Concrete that has been cast anywhere other than where it would be used is known as precast concrete. The majority of precast items are wet-cast in a factory, but others, such as tilt-up panels, are cast on-site. There are many reasons to precast, most of which are benefits, which we’ll discuss, but the most significant disadvantage to precasting is that the resulting concrete object must be moved. Since concrete is heavy, 150 pounds per cubic foot on average, concrete components don’t have to be very large until moving them becomes impractical. Some decorative builders, such as those who precast concrete countertops, push the limits of what’s too large or heavy to move, creating special rigs to transport huge concrete parts. In some instances, such as with concrete slabs and floors, it’s simply easier to cast the concrete in place because the precast benefits are outweighed by convenience.
Types of Precast Concrete
Until you plan a precast structure, you need to understand the different types of components used. This will aid in the timely and accurate completion of a project.
· Precast Slab
Precast slabs are the most commonly used part on construction sites since they are suitable for any design that meets the requirements. Furthermore, it is available in a variety of styles to meet the needs of a construction project. Hollow-core units, double-tee units, solid core slabs, and bi-axial voided slabs are some of them, and they all help achieve further advantages. By minimizing dead weight, a hollow core slab provides full structural performance. Double-tee units are built mainly for flooring and are lighter in weight. At the same time, depending on the period, the depth of units can differ. A solid core slab is a prefabricated slab that resembles a solid slab and can fulfill critical requirements during the construction process. Biaxial voided slabs are the most current floor structure that is more efficient than conventional floor structures.
· Precast Walls
A precast wall is a great way to give a frame structure that can hold vertical loads some stability. PrecastMost construction firms use precast walls and floor slabs to create a complete building. Precast walls are an excellent choice for increasing a building’s stability and demonstrating how to achieve the best performance. The four types of precast walls available for buildings are curtain walls, load-bearing wall units, shear walls, and shape work for cast-in-place concrete, enabling us to maintain a better setting.
· Precast Beam
A precast beam is typically used as a ledge for other precast flooring forms, allowing for the best possible performance. Tee beams, beam shells, L-beams, U-beams, and rectangular beams are a few examples.
· Precast Column
Precast columns are widely used to stabilize beams which can vary in size and form depending on the project. It is typically rectangular or circular in shape in a segment, which allows the construction phase to be planned accordingly.
Benefits of Precast Concrete Construction
Traditional architecture is disappearing these days due to advances in the construction industry, and we can opt for precast applications to reap a variety of benefits.
· Enhances the Appearance of a Structure
Precast concrete makes creative approaches to improving the aesthetics of a building possible. In reality, it offers methods for designing a structure with various options that can improve a building’s overall appearance and help it gain a good reputation. Another benefit is that it contributes significantly to the increase in property prices during the resale process.
· Ensures that the Structure of the Building is Efficient and Safe
Precast concrete materials help buildings to withstand loads more effectively, eliminating the need for additional columns. They also have options for lowering floor depths by up to four inches, allowing for heights of up to 80 stories. Furthermore, they can minimize vibration in buildings when transporting them to a specific location. Large-scale facilities, such as concert halls, would greatly benefit from them because they minimize structural damage.
· Ensures the Building’s Safety
Environmental impacts and climatic changes can threaten buildings, affecting their quality to a large extent. Preston the other hand, Precast structures are an excellent option for maintaining high building safety and obtaining peace of mind from break-ins and break-outs. Precast concrete adds a layer of security to a structure, preventing collateral damage and other problems. It can also withstand rain, wind, extreme cold, and extreme heat to keep problems minimum. The precast materials are extremely fire resistant, which means no damage can occur.