Precast concrete cladding:
Cladding panels are individual units which are attached to the external frame of a building to enclose it. They may be load bearing, or they may be just decorative to act as a façade.
The techniques that are used in the manufacture of panels permit a variety of finishes that imitate virtually any type of architecture at a fraction of the cost.
Advantages that make precast concrete cladding such an appealing option are:
Durability:
Assuming the panel design has been carried out with proper thought for rainwater flow over the surface of the building, it will weather well and not require frequent cleaning.
Economy:
Precast cladding offers major cost benefits compared to its natural competitor, curtain walling. Costs can further be reduced if designers restrict the diversity of the panels, thereby boosting repetition.
Speed:
Cladding panel erection can often be completed without the need for external scaffolding. The process is quick and allows the swift enclosure of the building, a major benefit to all projects.
Quality:
Cladding panels are produced under highly controlled factory conditions. The highest grade materials are used and the concrete mixes are carefully monitored to ensure a quality finish.
HOW TO MAKE A CLADDING PANEL:
An exact inverse replica of the panel is built from wood. A suitable reinforcement cage is built and put into the mould. Spacer blocks are attached to the reinforcement to ensure the correct cover. Any fixings that need to be attached are put in place before the pour.
Carefully prepared concrete is poured into the mould and vibrated. The vibrated concrete is floated off by hand.