You may have heard that precast concrete is incredibly durable and strong, it’s relatively cheap to install and maintain, and it’s a high-quality option for fences and walls. Even though it’s been around for a while, you might still have questions. Here are six of the most common questions about precast concrete and the answers to those questions…
1. What is the process for making precast concrete?
Precast concrete is made inside a facility using metal or plastic molds. If reinforcement is needed to make the concrete stronger, it’s added before the concrete is poured into the molds. The actual pouring process is very similar to onsite concrete. Because precast concrete is made indoors, the temperature and other environmental factors can be regulated – something that is impossible when doing onsite concrete. This makes for a stronger, more durable product. After the curing time, the concrete parts are unmolded and shipped to the project site where they are assembled.
2. How is installing precast concrete fences different than other methods?
Because so much of the work is done by the precast concrete manufacturing company before the pieces get to the project site, it is much easier and quicker than other fences, like brick, wood, and onsite concrete fences. Usually, the area will need to be prepped by placing gravel or stone, and a concrete slab foundation poured. Support posts will need to be dug or drilled. After that, it’s a simple matter of connecting the fence pieces together and securing them to the support.
3. What is maintenance like for a precast concrete wall?
This is the beauty of precast concrete walls – they require very little maintenance. A quick regular wash with your hose will be the bulk of the work. Occasionally, they will need a deep clean if you have paint or oil spills. They don’t typically need painting, oiling, resealing, or rust removals like a wood or brick fence. You should also regularly inspect your wall. Damage to the wall should be identified and fixed quickly before it has a chance to get worse.
4. How well will a precast concrete wall stand up to the elements?
Concrete is not susceptible to dry rot and other common molds. Its strength and durability make it perfect for places with high wind and extreme weather. It doesn’t burn. Insects like termites won’t touch it. It will be standing strong for years, even in extreme weather.
5. Can precast concrete look good?
Concrete fences do not have to look like a prison wall. To make your precast concrete more aesthetically pleasing, pigment is often added to the mixture to produce beautiful colors. Aggregate is also often added to give the concrete wall or fence more texture and customize it fit the desired look. Using molds to customize your concrete, decorative shapes can also be added or to make your concrete resemble brick, wood, or stone.
6. What would you use precast concrete for?
Precast concrete can be used as:
- Privacy walls
- Containment for animals and kids
- Boundaries for your property
- Windbreak
- Retaining walls
- Security fences
- Noise barriers
Contact American Precast Concrete, Inc. to get started on your customized precast concrete wall or fence. We will also answer any additional questions you may have about making choosing precast walls or fences.