Why Concrete Septic Tanks Are Superior to Plastic Alternatives
Choosing the right septic tank is crucial for ensuring safe and effective waste management on your property. Two popular materials dominate the market: concrete and plastic. While both options can serve your home or business, the material you select has long-term implications for durability, environmental impact, and costs. In this blog, we’ll explore why concrete septic tanks are superior to plastic alternatives, covering everything from their structural strength to overall value.
Durability and Strength of Concrete Septic Tanks
Withstanding Ground Pressure
Concrete septic tanks are known for their robust construction. The inherent weight and solidity of concrete help these tanks withstand ground pressure, soil shifts, and the natural freeze-thaw cycles experienced in many climates. This resilience contrasts sharply with plastic tanks, which can warp or collapse if the surrounding soil settles unevenly or if groundwater levels fluctuate significantly.
Resistance to Cracking
Plastic tanks are more prone to stress cracking and deformations—especially when exposed to extreme temperatures or sudden impacts. Concrete, on the other hand, can better resist cracking because it’s a rigid, reinforced structure. Properly manufactured and installed concrete tanks distribute stress more evenly, resulting in fewer structural vulnerabilities over time.
Longevity
One of the standout reasons why concrete septic tanks are better than plastic is their impressive lifespan. High-quality concrete tanks can last for decades—often outlasting the property’s ownership. In contrast, plastic tanks may degrade under UV exposure (if any part is above ground), chemical reactions, or ground movement, potentially cutting short their operational life.
Environmental Benefits of Concrete
Sustainability of Materials
Concrete production can incorporate recycled materials such as fly ash and slag, making it more sustainable than many people realise. Plus, unlike plastic, which is petroleum-based and may leach chemicals over time, concrete is an inert material that doesn’t release harmful substances into the surrounding soil or groundwater.
Less Prone to Damage
Because concrete septic tanks are less susceptible to cracks and punctures, they reduce the risk of leaks that can harm local ecosystems. A compromised plastic tank might release contaminants, leading to soil and water pollution. Concrete’s inherent sturdiness helps maintain a closed, secure environment for waste processing.
Lower Environmental Impact Over Time
The robustness of concrete tanks also means fewer repairs or replacements, translating to lower material consumption throughout the tank’s life. When you consider the long-term environmental footprint, concrete often comes out on top, especially in regions with fluctuating ground conditions or harsh climates.
Maintenance and Repair Needs
Minimal Upkeep
Concrete tanks generally require less frequent maintenance than their plastic counterparts. Because they’re built to withstand external pressures and internal load changes, the chance of developing leaks or structural damage is significantly lower.
Plastic’s Vulnerabilities
Plastic septic tanks can suffer from several issues:
- Bulging or Warping: Ground pressure or improper backfill can deform the tank, leading to alignment issues and eventual leaks.
- Cracking from Impact: Even minor impacts during installation or from heavy machinery passing overhead can cause damage.
- Higher Risk of Floating: In high water table areas, a lightweight plastic tank can shift or float if not anchored properly.
All these vulnerabilities mean plastic tanks often require more attention and potential repair work over their lifespan.
Cost and Long-Term Value
Higher Initial Cost of Concrete
It’s true that concrete septic tanks generally come with a higher upfront cost compared to plastic. The manufacturing process is more involved, and transportation can be pricier due to the tank’s weight. However, this initial investment is balanced by the tank’s durability.
Longevity Equals Savings
Because concrete tanks last for decades with minimal maintenance, the lifetime cost can be significantly lower than plastic tanks, which may need repairs or replacements sooner. Over the long haul, the reliability and reduced upkeep of concrete often translate into substantial savings—both financially and environmentally.
Boosting Property Value
A durable, well-maintained septic system can also enhance your property’s resale appeal. Potential buyers may see the presence of a concrete septic tank as an asset, knowing it’s less likely to fail and more likely to meet local regulations for waste management.
When evaluating are concrete septic tanks better than plastic, the answer often points to concrete as the superior choice for most properties. Its durability, resistance to cracking, and minimal maintenance requirements ensure a long-lasting waste management solution. Add in the environmental benefits—like reduced risk of leaks and chemical leaching—and it’s clear why more homeowners, businesses, and municipalities turn to concrete.
