To get the best results for every precast concrete project, precast producers must collaborate with architects and engineers early on in the project, during the design phase. This practice is called design assist, and it is the procurement method that guarantees every stakeholder in the construction chain works together to uncover high-value benefits. By providing invaluable, up-front engineering and constructability knowledge, design assist ensures the final product reflects project needs, budget, and timeline—ultimately reducing risk and adding value for the building owner.
Explore the multi-faceted design assist approach, so you can implement the process in your next project and uncover hidden value from the design phase through construction completion.
Any decision that traditionally occurs after the contract is awarded is instead discussed, coordinated, and executed early in the precast design process. When precast producers become part of the project team and contribute to initial plans, there is no shortage of positive outcomes:
Based on a review of preliminary design concepts—whether in the form of renderings, models, or 2D-3D views—the precaster can help determine the massing of volumes and the elements being considered for architectural precast concrete. The precaster would then be able to recommend key precast concrete design options and communicate benefits that would have a significant effect on the appearance, function, and cost of the project. In this phase, the precaster presents options for loadbearing or cladding elements. Either of these may also be supported by the structure or stacked to the foundation. These are options that have unique considerations for each project and are part of the decision-making process for structural framing selection, which may include structural steel, cast-in-place concrete, and precast concrete.
Design assist partners precast producers with the design team. This informs precast design decision-making, mitigating unnecessary costs and changes later in the building process. The precaster will also better understand other construction materials in the project and how they interface with precast.
By involving precast concrete producers in conceptual design, the team can expedite project development with engineering innovations and scheduling improvements while enhancing aesthetics and remaining cost-effective through project completion. The precaster makes suggestions to the designers and architects, capitalizing on all inherent benefits of precast, prestressed concrete and achieving maximum efficiency at the lowest cost.
Several elements need to be considered throughout the design assist process to maximize the precast building’s potential.
The key to your project’s success is working closely with a precast concrete producer to achieve the best results. The right precast partner should be selected based on technical expertise, unique project needs, and capabilities, including PCI Certification. During construction, the precast producer:
If you’re a designer looking to learn more about precast projects, browse the PCI Mid-Atlantic Solutions Center for helpful resources and reach out to PCI-MA for precast information, partnerships, and more.