What are the benefits of precast concrete?

Precast concrete offers many advantages compared with using poured concrete on-site. Probably the most significant is the amount of time that can be saved in a construction project. It also offers all the benefits of being produced in a factory-controlled environment to ensure the products are of the highest standards.

Let’s take a look at some of the benefits….

Quality assurance

Every phase of precast concrete production, from the mixing of components to mould preparation, to subsequent checks to ensure the product meets specifications, undergoes a rigorous inspection. The concrete is manufactured in a factory-controlled environment, which facilitates the creation of highly consistent and repeatable units. This leads to fewer problems on-site during the installation process.

Design flexibility

Precast concrete offers architects and specifiers the ability to bring their designs to life without the constraints often associated with traditional construction materials. Unique moulds can be created to accommodate a wide diversity of shapes and sizes. This flexibility is further enhanced by the wide range of colors and finishes precast concrete can be produced in, enabling designs that can either stand out as modern and innovative or blend in seamlessly with existing structures.

Speed of construction

One of the most important benefits of precast concrete in construction projects is its ability to save significant time and budget at the installation stage on-site, primarily by separating production from on-site logistics. This results in a more streamlined construction process.

Precast concrete elements are manufactured in a controlled factory setting off-site. This means that while the construction site is being prepared, the concrete components are already being produced. This parallel processing significantly reduces overall project timelines.

Health and safety benefits

Often, the use of precast concrete removes the need for temporary works. By replacing the need to use wet concrete on-site the risks of burns for labour working in that environment are signifuicantly reduced.

Most sites will want to reduce the amount of time staff have to spend working at heights. The construction of lift shafts, for example, is one way in which the use of precast units to build the shaft can greatly help towards this.

Less weather dependent

As precast concrete is produced in a factory-controlled environment, delays caused by inclement weather such as cold and strong winds, are significantly reduced, ensuring just-in-time delivery. This not only keeps the project on schedule but also results in a cleaner and safer construction site. At Poundfield Precast we have covered sheds and heated beds, which means we can continue to produce precast units whatever the weather.

Less wastage

With no on-site formwork, not only is the amount of labour significantly reduced, but also there is far less wastage of both concrete and raw materials as with poured concrete there is typically a risk of leaking shuttering. With precast concrete, the manufacturing process can be automated and controlled at all stages of its production. Once the units have been produced the steel moulds can be reused or recycled rather than being thrown away.

Precast concrete from Poundfield Precast

Whether you are looking for retaining walls, beam and block flooring or have a specific requirement which needs a bespoke solution, Poundfield Precast has a precast solution for all your projects. With our bespoke department, high quality precast concrete can be made to your exact specifications, no matter what the size of your project.

For further information please contact our team by emailing [email protected] or by telephoning 01449 723150.