Precast concrete blocks are increasingly used in large construction projects for many key reasons. Precast concrete offers a reliable and high strength solution to storage issues, retaining wall problems, and other building projects. Precast concrete may be common in construction, but that does not mean its quality should be taken for granted. Not all precast concrete is equal. And quality matters a great deal – after all, human safety is often on the line.
Here we take a brief look at the structure of precast concrete and why it is important to use precast concrete that meets stringent quality standards.
What is Precast Concrete?
Concrete is one of the most widely used materials on the planet. It is basically made up of a mixture of cement, aggregates, and water. Water and cement make a paste, and the aggregates are bound together inside this paste. There are many different aggregates used in the concrete making process, which can be classed as primary, secondary, or recycled.
Concrete is used widely in the construction industry and is found in everything from roads to dams, drains to bridges. Concrete is naturally durable, strong, and resilient. It will likely be around for centuries to come.
Concrete is, however, extremely pliable when it has not been set. This means concrete is easily moulded and cast into different shapes. Often the concrete is shaped at the construction site, but it can also be precast. This means that the concrete is shaped in a factory and set before being transported to a construction site for use.
Precast Interlocking Concrete Blocks
Precast concrete comes in different forms, including interlocking concrete blocks. These blocks are used in flood defences, retaining walls, storage units, fire breaks, and erosion prevention structures, among other projects. Interlocking precast concrete blocks are also commonly seen in barriers protecting the exterior of buildings under construction or encircling temporary works.
The Importance of Precast Concrete Quality
Interlocking concrete blocks use strong concrete in order to be as durable and useful as possible. They are relied upon to provide protection and safe storage. But in order to provide this level of protection, the materials within the concrete blocks must be from a high-quality source.
Precast concrete used within construction projects must be able to withstand the pressure of water, human and vehicular use, and weather, depending on the project. It is very important that the concrete in the precast blocks is made from materials that will allow this to happen for a lifetime. Not only does the use of substandard materials endanger human safety, but it also has cost implications since the blocks, and the structure will need to be replaced more quickly than usual.
It is a good idea to look at the standard of products from a particular manufacturer alongside the price. Budget considerations are important, but it is also essential to construct walls and storage from concrete blocks that are guaranteed to last – and stay safe – far into the future.