While the initial investment may be higher, concrete septic tanks deliver greater reliability and a lower total cost of ownership over time. For anyone seeking a dependable, eco-friendly, and cost-effective waste management system, concrete stands out as the premium option.
- Published in Precast Concrete
Are Precast Concrete Walls Worth the Investment?
Precast concrete walls are often associated with premium quality and robust performance, making them a go-to choice in commercial, industrial, and even residential projects. Unlike cast-in-place concrete, precast elements are manufactured in controlled environments, ensuring consistent quality and faster on-site installation. However, many potential buyers wonder: are precast concrete walls expensive, and do they justify the higher initial costs?
In this guide, we’ll break down the factors that influence the cost of precast concrete walls, compare them to other wall materials, and explore how their long-term value often compensates for the upfront price. By evaluating both immediate and extended benefits, you can determine if precast is the right solution for your building or property needs.
Factors Influencing Cost
1. Customisation and Complexity
Design and Shape
- Precast panels can be customised in terms of texture, pattern, or size. Specialized designs or intricate finishes naturally drive up manufacturing costs.
- Complex architectural features require more detailed moulds and extended production time, which can add to the final price tag.
Panel Thickness and Reinforcement
- Thicker panels or those with heavy steel reinforcement (like double cages) cost more to produce. These might be necessary for walls that support significant loads or in high-security applications.
2. Installation Requirements
Transport and Handling
- Precast elements are delivered fully formed, so shipping large, heavy panels can incur higher transport fees.
- A crane or specialised equipment is often required to unload and position each panel accurately.
Site Preparation
- The site must be ready to accommodate a rapid install. Although labour hours on-site can be less than cast-in-place methods, you might pay more upfront for the necessary machinery and skilled operators.
3. Material Quality
Type of Concrete Mix
- High-grade concrete with additives or fibres might cost more but offers better durability and resistance to cracking.
- Some suppliers offer eco-friendly or lightweight mixes, which may further affect pricing.
Finishing Options
- Decorative surface treatments (e.g., acid-etched, polished, or coloured concrete) enhance aesthetics but add manufacturing steps.
- Special coatings or sealants can protect against moisture and staining, boosting longevity.
Comparing Precast Walls with Other Materials
While precast concrete walls can be pricier than alternatives (like masonry blocks or timber framing), they often deliver notable advantages:
- Masonry Blocks
- Pros: Lower upfront cost, widely available.
- Cons: Installation is labour-intensive, potential for inconsistent mortar joints, lower structural performance in certain high-load or seismic conditions.
- Timber Framing
- Pros: Less weight, simpler tools needed for construction.
- Cons: Susceptible to rot, termites, and requires ongoing maintenance or treatment.
- Cast-in-Place Concrete
- Pros: Familiar method, effective for large monolithic pours.
- Cons: Dependent on weather conditions, requires formwork setup and more on-site labour, which can extend construction timelines.
When measured across lifespan, strength, and maintenance, precast walls often emerge as a cost-effective choice over the life cycle of a building.
Long-Term Value of Precast Concrete Walls
1. Durability and Strength
- Extended Lifespan: Properly manufactured precast can last decades with minimal upkeep, thanks to consistent curing conditions in the factory.
- Resilience: Precast panels often boast impressive load-bearing capacity and are resistant to fire, rot, and pests.
2. Maintenance Savings
- Minimal Repairs: Precast’s uniform density and controlled curing reduce the risk of cracks.
- Less Frequent Replacement: Because panels are robust, you likely won’t face major repairs or replacements for many years.
3. Energy Efficiency
- Thermal Mass: Concrete helps regulate indoor temperatures, leading to potential energy savings in heating or cooling.
- Insulation Integrations: Modern precast can incorporate insulation layers within the panel, boosting R-values without extra installations.
4. Project Speed and Reduced Labour
- Faster Construction: Panels arrive on-site ready to install, minimising delays tied to weather or lengthy cure times.
- Lower Labour Costs Long-Term: Quick installation cuts workforce needs, although initial crane hire and skilled labour might be higher for a short period.
So, are precast concrete walls expensive? They can indeed have a higher upfront cost compared to some alternatives. However, factors like rapid installation, long lifespan, reduced maintenance, and exceptional structural integrity often justify that initial investment. When you evaluate the total life-cycle cost, precast walls frequently deliver robust value—particularly in settings where durability, appearance, and swift project completion matter most.
