PCI GULF SOUTH

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Precast Concrete: Making the Most of Tight Spaces

There are a lot of reasons why it’s sometimes necessary to squeeze a structure into a tight space. Given the choice, designers and contractors would not choose to be faced with constructing a project in close confines. However, there are times when a choice of locations is not an option and the challenge must be tackled. Some reasons for building in a cramped location might include:

  1. Rebuild/replace a demolished structure in original location

  2. Expansion of an existing structure

  3. Prime location for business/industry/tourism etc

With growing popularity, the construction industry is looking towards the use of precast concrete building components to solve or lessen the issues of working within a small area. Precast concrete as a primary building material for a project brings advantages  no other material can match. 

Along with the favorable manner in which precast concrete meets the needs of a small project area are some well known benefits of offsite manufacturing such as:

  • Produced in a quality controlled/quality inspected environment

  • Not at the mercy of weather related delays/cancellations

  • Consistent, high quality is achieved with each piece

  • Trucked to the jobsite when needed

In the PCI Gulf South region and other regions across the US, PCI certified producers know how to work in tight urban spaces while still providing a quality product to our clients. Below are a few examples of completed projects there were erected in confined spaces.

WWII Museum in Downtown New Orleans

University of Mississippi North Parking Structure

Campbell Sports Complex at Columbia University

The difficulty of building in a confined space cannot be minimized regardless of what building material is selected, but precast concrete products are particularly versatile and flexible. With careful planning/scheduling/sequencing/crane coordination, incredible structures have been created in some extremely challenging spaces using PCI certified precast concrete building materials.