Every construction project carries the pressure to meet the timeline and follow the budget. These construction projects are complicated, with each being different from the other. Therefore, the decision between precast and tilt up panels is entirely dependent on the nature of the project.

These construction methods are not traditional and help deliver quickly while reducing costs.

Before starting the construction of your next project, consider the following factors.

Factors to Consider While Selecting Between Tilt-Up and Precast

Location

The primary difference between these two types of construction is the location at which they are formed.

Tilt-up panels are formed on the construction site with the help of a casting bed. After this, cranes lift and put them into their place. The biggest advantage of this is that it does not require any transportation. However, since tilt-up panels are cured outside in the open, the weather conditions might adversely affect the process.

On the other hand, precast panels are formed at a factory and not the construction site. Since it is formed in a factory, the casting conditions are controlled, and the risk of bad weather is avoided. Although, storage and transportation costs can be pretty high.

Design

Tilt-up panels have the advantage and flexibility of moulding into any shape. It can best adapt to any design requirements on-site.

On the contrary, precast panels are formed by being poured into reusable moulds available at the factory. The scope for customization is less.

However, both these construction panels are available in a range of textures and colour options.

Panel Size

Tilt-up panels do not need to be transported. Therefore, they can be of any large or very tall size. The only limitation they encounter is the size of the construction site.

Precast panels are ordered in limited quantities to make their transportation easier. The limitation in their sizes generates the need for more panels.

Timeline

When the air temperature drops drastically, it can complicate the curing process of the panels. Therefore, when planning to use a tilt-up construction system, it is vital to consider the weather conditions.

Precast panels are poured and cured indoors, so the weather does not affect them. However, these panels need to be stored before being transported for assembly at the site. The lead time for precast panels may be very high at times, depending on the factory’s production capacity.

Energy Efficiency

Since tilt-up panels can be of large sizes, usually, there are lesser panel joints. Thus providing constant insulation and creating a thermal envelope.

Precast panels have more panel joints or concrete ribs. This disrupts the insulation leaving space for water or air to infiltrate.

Budget

Both tilt-up and precast panels have cost benefits. The cost of installation of precast panels is less. Meanwhile, the cost of tilt-up panels can be reduced by maintaining a tight schedule.

Structure

The tilt-up method makes use of steel products for construction. Steel can also be used for precast panels. However, another significant option is building a precast structure of concrete that includes precast beams, columns, and more. In this case, the precast panels improve the scope of cost savings.

Wrapping Up

As per The Australian Safety and Compensation Council, the rules and regulations regarding elements of construction must be followed.

Before making your decision, consider all of these factors to determine which option is the best for your project.