If you’re deciding whether precast is right for your project, consider its customisation potential, resilience, and energy efficiency. By factoring in both immediate budget constraints and the extended benefits of less maintenance and longer service life, you can make a confident choice that suits your property for years to come.
- Published in Precast Concrete
The Different Types of Stormwater Drainage Systems and Essential Precast Concrete Components
When heavy rains hit or snow melts, excess water needs a place to go. That’s where stormwater drainage systems come in—collecting and channeling runoff away from roads, buildings, and other vulnerable areas. Proper stormwater management is essential to prevent floods, minimise erosion, and protect both urban and rural infrastructure. Without an effective drainage solution, standing water can damage roads, overwhelm sewers, and even contaminate local water supplies.
In this guide, we’ll explore what a stormwater drainage system entails, focusing on different types—like open channels, pipe networks, box culverts, and stormwater pits. We’ll also highlight how precast concrete components have become indispensable in building dependable, long-lasting drainage solutions.
Types of Stormwater Drainage Systems
1. Open Channel Systems
What Are They?
Open channels are visible, above-ground pathways—such as ditches or artificially lined channels—that guide runoff from one area to another. Unlike pipes, these channels are open to the atmosphere, making them easier to inspect and maintain.
Benefits:
- High Flow Capacity: Large open channels can handle substantial volumes of water, especially when lined with durable materials like precast concrete.
- Visual Inspection: Because they’re uncovered, it’s straightforward to identify blockages or sediment buildup.
How Precast Concrete Fits:
- Long-Lasting Channel Liners: Precast concrete sections can form robust channel walls, reducing erosion and the risk of collapse.
- Customisable Dimensions: Factories can produce channel components in various widths and depths, matching project flow requirements precisely.
2. Pipe Drainage Systems
What Are They?
Pipe drainage systems are underground networks that transport stormwater through a series of connected tubes. This is one of the most common drainage methods in urban settings, keeping roads clear and preventing pooling on streets.
Benefits:
- Space-Efficient: Burying pipes below ground preserves surface land for roads, buildings, and landscaping.
- Protected Flow: With no exposure to the elements, there’s less risk of pollution, debris, or freezing issues under normal conditions.
How Precast Concrete Fits:
- Concrete Pipes: Precast concrete pipes boast excellent strength and long lifespans, often exceeding those of alternative materials like plastic or steel.
- Minimal Leakage: Well-made concrete joints reduce infiltration and exfiltration, helping maintain water purity and structural integrity.
3. Box Culverts
What Are They?
A box culvert is a rectangular or square-shaped drainage structure, typically large enough to accommodate high-flow scenarios. It’s commonly used under roads, railways, or other embankments where water—or even occasional vehicular traffic—must pass through.
Benefits:
- Load-Bearing Strength: Box culverts can support heavy traffic above, making them ideal for highways or railway crossings.
- High Flow Rates: Their wide, box-shaped interior can handle flood conditions, carrying significant volumes of stormwater or river overflow.
How Precast Concrete Fits:
- Precast Box Culverts: Factory-made units enable quick installation with consistent quality.
- Seamless Connection: The culverts often have tongue-and-groove or other joint systems, easing alignment and sealing during construction.
4. Stormwater Pits and Catch Basins
What Are They?
Often called stormwater pits, catch basins, or manholes, these are collection points designed to gather runoff from roads, gutters, or open channels before directing it into pipes or other drainage structures.
Benefits:
- Debris Management: A stormwater pit often includes a sump area to capture sediment, leaves, and debris, preventing clogs further downstream.
- Maintenance Access: Pits typically have an accessible cover, allowing inspection and cleaning of trapped materials.
How Precast Concrete Fits:
- Customisation: Manufacturers can adapt pit size, inlet shapes, and cover options to match site needs.
- Structural Strength: Precast concrete ensures the pit can withstand soil pressure, traffic loads, and regular maintenance routines.
Essential Precast Concrete Components for Stormwater Drainage Systems
Now that we’ve examined the major types of stormwater systems, let’s look closer at the precast concrete pieces commonly employed to make them work:
1. Precast Concrete Channels
- Longevity: Concrete is highly resistant to weathering, chemical attack, and abrasion from high-flow water.
