Questions That Many Contractors Have About the Use of Tilt-Up Panels
Concrete tilt-up panels are made in a factory or production facility and then tilted up and put into place on a jobsite. This is a good choice for when you want a quicker construction process as you don't need to wait for concrete to be mixed and poured on the jobsite, and for when you need concrete walls and floors made to exacting standards. For panels that offer more noise insulation, better dust protection, and other such features, tilt-up panels made in a production facility are going to be the better option. Note some questions many contractors have about the use of tilt-up panels and then discuss these with a panel provider and installer if you still have additional questions.
1. Are reinforcements added?
Concrete itself is very strong and resistant to high winds and other inclement weather, but sometimes reinforcements are added to tilt-up panels as they're constructed. Steel grid can be put into place after side forms are erected, and then the remainder of the panel is added. If you're concerned about the strength of tilt-up panels and prefer working with material that are reinforced, ask your panel installer about adding steel grids onsite, as this can usually be accommodated.
2. Can tilt-up panels be insulated?
If you prefer to add insulation during the construction process, you should discuss this with a panel installer. The design of the panels may need to be modified somewhat; higher side walls may need to be formed to cover the insulation. The panels may also need to be installed on separate days so there is adequate time to add insulation.
3. Can the panels be painted?
Concrete is very versatile because of how well it holds paint and because it can be stamped to look like another material. The panels can be painted or stained at the factory or production facility, or they can be sandblasted for painting after they're installed. You can also sandblast them and add an aggregate to the surface if you want to create something with texture. Discuss these options with your panel installer so you know what they can do during manufacturing versus the work you would need to do after the panels are installed.
4. Can tilt-up panels be used on high rises?
The panels that are constructed in a factory or other facility can be lifted by crane and used on buildings of any height. If you're worried about reinforcing the panels or the weight of concrete versus standard steel frames, discuss this with a panel installer and note if steel grids might be added and if the foundation needs to be underpinned or strengthened to support the building's weight.
For more information about using tilt-up panels, contact a company like Allcon (NSW) Pty Ltd.
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