Importance

Loading Importance Indicators...

Abstract

A concrete tile is disclosed having a preformed substrate member backing comprising a substantially rigid, polymeric material. The lower surface of the substrate member defines the shape of the lower surface of the tile. A concrete layer is disposed on and secured to the upper surface of the substrate member and defines the shape of the upper surface of the tile. In manufacturing the tile, a plurality of through openings in the substrate member are filled with the concrete when the concrete is applied to the substrate member. The concrete is cured on the substrate member and the hardened concrete in the openings of the substrate member forms studs securing the substrate member and concrete layer together. The use of a polymeric substrate member backing provides a tile which uses less concrete and is therefore substantially lighter in weight than other tiles of corresponding strength. The method of manufacturing the tiles utilizes the substrate member as a support for the concrete applied to its upper surface. This eliminates the previous practice of removing supporting pallets from the production line which greatly reduces the number of pallets that need to be purchased and handled.

Loading the Abstract Image...

First Claim