When you are looking at a large-scale project, there are many options for building materials – each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Precast concrete is gaining footing as a desirable option for developers and contractors.
The following are 12 reasons you should pick prefab concrete walls for your next project:
Lightweight and Efficient
Precast concrete is designed to better bear loads. This reduces the need for additional support in the building, which, in turn, reduces the side of the foundation and support. Even with such lightweight construction, precast concrete’s strength is still superior to other construction materials. Buildings built with precast concrete can reach up to 80 stories. On average precast concrete reduces the floor depths by up to four inches. This savings in material would equal the cost to build two extra stories on a 60-story building.
Easy to Make and Install
Because everything is made in a facility and shipped to the project location, it is all very easy for the construction company to install. All they have to do is construct the panels. No forms or rebar – the precast concrete company takes care of all that.
Weather Resistant
Precast concrete performs better than other building materials during multiple freeze-thaw cycles. Concrete is not impacted by flooding, high winds, or heavy rains – meaning it will last a long time no matter how insane your weather gets.
Thermally Efficient
Precast concrete is dense, and, therefore, thermally efficient. When coupled with insulation that can be added during the concrete casting, this equals a significant reduction to heating and cooling costs.
Fireproof
Precast concrete will not catch fire or burn. Fires won’t easily spread in a precast concrete building. Because the precast concrete wall panels themselves don’t burn, recovery from a fire is relatively quick and painless.
Rust and Chemical Resistant
Precast concrete is commonly used in areas that are prone to fuel and oil spills, such as overpasses. For good reason – precast concrete is one of the few materials that will not lose its integrity after exposure to most chemical spills. Because the structural elements are embedded in the precast concrete, and due to the superior concrete that won’t easily chip or wear, precast concrete walls are highly resistant to rust.
Highly Durable
Because precast concrete is produced in a facility with ideal curing conditions, the strength is unmatched. This makes it extremely durable and able to handle the wear and tear.
Reduces Noise Pollution
Again, concrete is dense, and this makes it a great sound barrier. Hotel guests can enjoy a quiet night’s sleep, and office workers won’t be distracted by their neighbor’s offices.
Wi-Fi Compatible
No one wants their Wi-Fi to not work in their new building. This is one of the main reasons offices, schools, and homes have been turning to precast concrete. Compared to other construction materials, concrete doesn’t block radio signals or Wi-Fi at all.
Pest Resistant
Termites, rats, and other pests cannot eat their way through concrete – keeping your building and its contents safe.
Safer
Just as concrete can keep animals and pests out, it can also keep you and your building safer from break-ins or crazy weather like tornados.
Customizable
Precast concrete can be made with multiple inclusions built-in, such as plumbing, communication lines, windows, utility panels. These are all embedded during the casting, making for seamless integration and beautiful building. They can also be made with different design elements – specific colors can be added right to the concrete or decorative elements included in the mold.
If you are ready to get all these benefits of precast concrete, contact American Precast Concrete, Inc, for a quote on your next project.