Press ReleasesVERSACORE PRECAST CONCRETE PANELS HELP CREATE ATTRACTIVE, AFFORDABLE WORSHIP SPACESFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- August 24, 2004 SAVAGE, Minn. ? Aug. 24, 2004 ? Church leaders and architects are often challenged with modest building funds to create attractive, inviting worship spaces. To help provide an optimum balance between cost efficiency and aesthetic quality in church construction or expansion projects, many architects are realizing the benefits of Fabcon's VersaCore? precast concrete panels. "Cost is always a factor for church groups, and precast concrete panels provide a durable and attractive construction material," said Jack Holmes, president of Minneapolis-based Vanman Architects and Builders, Inc., which specializes in the design and construction of religious buildings. "Churches are saving money by using creative materials such as precast concrete instead of brick and other more expensive materials." Other benefits of precast concrete panels include: * Ease of construction ? Compared to traditional construction methods such as brick and masonry, installation of precast panels is easier, which dramatically shortens construction times. * Reduced costs ? By speeding construction time, precast panels can reduce construction costs. They can also help control long-term maintenance expenses and provide a structure that is energy-efficient, reducing energy costs by up to 30 percent. * Durability ? Because concrete continues to cure after manufacture, structures made from precast concrete panels can last for generations. Precast panels are available in a variety of attractive exterior finish options that can be integrated into today's tight construction schedules. Fabcon currently provides 24 finishes, plus custom finish options that can be mixed and matched with 22 aggregate designs for commercial construction projects. "Constructing large buildings with brick or concrete blocks is becoming too expensive," said Jeff Nadeau, sales engineer, Fabcon. "Precast concrete panels offer a winning blend of affordability, practicality and attractive design." In addition to the cost-saving and aesthetic qualities, precast concrete panels also provide exceptional acoustics in facilities built for frequent use of spoken word and music. Because concrete Fabcon panels are exceptionally strong, large acoustic elements such as baffles, acoustic panels and draperies can be hung anywhere on a precast concrete panel, without the added costs of reinforced wall blockings or strengtheners. "Many of the worship spaces we design are used for both recreation and fellowship activities, so it is important to choose a building material that works acoustically in a wide range of situations," said Burton Youngs, principal and project architect at Moorhead, Minn.-based YHR Partners. "Precast concrete panels have a hard, smooth surface that reflects sound well. It's also easy to direct where sound needs to go by adding softer interior elements, such as draperies and acoustic panels." Company Background For Further Information Return to Press Releases |