- Uniform Quality: Factory production yields consistent dimensions and material properties, simplifying alignment and reducing on-site labour.
2. Concrete Pipes
- Precision Manufacturing: Precast pipes come in standard diameters and lengths, allowing easy design and modular construction.
- Versatility: Whether for municipal storm drains or commercial developments, concrete pipes adapt to varied flow requirements.
3. Box Culverts and Inlets
- Swift Installation: Precast culverts arrive ready to be set in place, drastically cutting project timelines.
- Durability: Ideal for heavy traffic and areas prone to flash floods, supporting both water flow and over-road traffic.
4. Precast Stormwater Pits
- Robust Construction: High compressive strength ensures the pit walls and base resist ground movement or cracking.
- Easy Maintenance: Removable covers and uniform interior surfaces simplify debris removal and inspections.
How to Choose the Right Precast Concrete Components for Your Project
1. Assess Drainage Requirements
- Flow Rate: Estimate the peak volume of water, factoring in local rainfall and catchment area. This data drives decisions on pipe diameter or channel size.
- Site Conditions: Soil type, slope, and existing utilities affect the feasibility of certain drainage layouts.
2. Consider Environmental Factors
- Corrosive Environments: High salt content or industrial pollution might call for special coatings or admixtures in the concrete.
- Local Regulations: Councils often have specific mandates for stormwater runoff volume, water quality, or discharge points.
3. Evaluate Installation Constraints
- Access: If the site is limited in space or difficult to reach, modular precast components can help streamline construction.
- Timeframe: Precast solutions offer faster installation compared to on-site pours, which is beneficial for projects with tight deadlines or weather limitations.
4. Seek Expert Advice
Engineers, contractors, or precast concrete manufacturers can guide you in optimising the design—matching the system type to your site’s unique needs. Their recommendations can help minimise cost overruns while ensuring regulatory compliance and long-term performance.
What is a stormwater drainage system and why is precast concrete pivotal to its success? In essence, it’s an infrastructure network—ranging from open channels and underground pipes to box culverts and collection pits—designed to control water runoff, mitigate flooding, and protect both urban and rural properties. Precast concrete components shine in this role due to their high durability, ease of installation, and customisability.
By choosing robust precast channels, pipes, box culverts, and stormwater pits tailored to your site’s rainfall, soil conditions, and traffic loads, you can achieve efficient water flow and easy maintenance. Ultimately, investing in quality precast products not only ensures longevity but also safeguards communities from water-related hazards for years to come.
- Published in Precast Concrete
The Benefits of Using Precast Concrete in Construction Projects
Precast concrete has become a go-to material for modern construction, valued for its versatility, quality, and speed of installation. Unlike traditional concrete, which is poured and cured on-site, precast concrete is produced off-site in controlled factory conditions. This method yields superior, uniform components that can be transported to the job site when needed. From infrastructure projects to residential developments, precast concrete has carved out a prominent role in an industry seeking efficiency, sustainability, and reliability.
Key Benefits of Precast Concrete
1. Durability
One of the standout reasons why precast concrete is used in construction is its exceptional durability. Factory casting ensures consistent mixing, curing, and finishing, leading to components that resist weathering, corrosion, and wear. This longevity is vital in projects like bridges, tunnels, and parking garages, where materials must withstand heavy loads and harsh conditions.
2. Sustainability
Precast concrete production often adheres to environmentally friendly practices:
- Reduced Waste: Off-site production allows precise measurement of materials, minimising on-site leftovers and disposal.
- Energy Efficiency: The thermal mass of concrete helps regulate indoor temperatures, reducing heating and cooling costs.
- Less Site Disturbance: With large concrete pieces created elsewhere, there’s less dust and noise at the construction site, lowering the project’s environmental footprint.
3. Customisation
Contrary to popular belief, precast concrete is not limited to standard shapes and sizes. Manufacturers can create custom forms and finishes to match architectural visions—from decorative wall panels to unique facade textures. This versatility means precast elements can be tailored to aesthetic, functional, or structural requirements, expanding design possibilities.
4. Quick Installation
Time is money in construction. Precast concrete’s main advantage is faster on-site assembly:
- Fewer Delays: Off-site fabrication means weather disruptions rarely affect production timelines.
