| Definitions of Precast Stone |
|
Precast concrete is a manufactured product that is cast anywhere but its final location. Precast concrete is concrete that is cast in a form, or mold, and then later transported to its ultimate location. Precast concrete may also be known as cast stone. The "sugar cube" texture of cast stone simulates the look of limestone. It is, in fact, often referred to as simulated limestone. That medium is usually compressed and compacted into shape.
Precast stone became a desirable building material because it could resemble natural stone in color, shape, and texture at only a fraction of the cost. The use of precast stone has flourished over the last 100 years. It is an excellent building material and replacement for natural stone. Buildings made of precast are architecturally beautiful and made to last for generations.
|
| Wet VS. Dry Precast Stone |
Arban Precast Stone, LTD. manufactures both wet and dry precast stone, the two most widely used casting methods today. Each method requires a special mix design consisting of natural sands and aggregates. The sand and aggregate mixtures are blended with white Portland cement along with a blend of colored pigments. Wet and dry cast stone can be used on the same project and we can match colors, shapes and textures.
Wet cast stone is used in general for larger pieces. This cast stone work includes columns, spandrel panels, and other stone products that weigh more than a ton. They also contain supporting anchors and steel rods as reinforcement. All wet cast stone is left in the mold to cure for about a day. Wet cast stone is generally considered architectural precast concrete, not cast stone. (architectural precast concrete, spec section 03450)
Dry cast stone is a specific type of precast used generally for smaller pieces. The mix of aggregates becomes consolidated under a process of intense tamping pressure, water mist and steam curing. It is tamped with a air hammer until it is densely compacted and ready for removal from the mold. The dry tamp or VDT as it is commonly referred to, is best suited for pieces that can be readily repeated as the mold is emptied. Dry cast is then more suited to smaller repetitive pieces that normally have one flat side. One typical mold can produce more than 100 pieces in a days production. (cast stone, spec section 04720)
Arban Precast Stone, LTD. has the unique advantage of offering both kinds of precast stone. Either architectural precast stone or cast stone can be supplied. Both wet and dry cast stone are produced with the highest expertise and quality. We can decide together which is best suited for our customer's building needs. |
|
|
For more information:
Arban Precast Stone, Ltd.
19000 Colonial Port Road
Dumfries, VA 22026 US
Email: jarban@arbanprecast.com
(703) 221-8005 Ext 12
Fax: 703-445-1195
|
|
|