In the world of construction and architectural design, the choice of materials can mean the difference between success and failure. For parking garage construction, one material stands out for its remarkable benefits—precast concrete. This strong, versatile material makes for a smooth construction process, virtually unlimited design options, and an attractive building that lasts. In this article, we’ll explore why precast concrete is a favorite in the construction of parking structures.
The Structural Advantages of Precast Concrete
Precast concrete is a durable material that stands up to everyday wear, including the impact of vehicle traffic. This generates notable savings in maintenance and repair costs. Precast concrete is also known for its durability against damaging weather, fire, and catastrophic events, protecting the structure and the people who use it—even if the unthinkable happens.
Structural and Aesthetic Options in Parking Garage Construction
The versatility of precast concrete offers significant structural advantages, both practical and aesthetic.
Precast concrete supports long-span spaces, which are essential in parking structures for ease of movement and maximizing space. Because of their flexibility in design, precast concrete systems also allow for customization that can include unique features like helipads, amenity levels with swimming pools, or specialized loading areas.
Aesthetics are important as well, especially if you’re providing parking for residential, retail, office, or mixed-use developments. Shockey Precast offers a broad spectrum of architectural finishes and colors, and you might be surprised how you can achieve the look you want with a wide variety of options, everything from hand-laid masonry to granite, limestone, travertine, and marble. Simply put, the design adaptability of precast concrete ensures that parking structures are not just functional but also visually appealing, complementing their surroundings or making a bold architectural statement.
Efficiency in Parking Garage Construction: A Game Changer
One of the standout benefits of precast concrete is the speed of construction. Precast concrete components can be delivered to the construction site on a schedule that maximizes efficiency and keeps costs in check. Just-in-time delivery of precast components is ideal for projects in congested urban settings or with a limited jobsite footprint.
The efficiency of precast concrete is a game-changer in terms of project timelines, often translating to earlier occupancy and reduced construction costs. By involving Shockey Precast early in the design process, you can expedite the project by leveraging off-site manufacturing and rapid on-site assembly.
Showcasing Success: Two Parking Garage Projects
The practical application of precast concrete in parking structures is best illustrated through successful projects.
The VCU Health Parking Garage and the Science Museum of Virginia Parking Garage are prime examples of how precast concrete can be used to create efficient, durable, and aesthetically pleasing parking solutions.
VCU Health Parking Garage
When the time came to replace their old surface parking lot, the VCU Health System opted for a five-level precast concrete parking structure. A collaboration between Howard Shockey & Sons and The Eisen Group, the new parking structure adds 1,200 new parking spots for the students and staff of VCU Health and accounts for the anticipated expansion of the medical campus. Shockey’s parent company, Metromont, produced approximately 287,000 square feet of precast concrete for this building at their manufacturing sites in Richmond and Winchester, VA. The parking deck is equipped with LED lighting and security cameras, enhancing the safety and visibility for those using the facility. In addition to the garage, the project involved moving the helipad to the site’s western side in preparation for future enhancements to North 7th Street near the I-95/I-64 interchange.
The Science Museum of Virginia Parking Garage
The precast concrete design chosen for the new Science Museum of Virginia parking deck met the City of Richmond’s requirements for cost-effectiveness, rapid construction, and spacious design. For this project, Metromont’s Richmond plant produced nearly 101,000 square feet of precast concrete, achieving the assembly of precast components in a mere two months. This four-story parking facility includes three precast levels and offers 400 new parking spots for the Science Museum of Virginia’s visitors. In keeping with the aesthetic of the Science Museum of Virginia, Metromont employed an acid-etch finish and a form liner to mimic the limestone appearance and classical motifs of the museum. The entire project was completed within three months.
Shockey Precast’s Unique Approach to Parking Deck Construction
At Shockey Precast, we’re transforming the landscape of parking garage construction with our top-tier precast concrete offerings.
We understand the unique design intricacies involved in parking garage construction, and we are proud to provide exceptional materials and design–build services to meet the individual needs of each project. Our precast concrete is renowned the world over for its superior architectural finishes, merging practicality with visual appeal.
Beyond aesthetics, however, our team’s proficiency ensures reliable guidance and top-quality components, contributing to the safe and effective execution of every project. Produced in a controlled setting, Shockey Precast elements undergo rigorous inspection to meet our exacting standards of quality. This meticulous attention to detail reflects our dedication to the success of your project.
Precast Concrete: The Ideal Choice
The choice of precast concrete for parking structures offers a blend of aesthetic appeal, structural integrity, and cost-effectiveness. At Shockey Precast, our approach to precast concrete construction, combined with our expertise in design and manufacturing, makes us a leader in the field. For those looking to invest in a parking structure that stands the test of time in both functionality and design, Shockey Precast is your go-to partner.
Contact us to discover how Shockey Precast can bring your parking garage construction project to life with exceptional quality and service.