- Reduced Labour: Precast components arrive ready to install, cutting down on on-site pouring, curing, and formwork.
- Enhanced Safety: With fewer workers and tasks required on-site, the risk of accidents decreases.
As a result, project completion timelines can be significantly shortened—an attractive benefit for contractors and clients alike.
Applications of Precast Concrete in Construction
Precast concrete’s adaptability makes it suitable for a wide range of construction applications:
- Wall Panels
- Ideal for both structural walls and cladding systems, offering excellent insulation and aesthetic versatility.
- Flooring Systems
- Precast concrete slabs and beams provide sturdy, uniform floors with minimal on-site work.
- Hollow-core slabs further reduce weight and material use, aiding in efficient load distribution.
- Infrastructure Projects
- Commonly used in bridges, culverts, and road barriers, where consistent quality and speed of installation are paramount.
- Resistant to weather damage, reducing maintenance needs over the structure’s lifespan.
- Parking Structures
- Precast concrete components can rapidly form multi-storey car parks, delivering robust, low-maintenance solutions.
Cost Efficiency and Long-Term Performance
While initial material and transportation costs for precast concrete may be higher than site-cast options, the long-term savings often outweigh these expenses. By reducing construction time, labour costs, and on-site complexities, precast systems can lower total project budgets. Additionally, the material’s inherent durability minimises future repairs or replacements—a critical factor for any structure expected to last decades.
Precast concrete also boosts property value by offering a sturdy, low-maintenance solution that can withstand harsh environmental conditions. In high-traffic or high-demand scenarios (like commercial buildings or public infrastructure), the extended lifespan and reduced downtime for maintenance make precast concrete a highly cost-effective choice.
The widespread adoption of precast concrete in modern construction is no accident. Why precast concrete is used in construction boils down to its blend of durability, sustainability, design flexibility, and rapid installation—all of which can save time and money. From innovative architectural designs to massive infrastructure projects, precast concrete enables builders and designers to meet demanding specifications without compromising on quality or safety.
Whether it’s forming durable wall panels, flooring systems, or large-scale bridges, precast concrete offers a reliable, future-proof solution that benefits property owners, occupants, and the environment. By choosing precast over traditional site-cast methods, projects can be completed faster, with fewer resources and greater longevity—making it a worthwhile investment for construction professionals and stakeholders alike.
- Published in Precast Concrete
Why Use Precast Concrete Safety Barriers
Why should you use precast concrete safety barriers on your project?
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the many benefits of using precast concrete safety barriers, and how the team at Specialty Precast can assist you.
Advantages of Using Precast Concrete Safety Barriers
Want to know more about the many benefits of using precast concrete safety barriers on your project. Here, we’ll break it down in further detail.
Many Uses
There are many ways in which precast concrete safety barriers can be used. Some of these include:
– traffic management
– event management
– prevent crashes or hazards
– exclusion zones
– maintain security
Temporary or Permanent
Precast concrete safety barriers are a reliable choice because they offer either a permanent or temporary solution to your needs. And they can be adapted to your needs as required.
Weather Resistant
Plastic cones and safety barriers are brightly coloured but truth be told, they aren’t that durable.
Precast concrete is one of the sturdiest materials around and can last decades? Can you say the same about plastic?
Reduces Fly Tipping
Worried about fly tipping (AKA illegal dumping). This is something you can avoid when you choose precast concrete safety barriers to provide you with the protection and security you need.
Sustainable & Thermally Insulated
Precast concrete is highly regarded for its environmentally friendly properties. Not only is there reduced waste during the manufacturing process, it is also 100% recyclable and thermally insulated to suit a variety of temperature-controlled environments.
Counterweight
Another advantage of using precast concrete safety barriers on your construction project is their dual purpose. If needed, they can be relied upon as counterweights.
Easy to Transport & Difficult to Move
While precast concrete is easy to transport with the right equipment, it’s not as easy to move once it’s in place. This is an advantage particularly when compared to plastic safety barriers, as it reduces your chances of vandalism and you’re also less likely to have people move or steal your barriers.
High Quality & Aesthetically Pleasing
Sure, plastic safety barriers and light poles are effective. But are they high quality? When it comes down to it, they can be easily knocked over or damaged (not to mention the fact that they don’t look that great).
