What Is Cast Stone and Architectural Precast:
Product Description
Cast Stone:
Cast stone is a masonry product that can enhance the appearance of any building or structure. Stronger and more durable than natural cut building stone, cast stone is made from a mixture of fine and coarse crushed stone, cement, color pigments, chemical admixtures and water. The cast stone mixture can be customized to perfectly resemble a variety of natural stones, from limestone to granite or slate to marble. There is no need to paint or texture cast stone, as it can be customized to virtually any hue in the color spectrum and produced with any texture during the manufacturing process. Plus, because cast stone begins as a semi-liquid mixture, it can be reinforced with steel and molded to your exact design.
Architectural Precast:
Architectural Precast is a masonry product that also enhances the appearance of any building or structure. Architectural precast is used when cast stone pieces are needed but need to be larger or of a longer dimension, or where the piece is less repetitive. ACS has trained professionals to provide assistance in which type of product is best for which project.
There’s no need to worry about cast stone’s or precast’s usefulness, as it has been an essential building material for hundreds of years. In that time cast stone and precast have been refined and updated to meet and exceed today’s building demands. Once a custom cast stone piece has been produced to an architect’s specifications it can easily be installed by most masons. Versatile and easy to work with, cast stone and precast are the desired product for remodels and restorations because it can replicate deteriorating natural stone on existing structures. For architectural features such as trims, columns, ornaments, signs, or building facings, cast stone and architectural precast are the perfect choice for lasting splendor.
The quality of cast stone is set by standards of an oversight board called the Cast Stone Institute and architectural precast is governed by the Architectural Precast Association (APA). Not all manufacturers qualify for membership in the Cast Stone Institute. Advanced Cast Stone is a member of both Institutes and abides by their stringent standards.
Each manufacturer’s product has a unique look. Advanced Cast Stone uses a method of production that produces a fine surface that resembles Midwest limestone. The company has a color palate in natural colors that is available upon request.
For more information about cast stone see our Frequently Asked Questions.