ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF PRECAST CONCRETE

 Advantages

Precast concrete has several advantages over cast-in-situ concrete:

1. When identical members are cast, it is advantageous for the same formwork to be used.
2. As better quality control can be exercised in the factory or yard site, concrete of superior quality can be produced.
3. Smoother exposed surfaces can be produced, which may not require plastering.
4. Precasting work can be carried out under all weather conditions if adequate protection is provided in the casting yard.
5. Precast units can be made to the required shape without much difficulty.
6. When required, they may be dismantled without any breakage.
7. Curing can be done more effectively and economically.
8. Constructions can be erected mostly under all climatic conditions.
9. Buildings may be constructed at a greater speed.

Disadvantages

There are certain aspects that discourage the use of precast concrete units under the following conditions:

1. Special equipment are needed for handling, transportation and erection. This is of particular concern for large-size units like beams, slabs, columns, etc.
2. Cost of construction may increase due to the employment of skilled labour and due to mechanized construction.
3. There is more chance of damage to the precast units while loading, transporting and erecting.
4. Combining different units and making them function as per the design is really difficult, particularly if different types of units are involved.
5. Future modification to the building constructed using precast units is difficult.