Designing with Precast Concrete

Full Description

The aesthetic options available with architectural precast concrete components, especially wall panels, are considerable. They can mimic a wide variety of other masonry alternatives, including brick and stone, providing many options for duplicating existing architectural styles used with surrounding buildings. This holds true whether the styles are historic or contemporary. In many cases, architectural finishes also can be provided for structural precast components, combining functions and saving material cost and construction time.

Precast components also mesh well with other materials, including curtain walls, and they can accommodate any required penetrations. Special considerations will aid the installation of mechanical systems and vapor barriers, all of which can be accommodated easily. Precast concrete’s economy aids owners and designers in meeting their budgetary needs and helps make funds available that are typically needed for design consideration for other key elements.

Its economy not only reduces the immediate in-ground cost but also continues to save operating expenses over the life of the building through extended durability and lower maintenance costs. Precast concrete can also aid in meeting sustainability goals set by the owner, including certification standards set by the Leadership in Energy & Environmental Design (LEED) program.