admin Longer, drier summers followed by wetter periods are increasingly common across many parts of the world, but they pose a real risk to homes and businesses. Flash flooding is a common consequence of high levels of precipitation falling on ground that has hardened over the course of weeks or months, and is no longer quick to soak up that water and, instead, lets it sit and flow on the surface. Two relatively commonplace environmental phenomena (at least, in comparison with other natural disasters like hurricanes and snow storms) are forcing many of us to rethink how we design future constructions.
There are plenty of options for protecting against flash flooding, albeit some are far more practical than others. But, while sandbags and expandable flood barriers offer on the spot protection, the increasing likelihood of flash floods becoming routine events in many parts of the world mean that we need to look to longer-term solutions that offer more robust protection to homes and businesses.
Precast concrete is already a popular option on many building sites. Not only is it far more versatile than concrete that is being cured in place, but it’s also more cost effective, more durable, and more easily adapted to the precise needs of the site and surrounding terrain.
Modular systems tailored to tight specifications
On-site, it is incredibly difficult, time-consuming, and labour intensive to cast large, modular systems consistently. Even smaller systems prove difficult, since constructing moulds that are not only highly accurate, but easily reusable, is something only a small few can achieve. Even then, compared with off-site manufacturing, it’s still a costly venture in terms of time and money.
Off-site, in factory conditions, the modular pieces for a precast concrete retaining wall can be manufactured to a much higher degree of accuracy. Moulds can be reused, and larger modular systems can be created within a much shorter timeframe since space and other on-site activity don’t pose as much of an issue.
For flood defence, this is highly valuable, since these systems are designed to fit securely together. Weatherproof mastic seals or hydrophilic strips can be used to strengthen resilience and keep sites protected.
Concrete optimised for weatherproofing and high durability
Not all concrete is created equal, and it’s hard to deny the benefits of pouring and curing concrete under factory conditions, where controlling everything from the mix proportions to the humidity levels in the air during curing, is possible.
The result isn’t just a more consistent finish, but a much stronger, more durable concrete that is resistant to mould and water damage, airborne salts and other environmental factors.
When used on a site in an area that is at risk of flash flooding, owners can be far more confident that the modular system will do an effective job at holding back floodwaters and avoiding the level of damage we would expect if only temporary measures were used.
