The success of a concrete project often hinges on the relationship between the pumping contractor and the concrete producer. Establishing an effective conversation at the outset can prevent hours of troubleshooting on the job site. In today’s performance-driven construction environment, those early discussions should move beyond prescriptive mix details and instead focus on measurable performance outcomes. This article provides practical methods for introducing the performance conversation and highlights key performance tests that contractors and producers can use to align expectations and ensure reliable results.
By Travis Bennett, Associate Director of National Casualty Loss Control; and Stephan Frew, Loss Control Consultant at Risk Strategies, part of the Brown & Brown Team
Editor’s note: This article is part of a series designed to help concrete pump business owners navigate rising costs in today’s hard insurance market. Implementing strong cybersecurity measures can positively impact insurance rates and coverage.
In concrete pumping, hose construction plays a critical role in performance, safety and handling. While many factors influence hose selection — such as job site conditions, pump pressure and crew preferences — understanding the differences in hose reinforcement types can help operators and decision-makers choose the right tool for the task.
If you’ve ever felt a pump just isn’t right, you know what I mean. Maybe the controls feel off. Maybe the pressure’s spiking. Maybe there’s a noise you’ve never heard before. These small moments are our industry’s early warning system. Ignore them, and you risk more than a missed pour — you risk profits, reliability and reputation.
The business world has sure changed in the 40-plus years I have been part of it. When I started, many of the deals in the concrete industry were finalized at the local watering hole where the final price was negotiated using a pair of dice. To culminate the deal, a handshake was made, and the deal was done. It was a simpler way to do business. Boy, how I miss those days!
It is with deep sadness that we share the news of the passing of Al Kastelic, a respected former leader and longtime member of the Construction Forms family.
Tom Hollerbach, long-time ACPA member and past board member, passed away peacefully on October 25, 2025. His family asked that we share Tom’s obituary with the ACPA membership.
Please keep the Hollerbach family in your thoughts and prayers at this difficult time.
