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Architectural Precast Concrete
Precast concrete products are reinforced concrete and can be
used both indoors and outdoors. Concrete is a mix of cement,
sand and aggregate. Cement is made from a natural substance
- limestone that is acquired from the earth - so precast concrete
is a totally non-toxic product and environmentally safe. Its
extreme durability and low cost make them a good choice for
long term outdoor use. Precast concrete's thermal properties
can be exploited in low-energy buildings.
Integral color can be achieved by adding iron oxide pigments
to the concrete during manufacturing. WDI offers 24 standard
concrete design colors and we can custom make any color to client
specifications and taste. Precast concrete finishes available
include acid-etched, smooth, coarse, grit, sand blasted, rubbed
or polished. Mixes designed to resemble natural stone are our
specialty.
Architects love to design buildings with design elements such
as precast concrete window panels and sills, beams, wall panel
details, decorative concrete blocks, precast concrete moldings,
walls, wall systems and retaining walls. Architectural precast
concrete provides architects with an exciting medium when designing
facades for a wide range of buildings, from healthcare facilities
to shopping malls, commercial office buildings to sports stadiums.
Concrete products are heavy at 140+ pounds per cubic foot. All
products must be offloaded and moved to their final location
by hand or by forklift. Structural concrete columns are typically
set by crane. For lighter alternatives satisfying the needs
of your specific application see GFRC,
GFRG, FRP
and Forton MG.
Precast concrete panels are cast face-downwards in purpose-built
moulds, usually made of either timber or fiber glass. A steel
reinforcement cage is placed in the mould prior to the concrete
being poured. Timber moulds can be easily adjusted so that maximum
use can be made of each basic mould, further contributing to
cost efficiencies.
By inserting mats or rods in the base of the mould different
designs and effects can be created - from false joints to intricate
leaf patterns. Increasingly, maximum use of off-site fabrication
is being made by fixing other elements, from insulation to entire
windows, during manufacture of precast panels.
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