If concrete were to be invented today, it would be hailed as a miracle. The most commonly used building material in the world, we often take concrete for granted. But we shouldn’t. On this page we’ve detailed just some of the remarkable benefits of this unique substance - and how concrete bricks are today’s choice for the architect, the engineer, the builder, the insurer and everyone with an interest in a sustainably built environment.
It makes for a very powerful argument.
Concrete has a tough, hard surface which is extremely resistant to every day impacts and abrasion. It is also rot proof, fungus proof and mildew resistant. Some say it can last up to 2000 years! It also goes on getting even stronger for hundreds of years after it is cast.
Concrete acts as a thermal sink. With adequate ventilation, it can reduce cooling loads and avoid overheating in summer.
We have the ability to produce concrete bricks in many different colours - including black and white. Modern pigment technology ensures colour fastness and longevity – retaining colour for life.
Precast concrete reabsorbs significant carbon dioxide that was emitted during manufacture.
Precast concrete is an inert family of products so it does not leach out any harmful chemicals, it does not emit any gases, toxic compounds or volatile organic compounds ( VOCs).
As a dense material, it enhances privacy and is effective in reducing sound, which makes it an ideal choice for residential buildings. It can also be used to deflect noise or absorb it, making concrete an effective sound barrier on busy roads, for example.
Concrete is resistant to rain penetration - and can endure extreme temperatures and many, many winters of freeze/thaw cycles.
Concrete is fireproof. It doesn’t catch fire and does not melt.
Precon concrete bricks use our own aggregates from our local quarries and up to 54% of reclaimed aggregates. Its ‘green credentials’ are genuinely exceptional.
Concrete typically needs little remedial treatment following fire - and the fact it does not erode or or rot makes the task of clearing up after floods very straightforward.