Here at Carlow Concrete Tanks, we provide precast concrete product and custom solutions for the agricultural, domestic and environmental market. But what exactly is precast concrete and what are the benefits of using it in your agricultural, domestic or environmental solutions?

What is precast concrete and how is it different to normal concrete?

Precast concrete and normal concrete are two very different products with two very different uses. In contrast to normal concrete which is known as in situ concrete, precast concrete is designed and manufactured in a controlled factory environment using state-of-the-art manufacturing techniques.

The moulds for precast concrete are reusable, reinforceable and adjustable. For example, our precast septic tanks are reinforced with steel to ensure the construction of a strong, durable system. The moulds are also set up for the design specifications before the concrete is poured in. When the concrete has been poured, it is then vibrated before undergoing any last finishes such as polishing or staining. The product is then transported to site and craned to its intended location. This is in contrast to standard in situ concrete which is poured into the formwork and cured onsite which is far more costly, labour intensive and time intensive.

The unparalleled quality, affordability and durability of precast concrete allows it to stand out when compared to in situ concrete.

What are the benefits of using precast concrete?

• Versatility

Precast concrete can be used in numerous industries as it comes in various shapes and sizes which can be tailored to a number of different requirements. It’s ability to be shaped into various textures, sizes and colours desired is what makes precast concrete so versatile. For example, here at Carlow Tanks we use precast concrete domestically for septic tanks but also in the agricultural industry for rainwater tanks. 

• Speed

 Using precast concrete helps to speed up the building process. Having the structures manufactured in a factory and delivered to the site; then hoisted up by crane into their desired location eliminates the need to wait for concrete to dry before work can proceed. The process of producing precast concrete is so efficient that precast materials can be made in advance and stored until needed on site which saves time and money and ensures your materials are ready when you are.

• Quality Control

 As precast concrete is manufactured in a factory, all pre-checks and quality control checks can be conducted prior to being on-site. Saving time and reducing the risk of any quality-control issues only being discovered on the day a project is due to go ahead. As the environment in which precast concrete is manufactured in is controlled, this eliminates the chances of outside variables such as weather interfering with the quality or timeliness of production. This also means that the production and delivery will be on time as weather delays which occur with in situ concrete pouring are not an issue.

• Affordable

 Concrete is already an affordable material but the low cost manufacturing methods of precast concrete makes this concrete solution even more affordable. Although affordable, precast concrete is of extremely high quality and has extremely low maintenance costs.

• Sustainable

 Precast concrete can almost always be broken down to be reused or recycled. Mouldings are also reusable and can be re-moulded time after time to produce various sizes and designs of precast concrete. Secondly, concrete itself is composed of natural aggregates including sand, gravel, water and rock. Much of the water used in the concrete making process is then recycled.  

Precast Concrete products from Carlow Tanks.

Our precast concrete products include septic tanks, rainwater harvesting systems (commercial & domestic), wastewater treatment and much more. Contact us today on 059 9159100 to learn more about our precast concrete products and how they can benefit you.