Precast concrete is a construction product produced by casting concrete in a reusable mold for ‘form.’ The form is then held in a controlled environment, aesthetically finished, transported to the construction site, and laid onto a building or structure. Used for both exterior and interior walls, precast concrete requires maintenance to maintain the original integrity. As the number one team for concrete sealing in MA, the experts at Abbot Building Restoration are taking this moment to explain everything you need to know when dealing with precast concrete.
What is precast concrete?
Precast concrete is commonly referred to as either ‘architectural precast’ or ‘gray precast.’ Used in building construction applications, architectural precast employs a variety of fine aggregate, color additives, and specialty enhancements in the mixture to create an aesthetically pleasing product. On the other hand, gray precast is used in many foundational applications such as bridge girders, sewer pipes, utility hole covers, and buried tanks.
The benefits.
One of the most significant benefits of producing concrete within a controlled environment is that it can be closely monitored. Thus, precast concrete is allowed to properly cure under strict guidelines for quality and workmanship. Unlike on-site casting, precast production is performed on the ground level that also increases safety standards. Further, there is more control over material quality.
While it may seem this option would be more costly, precast production provides the customer a more affordable solution than on-site casting. Most precast molds can be reused hundreds of times before replacement is needed. By contrast, standard cast-in-place concrete is poured into site-specific forms and cured on-site per individual specifications.
Maintaining structural integrity.
Like anything, precast concrete requires maintenance to maintain the original strength and integrity. Regardless of the method used to create the form, concrete is porous. Thus, concrete sealing becomes an imperative task in every situation. Providing resistance against abrasion, chemical reaction, discoloration, staining, and the freeze/thaw cycle, concrete sealing creates a bond from within. This bond protects against moisture penetration.
Superior MA Concrete Sealing to Protect Your Structure
When it comes to MA concrete sealing and restoration, let the experienced professionals at Abbot Building Restoration help. With decades of expertise, our team is successfully keeping Boston’s concrete structures looking their best!
Contact Abbot Building Restoration today to learn more (617) 445-0274.
