The recent announcement of a 25% tariff on imported steel and aluminum, effective March 12, 2025, is anticipated to impact construction costs, prompting developers and construction managers to explore alternative building materials that offer both economic and structural benefits. Precast concrete has emerged as a viable solution, providing cost stability, design flexibility, and enhanced durability.

Converting Projects from Steel to Precast Concrete

Transitioning from steel framing to precast concrete involves several key steps:

1. Project Assessment: Evaluate the existing design to identify areas where precast concrete can be integrated effectively.​
2. Design Collaboration: Engage with Gage Brothers early in the design phase to adapt structural and architectural plans, ensuring compliance with building codes and project requirements.​
3. Engineering Analysis: Conduct structural analyses to confirm that the precast elements meet all necessary load-bearing and performance criteria.​
4. Cost Evaluation: Compare the costs associated with steel and precast concrete, considering material expenses, labor, and long-term maintenance.​
5. Scheduling: Plan the manufacturing and installation timelines for precast components to align with the overall project schedule.

Partnering for Success: Gage Brothers’ Preconstruction Services Are Here to Assist You

At Gage Brothers, we offer comprehensive preconstruction services, including design assistance, to facilitate the seamless integration of precast concrete into your projects. Our team collaborates with developers and construction managers from the initial stages to optimize designs for precast applications, ensuring efficiency and cost-effectiveness.

• Design Assistance: At Gage Brothers, we understand that early collaboration is key to successful project outcomes. Our Design Assistance Services involve close partnership with your design team to ensure the project meets all aesthetic and functional goals. We engage in regular design meetings to determine optimal precast panel and connection schemes, developing schedules and budgets that align with your project’s requirements.
• In-House Engineering Expertise: Our engineering team brings decades of experience, having designed more than 30 million square feet of panels and countless structural components. This extensive expertise enables us to provide practical and innovative solutions that maximize efficiency, minimize downtime, and reduce costs. By collaborating with our in-house engineers, clients benefit from tailored strategies that address the unique challenges of each project, ensuring structural integrity and compliance with all relevant standards.
• Comprehensive Preconstruction Services: Beyond design and engineering, Gage Brothers offers a range of preconstruction services, including:​
  • Total Precast Solutions: Providing structural and architectural precast components to build entire structures, offering a one-source solution for faster construction timelines and superior durability.
  • Panelization: Optimizing the layout and design of precast panels to ensure efficient manufacturing and installation.​
  • Sample Process: Adhering to a meticulous sample process to ensure aesthetic consistency and quality of every precast element.

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To explore how precast concrete can be integrated into your upcoming projects or to discuss tailored solutions that align with your design and budgetary goals, we invite you to connect with our Business Development team. Contact us to schedule a consultation and learn more about the advantages of precast concrete in the current construction climate.

Gage Brothers Business Development Team