Concrete may once have been a product used solely for commercial projects, but nowadays, it’s proving increasingly popular for use within people’s homes as an interior design feature. But why?
The same qualities that make concrete so popular for commercial and industrial use – its versatility and durability – are equally valued by homeowners. In addition, it is typically a more cost-effective option than other materials used for cladding, such as marble and granite, making concrete wall panels emerge as a budget-friendly choice.
Let’s take a closer look at precast concrete panels and how they are made:
Thin and lightweight, and able to be manufactured in a wide range of colours, textures, and sizes, precast concrete panels can be applied to walls and fireplace surrounds to help establish an eye-catching feature in your home.
Concrete is cast in a form or mould before being cured in a highly controlled environment to create precast concrete panels that can easily be transported to the construction site before being installed.
The term pre-cast simply means that the panels have been cast before being transported for use on-site, and their biggest advantage is the fact that they have been produced in an environment that is highly controlled and closely monitored, leaving less margin for error and superior control over the quality of the workmanship and materials.
Ultimately, being precast results in a concrete product that is high-quality and customizable.
How is precast concrete being used in modern homes?
There are many great ways that precast concrete can be used in homes, and here are two of the most popular ones:
Fireplace surrounds
Non-combustible concrete is a great choice for surrounding fireplaces or for making hearths and mantels. With their high customizability in terms of size, colour, and texture, precast concrete panels enable you to achieve a wide range of looks in your home, from minimalist to contemporary and everything in between.
Installed using a high-performance and flexible polymer adhesive, the concrete can expand and contract with the warmth produced by a fire without being at risk of cracking. For an even more polished and professional look, seams are given a tinted caulking for a cleaner, finished look.
If you’ve got an outdoor fireplace or are considering having one built, then you could clad it using precast concrete tiles. Exceptionally durable and able to withstand the elements, they are the natural choice for anyone seeking to work on a budget while also enhancing a space, both from a practical and design perspective.
Wall cladding
A fireplace surrounded by precast concrete panels can turn a dull and uninspiring fire into a blazing focal point that the eye can’t help but be drawn to, and it can do the same thing to your walls. Ordinary walls are, well, exactly that: ordinary. But precast concrete panels used as wall cladding can help you create all manner of stunning design elements in your home, such as wine cellars and staircases, and can even enhance its exterior when used on the outside of your home.
The true appeal of precast concrete wall panels lies in their versatility, and thanks to their durability and lightweight construction, they offer a simple and cost-effective way to give your home a stunning makeover without breaking the bank.