On the other hand, precast concrete is manufactured in accordance with safety regulations with each piece checked for quality control before it gets to your site. And it is aesthetically pleasing.
Where to Go for Quality Civil Precast Concrete
When choosing precast concrete – especially precast concrete safety barriers – you need to be certain that what you’re getting is of a high standard. This is something we can guarantee when you work with us.
With over 40 years in the industry working on precast concrete designs suited to a range of applications and usages, you simply can’t go past our expert team at Specialty Precast.
Find out more about the reasons why you should use precast concrete safety barriers or get started on your design by contacting us today.
- Published in Precast Concrete
Benefits of Civil Precast Concrete Part 2
Thinking of using civil precast concrete in your construction project, but want to know more about the advantages of doing so?
In part two of this article, we will continue discussing the many benefits of using precast concrete for civil applications and how the team at Specialty Precast can help you get the job done.
Advantages of Using Civil Precast Concrete
We mentioned some of the benefits of using civil precast concrete in this article, but given there are so many we thought it was worth further exploration. Here, we’ll continue discussing those advantages:
Versatility
Precast concrete is so relied upon in a civil capacity because it is such a versatile product. Just some of the various applications include (but aren’t limited to):
– risers
– lintels
– slabs
– pipes and drains
Durable & Long Lasting
One of the biggest benefits of using civil precast concrete is that it’s durable and long-lasting. When well-maintained, precast concrete can last between 50 and 100 years. This means that any civil works you install today will be almost guaranteed to still be in-situ and functioning correctly when your children (and possibly even your grandchildren) are grown up.
If that’s not an investment in the future, we don’t know what is.
Can Be Painted
While precast concrete is available in many colours and textures, it can also be painted. So if your company decides to rebrand in 10 years time, you have the option to paint over your existing slabs.
Easy to Transport
Using civil precast concrete for your project? You don’t have to be as concerned with transportation as you would be with other materials. Because of the way in which precast concrete is manufactured (in pieces), it can be easily transported.
This also makes storage easier to manage.
Quick to Repair
Poured concrete can easily crack or become damaged before the curing time is complete. You don’t have to worry about this with precast concrete. While it’s entirely impenetrable, if this strong product does need repairs, they can be done quickly and efficiently.
Ready to Install
You’ve probably had your fair share of hold ups on a development while waiting for poured concrete to dry. This is another benefit of using civil precast concrete: it arrives at site prefabricated and ready to install.
Flexible
Because precast concrete is created off-site in moulds, it could be considered a much more flexible option when compared to in-situ concrete. Custom moulds can be designed in almost any shape and size, to suit a variety of applications and uses.
Thermally Insulated
Does your civil engineering project require a product that is thermally insulated and sustainable? That’s exactly what you get when you choose civil precast concrete.
Fast Turnaround
Need a solution quickly. The time between design and fabrication of precast concrete materials seems complex, but it’s actually quite efficient. In this way, you can be sure you’ll get what you need, delivered on time and ready for you with little to no downtime.
Where to Go for Quality Civil Precast Concrete
When it comes to civil precast concrete, you want to make sure your investment is not only cost-effective but of high structural integrity.
With over 40 years in the industry working on precast concrete designs suited to a range of applications and usages, you simply can’t go past our expert team at Specialty Precast.
To discuss your specific needs for civil precast concrete on your construction project, contact Specialty Precast today.
- Published in Precast Concrete
How Can Precast Fencing Be Used?
Think precast fencing can only be used for one thing? Think again.
In this article, we’ll discuss some of the many ways in which precast fencing can be used, and how the team at Specialty Precast can assist you.
How to Use Precast Fencing
You’d be forgiven for thinking precast fencing is only useful as a barrier around your property. In fact, there are many ways in which it can be used, which we will discuss in more detail in this section.
Boundary & Security
Obviously one of the main uses of precast concrete panels for fencing is as a boundary between your property and another (or the road and nature strip).
Because of the durability and solidity of precast concrete, it is also a great option when security is of high importance.
Pool Fencing
Want to make sure your pool is as secure as can be, and can’t be accessed by children who are left unsupervised in your backyard? This is where precast concrete can be very beneficial.
Border or Edging
When you want to create a border or different levels in your garden beds, one option you may want to consider is precast concrete.
