site is tight around the building, consider sequencing the pouring of slabs and panels from within the building. A plan or sketch showing the pouring and erection sequence relative to the site and floor plan of the building can identify potential problems.
Engineering is a critical phase of tilt-up projects.
Consult an engineer with experience or familiarity with tilt-up construction and current design methods. Engineering tilt-up panels to withstand service and lifting loads is critical. But using a design that is too conservative could produce panels that are thicker and heavier than required. The thickness of a concrete panel usually is determined by a quantity called the slenderness ratio. The generally accepted slenderness ratio on tilt-up walls is 50.