It’s no secret the construction industry is facing major challenges such as labor and material shortages. So, it’s a great sign when a new project rolls in. This likely means you have the capacity to take on new business and complete existing projects, which is a luxury not all construction managers have in this economy.
Taking on new business is the first obstacle. Next comes the challenges all construction workers see with new projects—total project cost, team performance and timeliness, and logistics. Only 25% of projects came within 10% of the original deadline in the past three years, while only 31% came within 10% of the budget. And, as a result of logistical issues, professionals in construction feel a 50% or more impact on productivity.1
Precast concrete is quickly becoming the building material of choice to overcome these challenges and achieve and exceed customer expectations. Let’s discuss the benefits of a precast concrete construction project.
Accelerated Construction
When it comes to timeliness, there’s no better option than precast construction. Precast concrete is manufactured off-site in a quality-controlled environment. After manufacturing, the structural elements are delivered to the job site just in time. As opposed to pouring cast-in-place concrete, laying bricks, or building wood or steel frames, precast concrete minimizes time spent on site, accelerates installation, and minimizes disruption to the surrounding community.
Prefabrication also enables construction in all weather conditions. Since it’s poured in a factory environment, precast concrete panels and elements are manufactured in rain or shine and winter or summer. The construction industry loses billions of dollars on delays and failures caused by bad weather. It’s impossible to pour concrete in freezing temperatures, and storms can often damage job sites.2 Precast construction helps meet critical deadlines and save money.
Aesthetic & Structural Versatility
Precast concrete empowers designers to create unique concepts and execute them flawlessly. Any façade treatment is possible, from pigmentation to sandblasting, etching, brick and stone, and more. Precast maximizes design freedom, so teams can build structures that blend seamlessly with the surroundings or stand out.
More importantly, precast concrete offers construction professionals the structural versatility needed to meet high-performance requirements such as soundproofing, thermal efficiency, and chemical and rust resistance. Precast concrete buildings are inherently resilient, providing strength and durability through harsh weather, storms, fires, and decades of service.
Safety & Sustainability
Precast concrete construction is safer than other building options. For example, fewer materials and people are needed on site, which means fewer hazards associated with overcrowding and disorganization. Precast concrete supports enhanced logistics, controlling the procurement and transport of structural elements and positioning construction workers exactly where and when they’re needed.
To meet modern LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) trends and requirements, construction workers must first choose a green building material. Precast concrete is factory-made with exact-batching technologies, so there’s little construction waste and on-site debris. The thermal mass of concrete also shifts peak heating and cooling loads in structures for optimal energy efficiency. Lastly, due to extended lifespans and superior durability, precast structures involve less maintenance and upkeep over time.
Next-Level Construction with Precast Concrete Buildings
If you’re looking to overcome challenges in construction—from supply chain issues and shortages to on-site productivity and performance—it’s time to consider a building material that ticks all the boxes. Precast concrete is the material of choice when it comes to efficiency, versatility, and long-term safety and sustainability. Our website has endless resources for professionals in construction to utilize to build their arsenal of knowledge. Learn more about how you can optimize your next build.
