Modern advances have made way for better products. One of which is precast concrete. Gone are the days of boring grey blocks, today’s technology has led the way to advanced forms, texturing and coloring techniques. Going well beyond the traditional infrastructure uses, to architectural applications, beautiful fences, Hardscapes, and landscape retaining walls.
“Built Concrete Tough” from the National Precast Concrete Association gives an inside look at the advantages of precast concrete.
Strength
The strength of precast concrete gradually increases over time. Other materials can deteriorate, shrink, experience creep and stress relaxation, lose strength or deflect over time. The load-carrying capacity of precast concrete is derived from its own structural qualities and does not rely on the strength or quality of the surrounding materials.
Durability
Studies have shown that precast concrete products can provide a service life in excess of 100 years. For severe service conditions, additional design options are available that can extend the life of the precast concrete product.
Noise reduction
The combination of both concrete and insulation provide excellent soundproofing. Diminished noise from weather and traffic allows for undisturbed sleeping patterns for the resident. You can also rest assured that a precast concrete home will withstand whatever nature throws at it.
Aesthetic versatility
Precast concrete has a distinct advantage over other building materials. It can be made to resemble diverse finishes like brick, stone, wood, smooth concrete, various textures and patterns, exposed aggregate and combination finishes. The possibilities are limited only by the imagination.
Low maintenance
As a direct result of precast concrete’s high resistance to water, moisture, mold, heat, fire and insects, it is also a material that requires little maintenance. Wear and tear over time has negligible effect on concrete.
Efficiency
Construction using precast concrete can be completed much more quickly than conventional timber frame or cast-in-place concrete construction. Precast concrete products are manufactured off site in a quality controlled environment and delivered to the job site ready to install.