precast concrete with vines growing over the top

Is cast-in-place or precast concrete right for you?

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world, and it isn’t hard to understand why. This material is incredibly durable, requires little to no maintenance, and is easy to afford.

Still, you’ll need to make some crucial decisions before you use concrete in your next project. As part of that, you’ll need to choose between two basic types of concrete—precast concrete and cast-in-place concrete. Read on to learn about the pros and cons of both options (and help find the right one for your situation).

Defining Precast and Cast-In-Place Concrete

Precast and cast-in-place concrete are similar in many ways, and both of these products will deliver the complete list of benefits you’d expect from concrete. However, you’ll still need to understand the differences between these concrete options in order to make the best decision for your project.

With that in mind, here’s what you should know about:

Precast Concrete

The term “precast concrete” describes concrete that is poured, molded, and cured in a manufacturing plant before being transported to a construction site. As a result, precast concrete is always manufactured under ideal conditions, which gives these concrete products several advantages.

Cast-In-Place Concrete

On the other hand, cast-in-place concrete (otherwise known as “site-cast” or “in-situ” concrete) is poured, molded, and cured at the construction site. Because of this, it does not need to be transported to the work site, making it an appealing option for jobs involving awkwardly-shaped or extra-large concrete molds.

Which Concrete Option Is Right for You?

At first glance, it may seem like precast and cast-in-place concrete are evenly matched…but this isn’t usually the case in practice. Despite the transportation-related benefits cast-in-place concrete brings to the table, precast concrete will almost always be the superior choice for your needs.

When you choose precast concrete for your construction project, you’ll enjoy benefits like:

  • Consistent quality. Since precast concrete is cured in a factory, this process is guaranteed to occur in an optimal environment. That can increase the overall quality of the concrete you use.
  • Fewer weather concerns. If you choose cast-in-place concrete, unexpected rain could temporarily put your casting process on hold. As you might expect, that won’t be an issue with precast concrete slabs.
  • Lower costs. Precast concrete relies on standard forms, allowing these products to be mass-produced. Because of that, you’ll have a chance to benefit from fixed pricing when buying precast concrete.
  • High versatility. Precast concrete is made to meet the needs of many different customers and applications. You can expect to find these products in many different finishes and colors.
  • Reduced on-site work. Cast-in-place concrete requires you to take care of concrete work at your construction site, adding to the complexity of your project as a whole. Fortunately, you can eliminate this issue by using precast concrete.
  • Specialized options. When your concrete is made in a factory setting, you can add upgrades that aren’t available with cast-in-place concrete. These upgrades can include high-strength concrete, specialized structural reinforcements, and integrated insulation.

The Environmental Benefits of Precast Concrete

These days, construction companies are increasingly aware of their work’s environmental impact. Because of that, you’ll want to do everything you can to keep your project eco-friendly—and thinking about how you use concrete in your projects is an excellent place to start. According to Princeton University’s Princeton Student Climate Initiative, the concrete industry is responsible for 8% of all global carbon emissions.

Since precast concrete products are made in controlled factory settings, minimal waste is created during the pouring process for this form of concrete. Meanwhile, poor management of water and energy use during cast-in-place concrete production can lead to significant carbon emissions.

Perhaps the biggest ecological argument in favor of cast-in-place concrete is the fact that these products don’t have to be hauled to the job site after they are produced. While this is worth keeping in mind, you’ll still need to weigh that fact against the many advantages presented by precast concrete.

Consider These Precast Concrete Use Cases

Even though cast-in-place concrete has its perks, it’s safe to say that precast concrete is the best choice for most professional projects. You’ll be able to use this type of concrete for:

  • Foundations. Precast concrete foundations can keep moisture out of residential and commercial basements while enhancing energy efficiency in these buildings.
  • Bridges. When you’re building a bridge, you’ll be able to use precast concrete for deck slabs, arches, beams, and other bridge sections.
  • Decorative elements. Thanks to precast concrete’s flexibility, this material is perfect for decorative elements like cladding, trim, and fireplace mantels.
  • Retaining walls. Precast concrete is also an excellent choice for retaining walls and sea walls.
  • Modular paving. No matter what color or texture you want from your modular paving, you can get your ideal look with precast concrete.
  • Wastewater management. Concrete is both durable and resistant to water, making it a natural choice for wastewater management structures like catch basins, curb inlets, and manhole covers.
  • Sound barriers. Since concrete is great at reflecting sound, precast concrete walls can help prevent loud noise near businesses.
  • Fences. Concrete fences are capable of looking like wood, brick, and many other materials while still delivering the benefits of precast concrete.

Don’t Settle for Less From Your Precast Concrete

Whether you’re gearing up for a commercial, residential, or industrial construction project, you’ll want to find a precast concrete supplier you can count on. At American Precast Concrete, we pride ourselves on being that company—and that means we’re willing to go the extra mile for the contractors, homeowners, and developers we work with.

If you choose American Precast Concrete for precast concrete fences and walls, you’ll get exceptional products that excel in terms of functionality and aesthetic appeal without breaking the bank. Make sure your construction plans go off without a hitch by getting your free estimate today!

Get a FREE Estimate!

800.691.7118