Precast concrete is a valuable and versatile material, especially for architects and designers who need an incredibly durable substance that adapts to their creative and constructional needs. There are plenty of ways this sturdy material can be put to use, but here are just a few ways it is ingeniously employed in different projects.
Precast Walls
Precast concrete insulated walls are a great option for the interior surfaces of houses located in areas with unpredictable weather conditions such as in the Southwest and Midwest regions of the United States. It is highly resistant to rain, snow, and debris and does not deteriorate as quickly as other materials when exposed to both extreme hot and cold climates. As such, precast concrete walls are valuable in Utah, Arizona, Minnesota, and Michigan, and many other regions. There are also a variety of ways to customize precast walls for homeowners in stylish contemporary homes, such as replicating the texture and color of stone or terracotta, and the intricate details of arches and decorative relief panels.
Office Buildings
As it is highly economical, easy to construct, and of high quality, precast concrete is a safe and popular choice for building commercial structures like hospitals, hotels, apartments, and contemporary homes.
Precast concrete walls can be produced off-site while it is on-site foundations being built. This allows for quick construction and early occupancy for busy workplaces. It is particularly favored by architects and designers whose projects might have special soundproof, fire-resistant, and aesthetic considerations.
Parking Garages
Many parking garages use precast structures for their stairs, columns, traffic barriers, and ramps. It is a cost-efficient material used for building large single or multi-level parking structures since it can be quickly constructed and highly resilient. As it can be quickly constructed and is incredibly resilient, it is ideal for other load-bearing structures. It eliminates the need for an additional structuring framing system, which means clients will also save on costs.
Signage Panels
Signage panels can be constructed from precast concrete because it is not only sturdy, but is also highly customizable. They can be tailored to suit aesthetic preferences and requirements, with varying colors, textures, and configurations to mix and match. Regardless of where these signage panels will be located, precast concrete is the best material of it because its structural integrity will hold up no matter how exposed it is to different weather conditions.
Bridges
Since the completion of the Walnut Bridge Memorial Bridge in 1950, there have been many other bridges made out of precast concrete that has stood the test of time. Beams, girders, deck slabs, arches, and more are made out of this material. The way precast concrete is made is particularly beneficial for bridge construction. As it can be produced in a workshop or offsite, it greatly reduces the issues faced on challenging construction sites.
The architectural possibilities are endless with precast concrete, so it should come as no surprise that many structures are made from it. Go ahead and discover what this material can do.
