This Is Precast

Precast concrete is all around you.

It carries you across bridges and along highways. It manages the water beneath your feet, protects communities from flood and severe weather, supports the systems that keep us connected and helps create the places where we live, work and play.

You may not always see it. You may not even know it’s there. But every day, precast concrete is helping build stronger, safe and more resilient communities.

This is precast.

What is Precast Concrete?

Precast concrete is concrete that is manufactured in a controlled environment before being transported to a construction site for installation.

Instead of pouring concrete into forms at the job site, precast manufacturers create products in a plant, where concrete is placed into reusable forms, cured under controlled conditions and inspected to ensure it meets project requirements. Once ready, the finished product is transported to the job site and installed.

That process combines the strength and durability of concrete with the precisions and efficiency of manufacturing. Products can be made to exact specifications while other work continues at the construction site, helping projects move faster with less disruption.

And precast is remarkably versatile. It can be a bridge beam or a buried utility vault. A stormwater system or a stadium wall. A highway barrier, data center wastewater structure, retaining wall or architectural feature.

Different products. Different purposes. One material solving problems above ground, below ground and everywhere in between.

Why Precast Concrete?

Durable. Efficient. Resilient. Sustainable. Versatile.

Precast concrete combines the inherent strength of concrete with the advantages of a controlled manufacturing environment. The result is infrastructure and building solutions designed for consistent quality, efficient installation and long-term performance.

Frequently Asked Questions About Precast Concrete

What is precast concrete?

Precast concrete is concrete that is manufactured in a controlled plant environment and then transported to a construction site for installation. Concrete is placed into reusable forms, cured and inspected before the finished product is delivered to the project site.

How is precast concrete made?

Precast concrete is made by placing a carefully designed concrete mixture into reusable forms at a precast manufacturing plant. Depending on the product, reinforcement and other components may be incorporated into the form before the concrete is placed. The product is then cured under controlled conditions, inspected and transported to the job site for installation.

What is the difference between precast concrete and cast-in-place concrete?

The primary difference is where the concrete is placed and cured. Precast concrete products are manufactured at a plant and transported to the construction site as finished components. Cast-in-place concrete is poured into forms and cured at the construction site.

What is precast concrete used for?

Precast concrete is used for transportation, water and wastewater systems, stormwater management, utilities, energy infrastructure, buildings, industrial facilities and many other applications. Common precast products include pipes, manholes, culverts, bridge components, barriers, utility vaults, retaining walls, tanks and wall systems.

What are the advantages of precast concrete?

Precast concrete offers durability, strength, resilience, manufacturing precision, efficient installation, design flexibility and long service life. Because products are manufactured away from the construction site, precast also can reduce onsite construction time and disruption.

Is precast concrete durable?

Yes. Precast concrete is designed for long-term performance and can withstand demanding conditions including weather, water, fire, impact, temperature changes and other environmental stresses. Product designs and specifications vary according to the requirements of each application.

Is precast concrete sustainable?

Precast concrete can contribute to sustainable construction through long service life, efficient use of materials, reduced construction waste and the ability to recycle concrete and reinforcing materials. Controlled manufacturing also allows producers to closely manage materials and production processes.

Does precast concrete make construction faster?

Precast concrete can help accelerate construction because products are manufactured separately from work occurring at the job site. Finished components can arrive ready for installation, reducing onsite forming and curing and allowing other project activities to continue while precast products are being manufactured.

How long does precast concrete last?

Precast concrete is designed for a long service life, although the lifespan of an individual product depends on its design, application, exposure conditions and maintenance. Its durability and resistance to environmental stresses make precast a common choice for infrastructure expected to perform for decades.

Can precast concrete be customized?

Yes. Precast concrete can be engineered and manufactured in a wide variety of shapes, sizes, colors, textures and finishes. Reinforcement, connections, openings, utilities, sensors and other components also can be incorporated into products to meet specific project requirements.

Where can I find a precast concrete manufacturer?

NPCA’s Find Precasters & Suppliers directory can help engineers, contractors, owners and other customers locate precast concrete manufacturers by location and product type.