FAQs

Ultra-high performance concrete (UHPC) is an exceptionally strong and durable concrete that includes high-strength steel or synthetic fibers, eliminating the need for traditional rebar. This allows for longer spans and less reinforcement. UHPC not only offers a potential life expectancy of over 100 years but also enables designers to create innovative and complex shapes previously impossible with traditional concrete.

UHPC isn’t meant to replace basic concrete elements; instead, it opens up new possibilities in concrete construction. You’re not limited by the constraints of traditional concrete, which means you can create more innovative and complex designs. Additionally, UHPC can offset costs by serving as an alternative to metal panels and reducing the need for other materials, adding significant value and flexibility to your project. This versatility and potential for unique applications are where the true value of UHPC shines.

UHPC has the same inherent fire protection and fire resiliency properties of normal concrete. Fire rating is based on the mass and strength of the concrete design. Please see https://www.pci.org/DesignForFire for more information on Precast Concrete Design for Fire Resistance.

UHPC is ideal for projects requiring the durability of concrete but facing limitations with traditional precast options. It allows for sleek, lightweight shapes that can be self-supporting or require less structural support, enabling the creation of thin shells. The flexibility and durability of UHPC make it perfect for a wide range of applications, allowing designers to dream and create innovative, complex forms with ease.

From parking ramps to bridges, to office buildings, UHPC has the potential to reinvent the way structures are built. If you have a project that would value from adding additional parking spaces or opening up clear span areas, UHPC  a great option to consider.

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Using UHPC in construction offers several benefits, including a significant reduction in raw materials and the need for less structural framing. This leads to faster construction times and more efficient use of resources. Additionally, UHPC’s superior strength and durability provide long-term performance and reduced maintenance costs.

Both materials can achieve the same architectural finishes and can be intermixed on the same project. However, when UHPC is strategically used through the building design, it offers greater flexibility in application, superior durability, and the ability to create lighter and longer precast pieces. With UHPC’s reduced weight, smaller cranes are needed on the jobsite, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.

Yes, UHPC can be fully customized to meet your project’s unique requirements. We can intermix pigments and aggregates to achieve the desired aesthetic, ensuring that each facade fits your design vision perfectly. Since no two jobs are the same, we tailor our approach to create bespoke solutions without relying on standard designs.

Yes, UHPC can be more expensive when you look at it purely from a cubic yard cost compared to traditional precast concrete. However, it’s important to consider the broader picture. With UHPC, you use less material overall, which can balance out the initial cost. Plus, it allows you to bring unique design elements to your projects that traditional concrete simply can’t achieve.