09 Mar, 2015
Many commercial building companies are turning to tilt-up construction as their preferred method for producing high-quality and cost-effective builds. If you are considering precast concrete for your next building project, then the tilt-up construction method may be the most suitable choice.
Today we look at some of the common questions around this innovative construction method, and provide answers to help educate you on the most important points of tilt-up construction.
A tilt-up building’s walls are formed by pouring concrete into horizontal floor slabs to make concrete panels. These precast concrete panels are then tilted into place using cranes to form the building’s walls- hence the name ‘tilt-up’.
The method has proven to be extremely efficient. Other traditional forms of building such as using CMU blocks require many different stages and a good deal of labour.
Commercial construction companies that use tilt-up do not require as much labour, which results in savings and greater return on investment. The process is also extremely rapid when compared to traditional building techniques, as many of the traditional stages of construction are compressed.
The main stages of construction are:
The method lends itself to a variety of projects and can be used across showroom, office, warehouse and factory construction.
According to the Tilt-up Concrete Association, site evaluation should include planning for storage of materials, moving of equipment, pouring schedules and panel erection sequences.
A flat site with open space is considered to be the ideal conditions for a build; however these ideal conditions are uncommon. The commercial building company that you engage should provide a thorough site evaluation, identifying any risks and making provisions for any site constraints.
For further resources, the Tilt up Concrete Association website provides both general and technical information on the tilt-up construction method.
Less required labour coupled with a straightforward construction process and locally sourced materials results in a cost-effective finished build.
The technique results in a highly durable concrete structure that is of the highest quality.
The technique can be adapted to meet the client’s requirements, in order to create an attractive finished building. There a many finishes available such as varied wall texture, shapes and colours to create a sleek build that is aesthetically pleasing.
Rapid Tilt construction is a Perth commercial builder, with many years of dedicated experience in precast concrete and the tilt-up construction technique. For a discussion around your next commercial building project, call Adam and his team on 08 9248 5272.
