Choose Precast Over Real Stone.

Why Use Precast Architectural Stone Instead of Natural Stone?

In my career, this topic, why choose precast over real stone, has come up many times, the outcome has always been the same, the use of precast stone in one of its formats, wet cast or the dry tamp method of architectural precast wins hands down. And even though I have pointed out the many key points, in my opinion, the 2 biggest are cost and flexibility of design.

When Not To Choose Precast Over Real Stone

2 areas that come to mind where this is not always the case are countertops and flooring material, more commonly known as “hard surfaces” In the industry it’s hard to beat some of the natural beauty that real granites and marbles present to the world. But with modern manufacturing techniques and finishes, architectural precast is making some great advances with them too.

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Do-It-Yourself Projects

With any form of precast stone, there is the opportunity for many people to take on DIY projects. This would be particularly possible a lot easier with many of the textured pieces, stepping stones(pavers), veneers (tiles) and some trim pieces. Even countertops with just a little help.

I will be writing a series of different DIY stone projects in the near future, so either stop back now and then or contact me and with your specific interest and I will respond.

Countertops. Best to Not Choose Precast Over Real Stone

Countertops in particular. Using recycled materials as part of the mix and one form or another of countertop clear coat resins makes precast countertops a very viable option and the potential for a great return exists. It is something I would have taken up if I had not retired and withdrawn from the industry.

Flooring Materials

Flooring materials. These have also made some headway with the same approach but when you look at an area of some of these floors, I can see and understand the potential drawbacks, with at least maintaining consistency and final finish and still being competitive. It could be viewed as going back to the days when terrazzo floors were the craze, I actually loved them when they were brought back to their original quality, but were a pain to patch up if you were remodeling, taking down walls etc.

I had at one time a separate division undertaking hard surfaces, a huge workshop, machinery and set up with stock, but this was not one of my best investments. Any form of precast business is a far better option.

The Advantages To Choose Precast Over Real Stone

When considering materials for architectural projects, precast architectural stone offers several advantages over natural stone. Here are some key reasons to choose precast architectural stone:

• Cost: Significantly less expensive.
• Design Parameters: Available in a wide range of colors and shapes, and can be fully customized, allowing for aesthetic beauty and design freedom.
• Durability: Precast stone is as strong and long-lasting as many natural stone products.
• Elements: Withstands more freeze-thaw cycles than most other building materials. It is resistant to fire, moisture, UV rays, and natural wear and tear, making it ideal for exterior applications.
• Scheduling Predictability: Predictable timelines streamline installation, optimizing construction timelines.
• Weight: Lighter than natural stone for the same finish.
• No Additional Footings: No additional footings are necessary in the foundation.
• Installer Friendly: The modular nature of architectural precast and cast stone simplifies the installation.
• Ease of Use: Easier to cut if required and no dressing of stone.
• Waste Disposal: Considerably less stone waste.
• Availability: Uses by-products of other quarrying operations or recycled materials.
• Maintenance: Precast stone requires minimal maintenance.
• Some of the points here can vary depending on geographical area and how your plant is set up

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Author Rob