Why concrete?
With over 4 decades in the industry, and more than 30 years' experience working with precast concrete, Homestead Construction has built up a solid reputation for delivering better outcomes through project management excellence.
The modern form of precast concrete construction was first used in the early 1900's, and has since become one of the most popular methods of construction, especially for larger structures, in the world. The natural properties and benefits of precast concrete extend the useful life of the structure and reduce its lifetime cost.
Homestead specialises in 'Design & Build' projects, which help to maximise the benefits from using concrete construction due to our decades of experience with the system.
Speed of Construction
Production of precast panels gets underway early in a projects timeline, so that as soon as initial site works and foundation prep is complete they can be installed. This means the outer shell of the building is constructed very quickly. Subsequent works can then be started sooner, shortening the overall time of the build.
Noise Reduction
Concrete walls, floors, and stairs inherently exceed sound regulations, eliminating the need for additional sound attenuation and offer very high acoustic privacy. This provides an advantage in higher density housing and commercial applications, as concrete reduces low-frequency sounds that make less rigid walls vibrate, drastically reducing the transmission of noise. The higher density of concrete used in the walls resists the transmission of noise by as much as two-thirds.
Fire Wall
Precast concrete is non-combustible with inherent fire-resistant capability, creating a safe envelope that helps to protect personnel, equipment, and the structure itself. Concrete walls provide excellent resistance to fire and heat, and effectively inhibit the spread of smoke and flames, while maintaining their structural integrity. The code requires a 60 minute fire rating generally between intertenancy walls - our precast walls are a natural fire wall with a 180 minute fire rating, eliminating the need and cost of most additional fireproofing measures.
Strength
Few building materials perform as well as concrete when tested by the force of nature - from severe weather, to earthquakes, fires, and floods. The structural integrity of precast concrete can be relied on through any unforeseen events. All of the structures that we build are individually engineered to exceed the required earthquake standards.
Maintenance
Precast concrete is not subject to rot, rust, settlement or deterioration like other construction materials. Throughout its extended life-cycle minimal maintenance is required for the structure in its natural state.
Design Flexibility
Despite the rigidity of concrete, there is very little limit to the design scope when working with precast panels. From colours, through to textures, patterns, custom shapes, and sizes, there are countless options available to achieve the right aesthetic for any project.
Energy Efficiency
The thermal mass inertia of concrete, which is recognised in NZ standards, reduces peak heating and cooling loads, thus saving energy year-round by reducing large daily temperature swings. The solid nature of concrete helps to minimise mould, mildew and other indoor toxins by reducing drafts, cold spots, and the risk of a leaky building.
