6 Precast Concrete Products to Enhance Your Construction

When it comes to modern construction, precast concrete products provide exceptional value through their quality and efficiency. These components are produced in a controlled factory setting—a process that accelerates project timelines and reduces the need for extensive on-site labor. Systems can be further optimized with specialized add-ons. These enhancements improve integration with the rest of the structure, simplify job site work, and allow for greater project customization.

With the right additions, standard components can be transformed into tailored solutions. So, what add-ons boost the performance of precast concrete products?

What Are Precast Concrete Add-Ons?

Precast concrete add-ons are features built into or applied to precast components to enhance their functionality. These upgrades are integrated during the manufacturing process, before the concrete sets. Their primary purpose is to streamline construction by minimizing the amount of work required on-site.

For example, they improve coordination with other trades, such as steel fabricators and MEP (mechanical, electrical, and plumbing) installers. When incorporated from the outset, these add-ons result in systems that require fewer modifications—ultimately leading to a smoother, more efficient build.

6 Precast Add-Ons That Boost Performance

Various enhancements are available to address specific structural and logistical needs. These custom features support seamless integration of precast concrete products with other building systems. Common options include the following add-ons designed to improve performance and simplify installation.

1. Column Notches

Column notches are engineered cutouts that allow precast slabs to fit snugly around steel or concrete columns. This feature supports structural continuity between elements. It also reduces the need for difficult modifications at the job site. Column notches are critical design features that affect how a column bears its load, so their proper design is essential for structural safety.

2. Embed Plates

Embed plates are steel plates or anchors that professionals cast directly into a precast slab or panel. They provide a secure point to accept connections from other building components, like steel beams or facade systems. Ultimately, they eliminate any need for post-installed anchors, which saves time and labor.

3. Weld Plates

Weld plates are similar to embeds, but their specific purpose is to allow for the quick welding of structural steel or other frames to the precast piece. These plates, also called fastening plates, are ideal when you must attach stair frames, railings, or other fixtures that require a strong structural connection.

4. Pockets

Pockets are voids or recesses that professionals intentionally form in a precast slab. They can receive steel columns, beams, or even utility chases for mechanical systems. Their inclusion permits a seamless installation of vertical supports or other components, a common practice in the assembly of precast beams and columns.

5. Fill

In some cases, you may need to add strength or fire resistance to hollow core slabs. A special grout-like fill material can infill the cores or voids within the precast component to meet specific load requirements or building codes. The material’s fire-resistant properties help a structure retain its integrity during a fire.

6. Rebar

You can specify rebar that protrudes or other cast-in reinforcement to create composite action with a field-poured concrete topping or other structural tie-ins. The addition of steel rebar is a common reinforcement method that increases the overall structural capacity and performance of the system, an especially important feature in seismic zones or areas with heavy loads.

Why These Add-Ons Matter

Each of these enhancements supports your project in three key ways:

• Faster installation
• Better integration
• Superior long-term performance

Incorporating these enhancements into precast concrete products increases efficiency, limits on-site labor, and helps keep timelines on track. Tailoring add-ons to meet specific structural and logistical demands ensures a more streamlined and high-performing final build.

Work With Boccella Precast to Customize Your System

We encourage contractors and engineers to consult with our team early in the design phase so they can select the right add-ons for a project. Boccella Precast possesses deep expertise and can tailor hollow core and other precast concrete products to solve real-world construction challenges.