When you are using concrete in the field, you have the choice of two basic types. These are:
- Standard
- Precast
While both are the same material – concrete, their state differs. Standard concrete requires preparation in situ; precast is ready for use. This is one of the reasons why many Alabama companies prefer precast concrete products.
Advantages of Precast Concrete
This is the major reason why many in construction prefer to work with precast concrete. In Alabama, construction companies regard the following as the most common reasons they like to work with this material.
- The process – it takes place entirely within a monitored and stable environment- ensures quality control
- The results of the in-factory process can be more durable and increase the longevity of standard concrete
- The result is not dependent on such variable factors as the weather
- Repeatability is never an issue. Precast concrete products are replicas
- Installation requires less labor. Moreover, the workers need not possesses specialized skills to work with precast concrete
- Installation is immediate or, at least, requires less time spent waiting for the concrete to cure and obtain the required strength, etc.
- Quantity ensures discounts
For these basic reasons, companies working on site often prefer to use precast concrete. This in fact of the major disadvantage – the weight of many of these items can cause issues for moving and placement.
Applications for Precast Concrete Products
Precast concrete is not without its admirers. It is popular in a variety of functional and architectural applications. In the construction industry, precast concrete is in constant demand for such projects and structures as:
- Architectural elements
- Architectural panels
- Bridge beams
- Countertops
- Culverts
- Double Ts
- Fences
- Fireplace surrounds
- Foundation walls
- Hollow-core slabs
- Paving stones
- Pipes
- Pool coping
- Retaining walls
- Septic tanks/manholes
- Statuary
- Steps
- Structures – commercial and industrial buildings
- Traffic barriers
From paving stones to apartment buildings, Alabama construction companies and architects embrace the possibilities that precast concrete products offer.