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The Consideration of Weep Holes in NiCore™ Plank

Concrete is a porous material that absorbs water and as a result, a floor or roof comprised of hollow-core planks is not a waterproof system by itself, and NiCore™ Planks are no exception.  This is true not only for the finished system, where planks exposed to the elements must be protected by a permanent waterproof […]

Warping Double Tees for Drainage

Important to the performance of parking garages is the need for drainage of surface water from rain and snow on the top level directly exposed to the weather, and by wind-driven rain and melt off from slush and snow carried into the parking garages by vehicles at the lower levels. Precast, prestressed parking structures are […]

How and When Does Efflorescence Form

Jump To:  What is Efflorescence? How Seasons Affect Efflorescence When Will Efflorescence Form? Removing Efflorescence   When reviewing the production and finishing of architectural precast concrete, the multi-step operation of panel finishing is subjected to influences such as weather conditions and the age of the concrete.  Sometimes efflorescence appears, which complicates the process of approving the […]

Precast Concrete vs. Steel Framing vs. Wood Framing

Jump-To: What is the Most Cost-Effective Construction Material? Precast Concrete or Steel Framing Precast Concrete or Wood Framing? Our Precast Concrete   Steel, wood and concrete frame structures are three of the most common construction materials in the world. Each has its positives and negatives, but many experts wonder which is the best overall for […]

The Roots of Nitterhouse Concrete Products

Over nine decades ago, William L. Nitterhouse, a mason by trade had the thought and initiative to begin producing block during the slow months of the winter in his garage on Lortz Ave. in Chambersburg, PA. To begin such a process, in 1923 William L. purchased a machine straight from the pages of the Sears […]