Post Consumer Steel Makes Concrete Fencing Even Greener
Precast concrete fencing has a number of sustainable features - concrete is long-lasting, waste is minimized at the project site, color is mixed with the concrete to eliminate VOC release and painting once installed, and post and panel systems use substantially less concrete in the foundation footers than traditional masonry or block walls. Artisan Precast is the leading provider of post and panel fencing products and they now are using 90% post-consumer steel for reinforcement. This change makes such concrete fence offerings even more compelling for architects and project owners who are looking to obtain green certification for their projects.
Artisan Precast Featured in the L.A. Times
Artisan Precast was featured in the Business section of the November 3, 2008 issue of the Los Angeles Times. The article featured a photograph of the WoodCrete product and discussed the various aspects of the concrete fence business and the advantages of using concrete fencing. One expert spoke to the inefficiencies in construction that are inherent to the business. Precast concrete fencing is one product that mitigates some of the factors that impact construction schedules. By definition, the fence materials are made at a precast plant and shipped to the jobsite for assembly. Although precast fencing does not eliminate all modifications at the project, changes to product at the job are few and far between.
Concrete fencing has distinct advantages in terms of longevity when compared to other fence materials. This durability speaks to a sustainability aspect of precast concrete not often discussed. Although critics would argue that substantial energy is consumed in the production of concrete - specifically the cement component - the end product lasts for decades. This means less landfill and an overall lower use of resources since the need to replace the fence has been stretched to a life of decades rather than years. For more information on concrete fences, visit Artisan Precast.
Concrete Fences Instead Of Wood
More and more projects are turning to precast concrete fences such as FenceStone to achieve lower costs and to speed the completion of the project. Concrete fences that are precast at a plant are able to be erected much faster than traditional fencing. Add to this their superior beauty and durability and the argument becomes even more compelling. For projects requiring fence or wall heights over 6 feet, a precast concrete fence will usually provide a much more economical option than traditional CMU or block walls. Architects, engineers, builders, developers and city planners are, in many cases, just getting exposed to concrete fences. Data suggests that this type of walling material will likely lead the pack in new wall construction over the coming years.