Modern construction methods and technological developments are a boon to the construction industry. With the escalating prices of labor and construction materials, it is vital for construction companies and clients to look for methods that can speed up the construction process and finishing touches, and find ways to save without sacrificing the strength, durability, and aesthetics of the construction.
Turning to precast concrete
One of the modern construction methods is to use precast concrete for walls and floors. This means that pieces of the wall or floor are cast in a factory in different sizes, according to the requirements of the home or building. Precast concrete can likewise be used for a variety of decorative purposes to enhance the look of certain spaces.
Precast concrete can be used for small and large-scale construction of buildings such as hotels, office buildings, apartments, and warehouses. Home construction also benefits from using precast concrete.
Advantages of using precast concrete
Building construction is a labor-intensive process. Normally, wooden forms with the required steel bar reinforcements in the required shape are constructed before mixed concrete is poured into the forms and allowed to cure.
- Precast concrete is manufactured in a factory with a controlled environment. The control over the mix, as well as the slabs’ placement and curing, are consistent, and so the quality is maintained.
- The manufacturer can give volume discounts because the raw materials can be used for different projects. Likewise, they can make plenty of copies using the same precast mold.
- Precasting is not affected by weather conditions as it is manufactured in a factory, so the product remains the same.
- Precast concrete is easier to install because it is modular and the laborers do not have to wait for the concrete to cure. Therefore, the installation time is reduced and, consequently, the company realizes savings.
Applications of precast concrete
Precast concrete has various applications. It can be used for pipes and culverts, bridge beams, architectural panels, foundation walls, traffic barriers and sound walls (sound barriers), steps, fences, double Ts and pool coping. Precast concrete can also be used for a retaining wall.
Precast retaining walls are cost-effective and easier to install. They come in different dimensions, designs, and textures to fit a particular purpose.
Precast concrete has decorative applications as well. You can use them for bathtubs and sinks. They make great countertops. You can use them to create planters, rock features in your garden and use them as paving stones on your lawn. If you are building a fireplace, precast concrete will be good as a fireplace surround. Many architectural elements such as accent strips, quoins, windowsills, and lintels are just some of the things where precast concrete will provide the perfect masonry detail and decorative focus.
With precast concrete, you can have the strength and durability of traditional masonry work without extensive labor. It is easier to create decorative and architectural features that may be difficult to execute using traditional methods, with a variety of styles, designs and finishes available.
