Sample Process

At Gage Brothers, we understand that the success of a project is rooted in the details. That’s why we adhere to a meticulous sample process that ensures the aesthetic consistency and quality of every precast concrete element we produce. Whether you’re an architect, contractor, or developer, our process is designed to bring your vision to life with precision and excellence.

Samples
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The Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI) has established a comprehensive sample process that serves as the gold standard for the industry. By following this process, we prevent costly delays, ensure design intent is met, and maintain a smooth collaboration between all stakeholders.

PCI Sample Process

Precast Mockups vs. Samples

A mock-up is a full-scale representation of a design element, typically used to demonstrate the final appearance, fit, and functionality of a project’s components in a real-world setting. It’s often used for final approval before mass production, allowing stakeholders to see the design in its true form and scale.

However, samples are smaller pieces—usually 12″ x 12″ or 4 ft x 4 ft panels—used earlier in the process to establish and refine the aesthetic details like color, texture, and finish. Samples help guide decisions during the design phase, while mock-ups provide a final check for large-scale applications, though not always necessary depending on the project.

Sample Types

  • Pre-Bid Samples establish the general color and texture for the project. Typically 12″ x 12″ x 2″ samples, these are the architect’s control samples for bidding purposes. They help set the aesthetic tone of the project right from the start.
  • Initial Samples serve as the basis for larger approval samples. These are produced by the successful precast bidder, ensuring alignment with the project’s aesthetic requirements.
  • Production Samples set the standard for production quality. These are larger panels (typically 4 ft x 4 ft x 6 in) that incorporate project-specific details. Once approved, they serve as the production control sample, ensuring consistency throughout the project.
  • Range Samples define acceptable color variations. These panels are used to establish the range of acceptable color variations that will occur naturally in production. Collaboration between approving entities and our team ensures all expectations are met.

Regular communication throughout the sample process is essential for preventing surprises and ensuring that your design intent is fully realized. By fostering collaboration between all stakeholders, we can address any concerns early on, keeping the project on track. Ready to get started? Fill out the form below to discuss your current project needs and how we can assist you with choosing the exact finish you are looking for.

Sample Information

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