Precast Concrete Panels Technology Benefits and Prices in Kenya

As Kenya grapples with a housing shortage, homeowners and developers seem to be turning to modern and new technologies to speed up construction projects. Precast concrete, which is slowly gaining popularity in the Kenyan market, is one such technology. Using precast concrete is a highly efficient and practical method of construction that makes construction buildings possible at a lower cost. So, how much do you know about precast concrete panels?

The demand for precast concrete houses in Kenya has increased massively in Kenya for the last few years. This is because the concrete panels used in constructing such houses are cost-effective and can be used on almost every type of building, including office buildings, apartment buildings, schools, hotels, dormitories, single-family homes, and townhouses.

What is a precast concrete wall panel?

A precast concrete wall panel is a construction product produced by casting concrete in a reusable form, cured in a controlled environment, and transported to the construction site.

Building with precast concrete panels is an alternative to the brick walling system and does not require as much labour. The panels are made by casting concrete on a steel pallet in a factory plant and curing it in a regulated curing chamber. They are then shipped to a construction site using open trucks for installation.

Benefits of precast concrete panel

Most Kenyans are now turning to precast concrete construction for various reasons. Some of the benefits of precast concrete panels include the following.

• Saves construction time: Saves construction time: Precast concrete construction is efficient and fast, and the project delay risk is minimal. The construction can be done simultaneously with other on-site activities, like earthwork and surveys.
• Cost-effective: Precast concrete construction saves money in terms of delivery and ease of installation.
• Durability: Precast concrete structures are strong and more durable against acid attack, corrosion, and impact and thus require minimal maintenance. They have a lifespan of between 50 and 100 years.
• Safe construction platform: No raw materials must be kept on the site for precast concrete construction, thus reducing the requirement of traditional formworks and waste.
• Quality assurance: The main factors which ensure the quality of construction, like mix design, temperature, curing, and formwork, can be monitored for precast concrete.
• Aesthetics: Since the structures are made of prefabricated concrete and cured in a controlled environment, several combinations of textures can be used. Additionally, a variety of shapes and sizes are available to choose from, and thus the aesthetical value of products is enhanced.