Float Concrete: Concrete panels
Concrete panels are a popular choice for both homes and commercial spaces thanks to their strength, durability, and sleek, modern look. Whether you’re considering them for a new project or just curious about their benefits, here the team from Float Concrete answers some of the most common questions. From their key features to how they can be used, here’s everything you need to know.
1. What are concrete wall panels?
Concrete wall panels are prefabricated panels used for interior and exterior wall cladding. They are known for their strength and are made from GFRC concrete mixes and ultra-high-performance materials. Concrete wall panels are versatile, providing both functional and aesthetic advantages and are used widely in architectural designs for homes, offices and public buildings. Our panels come in a range of finishes, colours and textures making them suitable for modern, industrial or organic design themes.
2. How are precast concrete panels made?
Precast concrete panels are manufactured in a controlled environment before being transported to the construction site. The process begins with creating a mould that matches the desired shape and dimensions of the panel. Concrete, reinforced with glass fibres (GFRC) is then poured into the mould and left to cure under specific conditions to optimise strength and durability.
3. How thick are concrete wall panels?
Concrete wall panels vary in thickness based on the application. Panels, like our ultra-thin designs, can be as slender as 13mm, providing a lightweight yet durable solution for decorative wall cladding. For exterior or structural applications, the thickness may range from 25mm to over 50mm to meet added insulation and strength requirements.
4. How strong are concrete wall panels?
Concrete wall panels are incredibly strong, offering high resistance to impact, fire and weather. With materials such as GFRC, they achieve structural integrity without excessive weight. The strength of these panels often exceeds 5,000 psi, which makes them suitable for high-stress applications in commercial buildings and industrial settings.
5. What are the benefits of precast concrete panels?
Precast concrete panels offer numerous benefits, including consistent quality and efficiency, as precast panels speed up construction timelines. Concrete panels are also resistant to weather, fire and impacts, making them suitable for both interior and exterior use.
6. Can concrete panels be insulated?
Yes, concrete wall panels can be insulated. Insulation materials can be applied on the back of the panels or incorporated into the design to improve thermal performance. Insulated concrete wall panels reduce energy costs by minimising heat loss or gain, making them ideal for buildings where energy efficiency is a priority. Some precast panels integrate insulation layers, which combine structural concrete, insulation, and an aesthetic outer layer for a single, high-performance wall solution.
7. Are concrete panels expensive?
Concrete panels vary in price depending on factors like size, thickness, finish and customisation. In general, precast concrete panels can be cost-effective compared to traditional on-site pouring due to reduced labour and faster installation. While initial costs may be higher, the durability, low maintenance and energy-saving potential of concrete panels offer excellent long-term value.
8. What size is a concrete panel?
Concrete panels come in a range of sizes to suit different applications. Standard sizes for wall panels are usually around 1200x600mm or 900x900mm, but custom sizes can be manufactured based on specific project requirements. Smaller decorative panels are also available for detailed work or accent walls, and larger panels are used for expansive exterior cladding.
9. Are concrete panels eco-friendly?
Concrete panels are increasingly recognised for their eco-friendly benefits. Precast production methods reduce waste and energy use, as materials can be recycled, and water is often reused during production. Additionally, concrete’s durability extends the lifecycle of buildings, and its thermal mass properties improve energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling needs. Some manufacturers, including FLOAT, integrate sustainable practices and use recycled aggregates, making concrete wall panels a greener choice for construction.
Contact: Float Concrete
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