Precast Concrete Off-Site Construction: Techniques & Case Studies-Off-Site Construction Handout

Off-Site Construction Handout

Pdf Summary

This document provides an overview of precast concrete off-site construction techniques and case studies. Off-site construction involves designing, fabricating, transporting, and assembling building elements for rapid on-site assembly. The use of off-site construction methods is valuable to building projects due to benefits such as shorter construction schedules, greater cost predictability, reduced material waste, reduced carbon emissions, and increased worker safety. Skilled labor shortages are predicted to reach over 2 million by 2017, further emphasizing the importance of efficient construction methods.<br /><br />Precast concrete products and building systems are described, including architectural cladding, load-bearing wall panels, columns, beams, double tees, hollow core slabs, and more. The use of precast concrete offers benefits such as reduced number and coordination of trades, reduced materials like drywall and fireproofing, and quicker and cleaner building completion.<br /><br />Numerous case studies illustrate the effective use of precast concrete in various projects such as museums, schools, affordable housing, medical facilities, and commercial buildings. These case studies highlight the advantages of precast concrete in terms of construction schedules, reduced site disturbance, flexibility in design, and sustainability requirements.<br /><br />Important considerations for successful precast concrete implementation include early project planning, staged project turnover, conceptual design, schedule planning, early delivery, and simple installation. The collaborative design phase and target value design approach are also emphasized.<br /><br />The document provides additional resources for further exploration of off-site construction, including the National Institute of Building Sciences' Off-Site Construction Council, the Off-Site Construction Expo, and the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute.

Keywords

precast concrete off-site construction

construction schedules

cost predictability

material waste reduction

worker safety

skilled labor shortages

architectural cladding

case studies

sustainability requirements

collaborative design phase