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The Drive for Urbanization Is Placing a Heavy Demand on Concrete - Depleting Sand Resources Worldwide
What’s a grain of sand really worth? You might think “not much,” until you consider the fact that sand is the second most-consumed natural resource in the world behind water. To underscore the importance of sand as a natural resource, consider the following facts. In Kenya, arsonists set several houses on fire. The occupants run to the hills. Then the arsonists start scooping the sand. This is just another day in one of Africa’s impoverished countryside. In September 2019, an
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Using Precast Concrete for Construction Projects: 7 Tips
Precast concrete is easy to integrate with other systems. It delivers flexibility, dependability, and robustness. This rhymes with the multi-hazard standards and long-term needs of high-performance construction. Here are seven tips for using precast concrete in construction projects. 1. Conduct Safety Assessment One can only achieve workplace safety through intentional efforts and actions, not by chance. One of these is safety assessment, which is essential to guarantee the s
Jul 20, 20223 min read
5 Innovative Precast Concrete Projects from TKL Group
TKL recently marked its 45th anniversary and has built a reputation for delivering quality precast concrete products to all projects it has been involved in over the years. Here are some of the projects the TKL Group has successfully delivered: 1. Belleville Public Library The Mechanics' Institute, which was in operation from 1851 to 1859, was the progenitor of both the Belleville Public Library and the John M. Parrott Art Gallery. In November 1876, the "Mechanics Institute a
Jul 18, 20224 min read
Tools and Equipment Used in Precast Concrete Manufacturing
The key to making high-quality precast concrete products is having the proper equipment and tools. To guarantee that the quality of the final product is not compromised, sufficient training to operate the equipment and thorough inspection and maintenance are essential. Here are common tools and equipment used to manufacture precast concrete. 1. Screeds Screeds are long, straight, rigid tubes or boards used to level and smooth wet concrete immediately after it has been poured.
Jul 12, 20223 min read
How To Leverage Technology For Historical Recreations
Those who forget the past often repeat it, but those who recreate it give us an opportunity to go back and experience history as it unfolded. Imagine walking into The Colosseum , the bowl-shaped arena that used to host over 50,000 spectators in one event, or The Pantheon with its mind-bending dome that was built 40 years after. Unfortunately, these architectural masterpieces were built over 2000 years ago. It's even a miracle that they are still standing after weathering man
Jul 5, 20223 min read
Planning For A Precast Concrete Project: 5 Tips
Planning is the base upon which precast concrete projects are laid. While this may sound like an overstretch of the imagination, to start a construction project without first seeking to understand the various components that go into a precast concrete system is akin to starting a car without knowing how to drive it. Of course, if the driver is experienced and knows what they are doing, you can leave the task to them. In this case, you need a tried-and-proven precast concrete
Jun 22, 20224 min read
How to Seamlessly and Safely Offload and Install Precast Concrete Products
Material composition and manufacturing techniques play a considerable role in reinforced or prestressed concrete behaviour under service loads. Because it is manufactured in a factory, this structural and architectural product has greater adaptability. As a precast concrete specifier or user, it’s important to be aware of the properties of the materials employed. 1. Pigments Precast concrete is frequently coloured with oxide pigments, which are available in a range of colours
May 30, 20223 min read
7 Different Materials Used In Precast Concrete Buildings
In 1907, a bridge in Quebec collapsed, killing 75 workers on the spot. Earlier, Theodore Cooper, a famous New York bridge designer had noticed a ¼ misalignment on the steel girders but didn't think it was serious enough to warrant a redesign. What resulted was a national catastrophe that could have been avoided. Construction materials, especially those used in precast concrete buildings must be of the highest quality possible. After the 1907 accident, the first building stand
May 12, 20224 min read
The Effects of Alkalis on Precast Concrete
Alkalis are soluble bases, which means they have a pH greater than 7. They are commonly used to dissolve fats and can be found in various cleaning solutions. But what impact does this have on precast concrete? Although potassium and sodium oxides are minimal in cement clinker, they are essential sources of alkalis in the finished product. This means that alkalis may be present in precast concrete as well, and they can substantially influence its performance. It is good practi
Apr 29, 20223 min read
What to Look for in a Precast Concrete Manufacturer
Choosing the best firm for a long-term investment such as precast concrete can be challenging. How can you determine which manufacturer is the best? What criteria do you use to determine who to choose? Precast concrete is a high-quality product, so it shouldn't be difficult to locate a reputable supplier. To avoid the common pitfalls arising from selecting the incorrect precast concrete supplier, the following are a few you can follow. Portfolio Although a firm may have exce
Apr 14, 20223 min read
Built to Last: Ancient Rome Concrete Structures that are Still Standing
