Few building materials available today offer the economy, flexibility and reliability of precast prestressed concrete. The scope of applications is exceptional.

Durable
Precast prestressed concrete will provide reliable long-term performance in extremely harsh conditions that could destroy lesser materials. Precast prestressed concrete is resistant to deterioration from weather extremes, chemical attack, fire, accidental damage and the determined efforts of vandals.

Precasting concrete in a plant allows the manufacturer to exercise precise control over all the variables, which affect durability, strength and appearance. Dense impermeable concrete can readily be produced by carefully controlling the materials, slump, water/cement ration, air entrainment and the curing process. All CPCI members plants manufacture in accordance with the CSA Program for Architectural and Structural Precast Concrete in accordance with CSA standard A23.4 "Precast Concrete - Materials and Construction".

Fast
Precast concrete components lend themselves to fast construction schedules. Precast manufacturing can proceed while site preparation is underway. Precast units can be delivered to the jobsite and installed the moment they are needed in any weather.

Fast construction means earlier completion and the resulting cost savings.

Flexible
Advances in production methods are permitting precast manufacturers to vastly expand the design variety possible using precast components. Many different types of forming systems permit CPCI members to take maximum advantage of the inherent plasticity of concrete to create precast components in shapes and sizes, which would be prohibitively expensive using other materials.

Economical
Standard structural shapes such as hollow core, double tees, beams, columns and panels can be mass-produced at low cost.

Where custom-engineered products are desired, careful design work can assure maximum economies of scale through repetitious casting.

Beautiful
Precast components can be delivered with a wide range of shapes and finishes ranging from smooth dense structural units to any number of architectural treatments.

Strikingly rich and varied surface textures and treatments can be achieved by exposing coloured sands, aggregates, cements and colouring agents using sandblasting and chemical retarders.

Custom form liners can be used to introduce reveals, patterns and other architectural effects. Stone, tile brick and other materials can be cast into precast panels at the factory, enabling designers to achieve the expensive look of masonry at a fraction of the price.

Contact your local CPCI members to discuss your next project.