A total precast concrete system has benefits that apply to the entire building team – owner/developer, architect, engineer, and contractor.

What is a total precast structure?  A total precast structure is a structure in which the substantial core and shell of the structure are comprised of precast components.  Integrating precast structural and architectural solutions produces a system, as well as a methodology for producing commercial properties that are better, faster and more economical.  Total precast is suitable for many types of commercial applications and allows for a tailored design as necessary.  The architectural choices are nearly endless.

Benefits:

• Prestressed concrete can achieve long clear spans.

• Prestressing and available element sizes can provide high load capacity.

• Concrete mass provides inherent fire resistance without the need for field applied fire proofing.

• High quality materials provide durability in the most severe environments.

• Precast concrete can provide excellent Sound Transmission Class ratings.

• The thermal storage capacity of concrete will temper the heating and cooling load swings, which ultimately reduce costs for the owner.

• A total precast concrete structure provides single source responsibility from structural design through final detailing.

• Precast concrete structures are erected quickly.

• Precast production and erection continue year-round with little influence from weather.

• Both structurally and architecturally, precast concrete offers a multitude of design options.

One total precast structure Mid-States Concrete has worked on is The Humbucker.  The Humbucker, located in Madison, Wisc., is a 9-story total precast rental apartment building for University of Wisconsin students.  The exterior is comprised of structural precast wall panels with an architectural finish of colored concrete with an acid etched finish.  The project consists of 75 apartments and below grade parking.

As a design build project, the project owner, design team, and precaster were able to partner with each other from the initial design.  By understanding project goals early on, the design team was able to create ideas to achieve them.  The challenge was to quickly create an appealing structure in an efficient and durable manner to meet the demands and rigors of the student rental market.

As a student apartment building, the expectation for wear and tear was high.  Precast concrete construction was the perfect solution based on its aesthetic possibilities, safety, durability and speed of construction.  In addition to exterior precast walls, the project utilized numerous precast concrete products, including columns, beams, hollowcore plank, interior walls, balconies and stair/landing units.

The 98,000 square foot building was erected in 12 weeks in the middle of winter.

Project and Precast Scope:

• 89,500 square feet of Hollowcore Plank

• 33 Beams

• 7 Columns

• 289 Wall Panels

• 52 Balconies

• 36 Stair and Landing Pieces