It's said that Rome wasn’t built in a day. Perhaps this is because the Romans took their time to build architectural masterpieces that are simply built to last. Ancient Rome architecture was and is still a marvel. Visiting Rome, you can't fail to notice a couple of structures that have stood the test of time, weathering the elements and defying all odds to stubbornly remain standing. Over 2000 years later, researchers are still struggling to explain the durability of Roman
Mar 31, 20224 min read
Factors that Affect Concrete Mix Design
Concrete mix design is the right selection and proportioning of ingredients to generate concrete with pre-specified qualities in both fresh and hardened states. This is such a critical stage in the manufacture of concrete. You need a reputable concrete manufacturing company to be certain you have the right mix. Concrete mix designs aim to achieve specific durability, strength and workability levels. Let's take a closer look at some of the factors that influence concrete mix d
Mar 22, 20223 min read
Milestones in Precast Concrete Manufacturing
The precast concrete industry has come a long way; beginning with the first patented planter to the computer-controlled industrial production of precast concrete products we know today. Several milestones have marked the development of this sector. Here are a few: The Beginning Joseph Monier was a gardener whose vision was to create low-cost permanent planters. He developed many reinforced concrete products in 1867. Following his creation of reinforced concrete, the next lo
Mar 8, 20223 min read
Interesting Fun Facts About Concrete
Take a quick look at your surroundings and you’ll immediately realize just how much concrete covers our home planet, Earth. This man-made material is used in the construction of everything; from kitchen countertops to superhighways. This can be attributed to its exceptional strength and versatility. Did you know concrete has been used as a preferred construction material since prehistoric times? By 700 BC, Bedouin traders had created a concrete-like substance that they used
Feb 28, 20223 min read
The Impact of COVID-19 on the Precast Concrete Sector
The lockdowns, business closures, and travel bans imposed on the back of the COVID-19 pandemic had a significant negative impact on economies and industries all over the globe. The precast concrete industry was no exception. The demand for construction projects dropped, production of raw materials was halted, and restrictions on trade movements and supply chains were implemented. Practically every sector of the economy found itself in a tight bind. The precast concrete ind
Feb 15, 20224 min read
Characteristics of a Great Precast Concrete Manufacturer
Characteristics of a Great Precast Concrete Manufacturer Everyone agrees that precast concrete is an excellent construction material. However, to fully enjoy the benefits that come with it, you need to partner with a great precast concrete manufacturer. Why is this important? Because it requires skill, precision and experience with the requisite technology, not forgetting the logistics involved. Below are a few of the characteristics of a great precast concrete manufacturer.
Feb 3, 20223 min read
Precast Concrete Trends in 2022
Precast concrete is increasingly becoming a popular building material in most parts of the world. This can be attributed to its ability to meet the ever-changing worldwide construction standards. Precast is adaptable enough to feature in low-cost homes, middle-class housing, luxury buildings, and all types of construction. The precast concrete industry will become more competitive as people embrace a new normal. Here are a few of the expected precast concrete trends in 2022
Jan 26, 20223 min read
Everything You Need to Know About TKL’s Stone Veneered Precast Panels
If you are a fan of the visual appeal of natural stone, then you must try out TKL’s stone-veneered precast panels. They are economical, long-lasting, and resemble natural stone. However, compared to natural stone, these precast panels, which feature a thin, light material, are easier to handle and install. As with any purchase, make sure you know what you are buying. It’s your money on the line; so, get as much value for money as possible. Luckily, you have come to the right
Jan 18, 20223 min read
What Goes Into Making TKLs Coloured Precast Concrete
Most people associate concrete with the colour grey. This is because driveways, patios and sidewalks often feature this colour. However, concrete can be manufactured in shades other than grey. In fact, an entire universe of colour is achievable. Architectural precast concrete remains exposed when installed, and it can be produced in almost any colour, finish or texture imaginable.Elements for producing concrete or veneer material determine the colour and texture of the concr
Jan 6, 20223 min read
What You Need to Know About TKL's Insulated Precast Sandwich Wall Panels
TKL’s insulated precast sandwich wall panels feature two conventionally pre-stressed or reinforced concrete wythes. These have an uninterrupted layer of extruded polystyrene sandwiched between them. They are available in a variety of lengths, widths, thicknesses and exterior finishes. The panels provide a wall system that’s both functional and aesthetically appealing. Here is what you need to know about TKL’s precast insulated sandwich wall panels. They are Durable TKL’s prec
Dec 7, 20213 min read
All You Need to Know About Efflorescence
Efflorescence occurs naturally in all concrete products. It manifests as a white powdery deposit on the unit’s surface. It comprises salt crystals that form under certain conditions after installation. In deeper colours, efflorescence is more visible. You can identify it on a finished surface by tasting it. It doesn’t, however, jeopardize the operational or structural integrity of your precast concrete installation. While unavoidable, you can wash or clean it with an industri
Nov 17, 20213 min read
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