Educational buildings are in constant use and experience heavier activity levels than most buildings. According to available data, the average age of the 99,000 public schools in the United States is 42 years old. When a school building reaches 20 to 30 years in age, frequent repairs to equipment occur. Buildings that reach 30-40 years, begin to require replacement of equipment and structural elements such as roofs. School buildings in the 40 to 60 year range start to rapidly deteriorate and many school buildings are abandoned after 60 years of age.

Based on these statistics, it can be assumed that there are a large number of K-12 school facilities in the United States that are in desperate need of repairs. Not only are these facilities in need of renovations/repair/replacement, but older schools tend to serve a greater number of children in poverty. This correlation is rooted in budget constraints often faced in low-income areas of the country. The 21st Century School Fund projected that schools in 2018 would need to spend on average $196 million to update facilities simply to accommodate new students, a number which has increased over the last few years.

How Can Precast Help

Where does precast fit into this equation and how can precast assist with renovations/repairs/replacements that will serve the student population with minimal maintenance for decades to come? 

Precast provides a building solution that K-12 schools can utilize to create modern, low maintenance renovations to existing buildings. Precast structures have an adaptable and versatile design capability that can be blended with existing structures while providing safe and durable spaces for students.

Accelerated Schedules

A major benefit of using precast is the ability of precasters to meet tight project schedules. Oftentimes, schools cannot close during the school year for renovations and are forced to complete construction during breaks or over the summer months.  Precast components are manufactured offsite and arrive ready to be erected. Depending on the number of precast components, it can take as little as a few days/weeks to get everything in place, greatly accelerating construction schedules.  An additional benefit to the offsite construction of precast is that fewer people and equipment are required on-site. 

Match the look of existing materials/styles

Precast is a versatile building product that offers an array of textures, colors, and styles.  Precast has the ability to be matched to existing materials such as stone or brick through the use of brick inlays or specialized formliners. Precasters are able to use forms to make unique designs such as mascots or text. With the versatility of precast, schools have the option to design renovations that match existing architecture or create unique looking additions.

Fit in tight urban or project sites

As previously mentioned,  precast components are manufactured offsite in a quality controlled environment by skilled and experienced producers. The offsite process equates to less equipment and personnel on the job site and no delays in production due to inclement weather.  This also means that tight project sites, like those often found in urban areas, are no challenge for precast.  The precast erection schedule is highly choreographed so components arrive at the site ready to be lifted into place which minimizes truck traffic and the need for a large staging area at the site.

Case Studies

Charles Progressive Academy

The decision was made in 2011 to preserve the mid-century building with thoughtful additions conveying the significance of its architectural and social merits. The additions utilized precast concrete that saved time and money and resolved a number of design issues.

Summit Country Day School Addition

The solution for the new construction of the school’s addition was precast executed under an IPD-methodology. The existing architecture from 1888 was matched to perfection by a tightly integrated team, erecting a five-story structure and envelope in 21 days.

As school districts continue to explore solutions for aging structures that meet student demands while fitting budget and time constraints, precast is the answer.  The versatility, durability, and efficiency of precast “checks off all the boxes” while providing an aesthetically pleasing product that will stand for decades to come.