From municipal sidewalks to home improvement projects such as patios and paving stones, many construction projects require concrete. Depending on your needs and how it’s cast, this unique material can provide structural support or aesthetic appeal. To help you decide which is appropriate for your construction plan, here are some of the differences between concrete cast onsite and ahead of time.

Precast Concrete

In its precast form, concrete is poured into molds and cured away from the construction site. This lets contractors control the temperature and moisture conditions of the environment, allowing the concrete to set faster and fully harden by the time it arrives at the job site.

Contractors often use precast concrete for projects with strict, pre-established dimensions, such as fireplace surrounds, paving stones, sinks, pool coping, stairs, and countertops.

Depending on the size of the cast, transporting concrete can require special equipment.

Site-Cast Concrete

Site-cast, or in-situ concrete, is poured at the construction site on top of rebar grid systems or stone aggregates and frames. It creates durable, smooth surfaces that support structural bases that can withstand harsh conditions such as changing temperatures, impact, and floods with minimal or no damage.

Concrete poured onsite can take days to harden, and must be protected from traffic and weather to ensure it dries smoothly and evenly. You often see it on sidewalks, foundations, driveways, parking lots, and patios, since these larger spaces are too large to be poured off-site. 

If you need foundation and concrete services of your home or commercial project, contact Olson Construction Inc. in La Crosse County, WI. This licensed and insured construction firm provides home improvement services including insulation, roofing, kitchen and bathroom remodels, and modifications to help you age comfortably in place. Visit their website for more information about their process, or call (608) 304-5188 to discuss your remodeling project.