A Precast Concrete History Lesson

The Colosseum in Rome

Although precast concrete was not widely used until the early 1950s, it got its start in architecture long before that. Today it is one of the most widely used materials in construction worldwide.

Del Zotto Products manufactures steel forms for all your precast concrete needs. We’re passionate about concrete. Keep reading to learn a brief history of this versatile material.

Precast Concrete in Ancient Rome

Ancient Roman builders were known for their massive, innovative architecture. They utilized concrete to build networks of aqueducts, culverts and tunnels. They were the first to pour the concrete into molds to create a wide variety of buildings and technologies. Many ancient Roman concrete structures are still standing today, including the famous Pantheon.

Precast Concrete Enters the Modern Age

In 1905, the first precast concrete paneled buildings were created in Liverpool, England. The man who invented the panels, engineer John Alexander Brodie, also came up with the soccer goal net. Precast concrete panels expanded across the globe and became a staple of modern construction.

Precast Concrete Now

Del Zotto Products Steel Forms for Precast Concrete

Today, the precast concrete industry can be divided into two sub-industries. Represented by the National Precast Concrete Association (NPCA), the Precast Concrete Products branch focuses on utility, underground and other non-prestressed products. The other branch is Precast Concrete Structures. It deals with prestressed concrete elements used in above-ground structures, such as buildings, parking structures and bridges and is represented by the Precast/Prestressed Concrete Institute (PCI).

Since its inception and throughout history, concrete has formed the backbone of world architecture. It’s as important today as it has ever been. Based on the increase in demand in recent years, it’s only going to continue to rise in popularity.

Whether you’re using precast concrete to build a septic tank or box culvert, Del Zotto Products has the forms you need. For more information about the products we offer, send us a message on our contact page. You can also connect with us via social media.