Noise Barrier
Worried about noise from either your own home or your neighbour’s? Install precast concrete fencing. It will act as a very effective noise barrier and help you maintain that privacy you’re after.
Can You Use Precast Concrete Fencing with Other Materials?
Yes, you can use precast concrete with other materials for your fencing. It can actually be very aesthetically-pleasing and effective.
When to Contact Specialty Precast
If you want quality precast concrete fencing for your property, contact Specialty Precast.
We are always working hard to make sure our products are some of the best in the business, and it’s this commitment to excellence that has earnt us a reputation you can rely on over the last forty years or so.
To find out more about the various uses of precast concrete fencing – or to order panels – contact Specialty Precast today.
- Published in Precast Concrete
How to Choose Precast Fencing
So you’ve chosen to install precast concrete fencing, but are you really ready to go ahead and order it?
In this article, we’ll discuss the things you need to consider when choosing precast concrete fencing for your home and how the team at Specialty Precast can help.
What Do You Need to Consider When Choosing Precast Concrete Fencing?
You may think that once you’ve decided on precast concrete for your fencing, it’s just a matter of going ahead and ordering. In fact, there are a number of things you need to consider before jumping in.
Here, we’ll expand on some of the most important considerations.
Your Yard Size
The size of your yard is one of the most important considerations you need to make when choosing precast fencing for your property.
Obviously, you need something that will fit in the space provided, especially as you can’t alter the size of pre-moulded concrete once it arrives on site.
Preferred Design & Finish
There are many different options to choose from when it comes to the design and finish of precast concrete fences. As such, you need to decide which of the options available will suit your requirements – or if you’d like something custom made.
Size of Fence
In addition to the size of your yard, you also need to think about the size of the fence you require. This is especially important if you have specific requirements that need special customisations.
Type of Temporary or Permanent Support
When you’re installing precast concrete fencing, you will need temporary support solutions as your project is pieced together. Make sure they are the right size, capacity and weight before you start bringing in your precast concrete.
Weight
When choosing precast fencing, you need to think about the area in which the product will be installed. This is particularly important when it comes to the weight of the fencing and if your current supports will be sufficient.
Maintenance
On the whole, precast concrete is fairly easy to maintain – especially when comparing it to other options on the market. But, you need to be aware of these maintenance needs and be able to access the fencing on a semi-regular basis.
Installation, Permits & Planning
With all precast concrete products, you need someone who is qualified to take care of your installation. It’s not something we recommend doing yourself. As such, you need to be aware of this before ordering your precast concrete.
You should also research whether you require a permit to install precast concrete fencing in your area, and any planning regulations you need to follow in order to get it done.
When to Contact Specialty Precast
If you want quality precast concrete fencing for your property, contact Specialty Precast.
We are always working hard to make sure our products are some of the best in the business, and it’s this commitment to excellence that has earnt us a reputation you can rely on over the last forty years or so.
Ready to install panels for precast concrete fencing? Contact the experts at Specialty Precast today to get started.
- Published in Precast Concrete
Benefits of Civil Precast Concrete Part 1
Thinking of using civil precast concrete in your construction project, but want to know more about the advantages of doing so?
This article will focus on the many advantages of using civil precast concrete, as well as advise where you can be certain of getting a quality product to ensure you achieve the high standard of finish you’re after.
What is Civil Precast Concrete?
Before diving into the nitty-gritty of the benefits of using civil precast concrete, let’s start with a basic definition.
Simply put, civil precast concrete is precast concrete used for a civil application. This includes things like bridges, stairs or tunnels.
Advantages of Using Civil Precast Concrete
There are a myriad of advantages to using civil precast concrete on your build. Here, we’ll go through why some of our most valued clients keep returning to this quality option time and time again.
Aesthetically Pleasing
Precast concrete is designed to be not only reliable in terms of structural integrity, but aesthetically pleasing. No matter its form, shape, colour or size, there’s no denying that precast concrete looks great.
While this mightn’t always be an issue for civil projects, it can’t hurt if for some reason, your precast concrete can’t be hidden and needs to be on display.
Customisation
When it comes to form, shape, colour or size, this is one of the other benefits of civil precast concrete. It’s highly customisable according to your specific needs, and will usually be designed with the assistance of a professional.
