Architectural Benefits of Precast Concrete Walls

White gray house with precast concrete wall

Precast concrete architectural panels and walls have been a quiet revolution within the architectural design world. Many of those new buildings and walls that look like they could be built from stone or bricks could actually be precast concrete. 

Why might you look to using precast concrete for your designs? Simply put, they are durable, they look good, and they come at a lower cost – let’s look at the benefits a little closer.

Durable

When built right, concrete is one of the most durable building materials we have. Concrete doesn’t cure right if it’s too hot or too cold or too wet, and this can make using traditional concrete a challenge. These challenges can make the concrete weak.

However, because precast concrete is made in a climate-controlled building, every aspect of the process is highly accurate and precise. If something does go wrong with the pour that impacts the strength and durability of the wall, it can quickly and easily be made again. With precast concrete, you know all your walls and fences will be as strong and durable as possible.

The panels can be cast with mesh and rebar embedded in them to ensure they will be standing for a long time. They are impervious to damage from moisture, wind, freeze/thaw cycles, and they even do well against earthquakes. 

Looks Good

If your image of concrete walls is grey and dull, it’s time to give them another look. With precast concrete, there are many different ways to change up the way its appearance. Precast concrete can be cast with additional pigment or aggregate to create long-lasting color or a pleasing texture. 

Depending on what look you are going for, different forms can be selected to give the concrete the look of a brick or stone wall, and custom forms can be created.

The flexibility to bring virtually any architectural vision to life is what makes precast concrete a fantastic alternative to traditional building methods. Many unusual designs can be made using precast concrete. The best part is, it’s all done at a fraction of the cost of other building materials, like brick and stone. 

Lower Cost

Precast concrete saves you money twice – once during the installation and a second time over the life of the building. Because precast concrete is made in a factory, the whole process can be carefully managed and optimized. With cast-in-place concrete walls, the form is created and then thrown away after the concrete is cured. Precast concrete uses the same forms repeatedly. A vast majority of the work is done indoors, so there are no more weather delays. This helps to lower the cost of production.

Installation is much simpler than that of a brick or stone wall. Instead of individual bricks or stone being laid, whole panels of precast concrete are installed at one time. This means significant cost savings, as the timing is shorter, and the same workers can do most of the work. No specialized bricklaying skills are needed.

Ready to get started on your precast concrete wall or fencing system? Contact American Precast Concrete, Inc. today for your free custom estimate.