The use of clay product-faced precast concrete has evolved since the early 1960s into the designer’s choice for unlimited aesthetic options on all types of structures. It gives the architect the flexibility to combine the pleasing visual appearance of traditional clay products with the strength, versatility, and economy of precast concrete. Among the types of materials that can be embedded in the precast concrete are brick, ceramic tile, porcelain, and architectural terra cotta. These clay product facings may cover the exposed panel surface entirely or only part of the concrete face, creating accents. The demand for thin brick in precast concrete led PCI to develop a standard for embedded thin brick in precast concrete panels so that the design community can have control over the performance of their precast components.

Participants attending this program will explore the aesthetic options available incorporating thin brick in building enclosure precast systems, technical aspects when designing thin brick in precast panels, as well as the resiliency and insulated performance properties of the building material. Numerous case studies and regional projects will also be highlighted in presentations.

Learning Objectives:

• Describe methods to achieve color, form and texture.
• Review embedded clay product resources.
• Understand design economy considerations to optimize panel layouts.
• Understand insulated panel fabrication techniques.
• Understand R-values & insulation types as it related to building envelope performance.
• Discuss erection procedures and transportation considerations.
• Learn about precast specifications, design resources, & the plant certification program.
• Explain precast applications using several cases studies.

Presenters:

• Randy Wilson, PCI Director, Architectural Precast Systems
• Rob Ascrizzi, Vice President, Belden Tri-State
• John Stafford, Architectural Representative, Endicott Brick
• Marshall Walters, Owner & Founder, AP Formliners