Quality Control
Especially when you choose to work with professionals such as those from Specialty Precast, quality control is a definite must of the precast concrete manufacturing process.
We have some of the most stringent quality control procedures around and manufacture our products according to the highest standard.
Reduced Curing Time
With poured concrete, you tend to waste a lot of time waiting for it to cure. This is not the case when you use civil precast concrete. It’s installed on-site and ready to go.
Sustainability
Sustainability is important, even in construction. And this is a benefit when you use civil precast concrete.
Civil precast concrete is incredibly sustainable, with little to no waste. It’s even recyclable, which is a definite plus.
Safety
Safety is a major consideration in the construction industry and something you can be assured of when you choose civil precast concrete.
Because civil precast concrete is manufactured off-site and delivered ready for installation, the amount of workers and equipment you have is reduced, which means that it’s a lot safer, and makes for a more efficient construction process.
Withstands Natural Disasters
Civil engineering or construction projects need to use materials that are durable and will stand the test of time. But it also helps if your chosen materials can withstand natural disasters.
Precast concrete is known to be a reliable choice in this area, with a fantastic fire resistance and flooding prevention rating. To find out more about how precast concrete performs when faced with a natural disaster, click here.
Less Framework
Construction projects using poured concrete generally tend to rely on a lot of framework. This is not the case when using precast concrete, which in turn makes for a safer environment and may even save you money.
Saves Money
Construction projects are often prone to budget blowouts but if you’re saving money on trades and delays associated with poured concrete and curing time, you have the potential to save money and keep costs down.
And because precast concrete is known for its longevity, it lasts and you won’t have to replace it. This is another way in which you can save money.
Where to Go for Quality Civil Precast Concrete
When it comes to civil precast concrete, you want to make sure your investment is not only cost-effective but of high structural integrity.
With over 40 years in the industry working on precast concrete designs suited to a range of applications and usages, you simply can’t go past our expert team at Specialty Precast.
To discuss your specific needs for civil precast concrete on your construction project, contact Specialty Precast today.
- Published in Precast Concrete
Benefits of Precast Concrete Fencing
There are numerous benefits of choosing precast concrete fencing for your home or business. But what are they?
In this article we’ll discuss why you should consider choosing precast concrete fencing over other options on the market, and when to contact Specialty Precast for assistance.
Why Choose Precast Concrete Fencing
The benefits of precast concrete fencing are almost endless. Here, we’ll break down some of the most popular reasons clients like ours choose this option.
Cost Effective
Compared to other options, such as timber or aluminium, precast concrete fencing is thought to be more cost effective over the course of its lifetime. And, with the cost of living on the rise and other expenses constantly increasing, why wouldn’t you want to save money where you can?
Aesthetically Pleasing & Customisable
Think the only option you have when choosing concrete fencing is solid, concrete blocks that make your home or commercial premises look sterile and uninviting?
We’d hate to tell you you’re wrong, but precast concrete fencing – especially the quality of product you get when working with Specialty Precast – is some of the most aesthetically pleasing and customisable around.
When you choose precast concrete fencing, there is an extensive range of designs and colours you can opt for and it’s customisable in terms of sizing, which is also helpful.
Durable & Long Lasting
One of the reasons people choose precast concrete is its durability and lifespan. Because it’s a manufactured concrete, it’s a lot harder than other options available in fencing, can last many decades and withstand all types of weather conditions.
Precast concrete fencing is also fire and termite resistant, which is a bonus when it comes to choosing the right fencing for you and your property.
Secure
Want a fencing material that will keep your family as safe as possible? You can’t go past precast concrete. Unlike wood or steel, this material is resistant to damage and not something would-be thieves can break through easily, giving you an added layer of protection you can rely on.
Sustainable
These days, everyone is looking for ways to reduce their carbon footprint. Choosing precast concrete fencing – which can be recycled and reused as well as being made from reusable resources – is one way you can achieve this.
When to Contact Specialty Precast
To be sure you’re getting a quality fencing solution, you need to ensure you’re working with a company that knows what they’re doing. Specialty Precast have been in the industry for decades and are always working to ensure our products meet all quality assurance and safety regulations.
And our design team simply can’t be beaten when it comes to striking and innovative solutions for you.
Find out more about how we can assist you with quality precast concrete fencing by getting in touch today.
- Published in Precast Concrete