The construction industry is always looking for new ways to improve techniques and processes. By reducing the time it takes to finish jobs and the costs involved, firms can complete projects faster and with a greater degree of efficiency.
The use of precast concrete for retaining walls is becoming increasingly popular. Let’s take a look at why this is. Read on to find out more.
What is Precast Concrete?
Traditionally, concrete would be prepared, mixed and processed on construction sites as and when it was needed. With the advent of precast concrete, this approach is rapidly becoming a thing of the past.
Precast concrete is prepared, processed and cast at an off-site location, often using reusable moulds. Generally, precast concrete is prepared in dedicated factories and warehouse spaces, where it can be shaped in various different ways before being delivered out to construction sites.
Now that we know what precast concrete is, let’s take a look at some of the benefits of using it for precast retaining walls.
Rapid Installation
Time is money in the construction industry. Delays can be extremely disruptive, and going over schedules can have severe financial implications.
Mixing and setting concrete for retaining walls on site can be fraught with potential issues. These can completely derail a construction project and can be difficult to recover from.
By using precast concrete for retaining walls, the risk of such issues occurring are reduced significantly. As they are produced in controlled environments, precast concrete retaining walls will fit perfectly and can be installed rapidly once they have been delivered to the site.
Durability
Retaining walls are designed to hold back materials such as soil or water. As a result, they must be extremely strong and durable. If they were to break or degrade, there could be serious consequences for the property in question.
Concrete as a material is incredibly tough. Even concrete made thousands of years ago during the Roman Empire is still in a good condition today.
Precast concrete can be stronger and more durable than concrete that has been prepared on site. During the production process, designers can reinforce precast concrete and ensure it has set properly to offer as much strength as possible. This makes it perfect for use in retaining walls.
Affordability
Construction projects can be expensive. If managers are not careful, budgets can quickly spiral out of control.
You may assume that preparing concrete on site is cheaper than using precast concrete, but that isn’t the case. While there will be a cost involved for ordering precast concrete and having the materials, this will be offset by the fact sites will not need equipment and staff to mix and prepare concrete there.
Given precasts concrete improved durability, it will also last much longer. This means it is unlikely to need to be replaced for many years to come.
Conclusion
Precast concrete is an option all construction firms should consider when it comes to retaining walls. It can offer a number of fantastic benefits; it can be installed rapidly, is more durable and more affordable when compared to the traditional concrete approach.
