A precast concrete combination fence is created from a special type of concrete known as precast concrete. It’s a versatile and durable construction product that is used in a variety of residential and commercial projects.
Precast concrete combination fences use natural stone and concrete, along with architectural finishes, to create a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing system of fencing. These fences can be textured with stone on both sides of the wall since the concrete panels are formed, off-site, in a pre-made mold. These concrete combination fences are preferred because of their inherent strength and functionality, as well as their visual appeal.
So, how are precast concrete combination fences produced?
How this type of concrete fencing is made is part of its advantage. The benefits of using precast concrete are just part of the reason this construction product is preferred by both users as well as technicians.
To create precast fencing, a reusable mold or form is used. Then, the concrete is cured in a controlled environment. Once set, it is transported to the construction site and then lifted into place. This differs from standard concrete fencing. With standard concrete, the cement mixture is poured into site-specific molds and is then cured on-site.
Because this solution has proven to be so popular, the process has been improved over the years; this system has enhanced the look and feel of precast concrete. Technology has also been developed to support the efficient placement of these panels. For example, rigid footing support using a steel beam offers a safe column-footing connection. Precast fencing walls that have a separate column and panel use a rebar and grouted cell connection.
The very nature of precast concrete fences can also capture the natural detail and textures from naturally-occurring stone, giving both sides of the fence panels the look and feel of hand-laid stone walls.
Benefits of a Precast Concrete Combination Fence
One of the most pressing reasons to build precast fencing is its use as a concrete retaining wall. Functionally speaking, these walls provide the perfect support for keeping soil held into its place and stopping it from getting loose and running off.
If a structure (such as a house) is built on a hill or slope, concrete retaining walls keep the soil around the backyard or front yard from sliding loose. This helps to avoid flooding and keeps the structure in place, preventing it from damaging other nearby structures. Concrete retaining walls stop sinkholes from occurring and are easy and affordable to maintain.
One of the greatest draws for homeowners, however, is that a precast combination fence intended as a concrete retaining wall can enhance the aesthetic appeal of one’s backyard or front yard. Nobody wants a grey concrete slab to simply sit there on their property — even if it’s integral to the protection of the structure.
Precast concrete fences can offer a beautiful natural stone finish. They can also be custom designed to offer little ‘nooks,’ which can be used as spaces for planters, lighting, statues and other patio elements. Also, they can be combined with decorative iron for an attractive look.
Finally, precast concrete combination fences are perfect for both industrial and commercial business. At AFTEC, we offer the following industrial and commercial products:
- Sound/noise walls
- Highway sound barriers
- Utility walls
- Security walls
- Retaining walls
- Boundary and perimeter walls
- Combination walls
Precast Concrete Fence FAQs
What does “precast” concrete mean?
Precast concrete fences are used in the construction of buildings and homes. These concrete slabs are cast in a reusable mold or “form” which is cured in a dedicated precast plant under the watchful eye of experienced casters.
Once set, the slabs are then transported to the construction site and lifted into place. They’re then connected, depending on the needs of the site.
How thick are precast concrete panels?
Precast concrete fences have a thickness of at least 125 mm if reinforced, and a 150 mm thickness if there is a vertical project bar from the footing. Panels can go up to 175 mm in thickness if one to two layers of central mass is used.
What is the difference between precast and pre-stressed concrete?
Precast concrete is essentially any panel of concrete that is cast or set off-site, based on a pre-made mold. It is also cured and hardened off-site. Only then is it transported to the site, ready for use.
Meanwhile, pre-stressed concrete refers to a process that the concrete undergoes. The concrete is placed under compression to overcome any weakness in tension. This is a very useful practice as it eliminates some limitations on span and load, making it strong and perfect for supporting roofs, floors, bridges, and walls.
What is the advantage of precast concrete?
Precast concrete fences can be functional and beautiful. Because the concrete is mixed off-site, engineers and technicians can exercise a high degree of control over the mix and ensure that all materials are kept pure in the combination mix.
Once set, they can also apply natural finishes to both sides of the panels, giving it the textured look and feel of natural stone. Texture is highly attractive for residential applications and for businesses who want an aesthetically pleasing security wall.
Functionally-speaking, precast concrete combination fences offer a high degree of protection and are chosen as a retaining wall solution. When a structure is built on a sloping hill or is prone to major elements like wind, rain, and sunshine, precast concrete combination fences are the perfect answer.
Is precast concrete sustainable?
Precast concrete has an inherently sustainable composition, giving it some natural advantages. Because it is set off-site through a mold, it contributes to the reduction of excess construction waste, site disturbance, and noise that might otherwise occur from setting the concrete on-site.
Precast concrete fences are flexible: when a building is being expanded, the panels can be reused or added on to. If demolished, the panels can be reused in other applications. And since the precise process is self-contained, the form or mold can be reused up to 40 or 50 times, without major maintenance.
