Precast
The term precast has two related definitions.
- When used as a verb to describe an action, precast relates to casting a material into a particular shape before the item is put into use. Precasting can be an effective method of producing a large number of identical components (such as wall slabs, beams, panels and so on).
- When treated as an adjective to describe an item, precast relates to the state of an object or material that has been fabricated into its final shape prior to installing it in its permanent location. The term, “precast concrete” is an example of this usage, describing a form of concrete that may be prepared (or precast) off site using certain moulds.
Articles about precast elements on Designing Buildings include:
- Alkali-activated binders for precast and ready-mixed concrete products: New supply chains, business models and environmental benefits
- Cement-free precast products
- Modern methods of construction.
- Modular construction.
- Off site construction.
- Off site materials.
- Precast Compound Wall
- Precast concrete
- Precast concrete cladding
- Precast Construction Market
- Precast flat panel system
- Prefabrication.
- The benefits of precast, off-site foundation systems in modern construction
- Volumetric.
Featured articles and news
Future Homes Standard Essentials launched
Future Homes Hub launches new campaign to help the homebuilding sector prepare for the implementation of new building standards.
Building Safety recap February, 2026
Our regular run-down of key building safety related events of the month.
Planning reform: draft NPPF and industry responses.
Last chance to comment on proposed changes to the NPPF.
A Regency palace of colour and sensation. Book review.
Delayed, derailed and devalued
How the UK’s planning crisis is undermining British manufacturing.
How much does it cost to build a house?
A brief run down of key considerations from a London based practice.
The need for a National construction careers campaign
Highlighted by CIOB to cut unemployment, reduce skills gap and deliver on housing and infrastructure ambitions.
AI-Driven automation; reducing time, enhancing compliance
Sustainability; not just compliance but rethinking design, material selection, and the supply chains to support them.
Climate Resilience and Adaptation In the Built Environment
New CIOB Technical Information Sheet by Colin Booth, Professor of Smart and Sustainable Infrastructure.
Turning Enquiries into Profitable Construction Projects
Founder of Develop Coaching and author of Building Your Future; Greg Wilkes shares his insights.
IHBC Signpost: Poetry from concrete
Scotland’s fascinating historic concrete and brutalist architecture with the Engine Shed.
Demonstrating that apprenticeships work for business, people and Scotland’s economy.
Scottish parents prioritise construction and apprenticeships
CIOB data released for Scottish Apprenticeship Week shows construction as top potential career path.
From a Green to a White Paper and the proposal of a General Safety Requirement for construction products.
Creativity, conservation and craft at Barley Studio. Book review.
The challenge as PFI agreements come to an end
How construction deals with inherited assets built under long-term contracts.
Skills plan for engineering and building services
Comprehensive industry report highlights persistent skills challenges across the sector.
Choosing the right design team for a D&B Contract
An architect explains the nature and needs of working within this common procurement route.
Statement from the Interim Chief Construction Advisor
Thouria Istephan; Architect and inquiry panel member outlines ongoing work, priorities and next steps.
























