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BFI specializies in Concrete Expert Witness Litigation and Support, Including Concrete Testing, Concrete Moisture Consulting and Petrographic Analysis.
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The Benefits of Precast Concrete
Prior to precast concrete being used, concrete structure walls were not made until the foundation of the building was complete. Presently, the foundation and walls of a structure can be made at the same time. This saves large amounts of time and money, which makes construction more effective.
Therefore since precast concrete comes to a job site ready made, weather less effect on the time it takes to complete the job. When concrete is formed on the job site, rain and high levels of moisture in the air can severely affect when the concrete could be poured, as well as how long it would take to cure. In some cases air temperature at the time of the pour can contribute to concrete defect.
Precast Concrete Characteristics
Precast concrete contributes to increased fire resistance, extremely smooth surfaces, and increase sound absorption performance. These are some of the characteristics which creates a popularity among builders and developers.
Precast Concrete is predominantly viewed as a commercial and/or industrial product. More recently precast concrete is being used in the construction of condominiums, apartments and some single family homes. Precast concrete structures tend to receive lower insurance premiums due to their durability and fire resistance ability.
Precast Production
Precast concrete many times is produced indoors to assure the concrete can cure in an ideal environment. Ideal conditions help control the environment so the best product is produced.
Precast concrete is set in a form which is used to shape the concrete that is poured into it. The form is first lubricated so the concrete is easily removed. The poured concrete is allowed to mostly cure, and then removed. By the time the precast concrete reaches the job site, it's completely cured.
Precast Concrete Forms
A precast concrete form comes in a standard form or can be highly customized. There are many standard forms for many different applications, but each is made to be reproduced many times. Standard forms are often used in buildings, bridges, walls, and other structures because they are more affordable; the same form can be used to produce multiple pieces, which, in turn, can be used to build multiple structures of the same variety.
A custom precast concrete form is made for a specific job and is rarely used again on another structure. While the form is still used to make multiple pieces, the pieces are generally only good for use on the structture they were made for. Custom forms are often used for architecture which is designed to look or perform uniquely from others of the same kind.
BFI Staff Writer ~
An example of the beauty of a precast concrete wall. Notice the smoothness of the wall.