Strong and growing stronger
The load-carrying capacity of precast concrete results from its own structural qualities, and is not dependent on the quality or strength of the surrounding backfill materials. The strength of precast concrete actually increases gradually over time, while other materials can deteriorate, be subject to creep and stress relaxation, and lose strength over time.
Get the job done fast
Precast concrete products arrive ready to install, which can save a lot of time over pour-in-place construction, especially the time waiting for concrete to cure. They also present a smaller footprint and eliminate the need to order reinforcing steel and concrete. There’s also no need for skilled labor to set up forms, place reinforcement, and pour concrete.
Easy install
While precast concrete is quite heavy, nearly all other competing materials also require machinery for handling and installation. Typically, speed of installation is more dependent on the time required for excavation rather than product handling and placement.
Lower lifetime costs
The installation of precast concrete is often quicker, easier and less costly than other alternatives. Combined with less ongoing maintenance and reduced likelihood of future problems, the result is a lower total cost over the life cycle of the project.
Staying power
Studies have shown that precast concrete products can provide a service life of more than 100 years, and for severe service conditions, additional design options can further extend its service life. This results in lower life-cycle costs for many projects. Precast concrete is also very resistant to most substances. While no material is completely immune to attack from aggressive chemicals, precast products can often be designed to resist corrosion in specific applications.
Higher quality concrete
Precast concrete products are typically produced in a quality-controlled environment, and thus exhibit low porosity and high quality and uniformity. Standard watertight sealants are specially formulated to adhere to precast concrete, making watertight multiple-seam precast concrete structures possible.
More than good looks
Precast concrete products are both functional and decorative. They can be formed into an endless array of sizes and configurations. Virtually any color and a wide variety of finishes (acid-etched, sandblasted, smooth-as-cast, exposed aggregate) make it possible to achieve the desired appearance.
The sustainable choice
Precast plants reuse formwork, reducing the construction waste that would otherwise be generated at a job site. The cementitious materials used in concrete often contain manufacturing byproducts such as fly ash and blast furnace slag that would otherwise be sent to a landfill. The steel used in concrete reinforcement is typically composed of 95% post-consumer recycled content