Concrete panels have become an increasingly popular choice for both residential and commercial cladding. Known for their strength, durability and aesthetic appeal, these panels add a modern touch to any space. Here we address some of the most common questions about concrete panels helping you understand their benefits, uses and key characteristics.

1. What Are Concrete Wall Panels?

Concrete wall panels are prefabricated panels used for interior and exterior wall cladding. They are known for their strength and are made from GFRC concrete mixes and ultra-high-performance materials. Concrete wall panels are versatile, providing both functional and aesthetic advantages and are used widely in architectural designs for homes, offices and public buildings. Our panels come in a range of finishes, colors and textures making them suitable for modern, industrial or organic design themes.

2. How Are Precast Concrete Panels Made?

Precast concrete panels are manufactured in a controlled environment before being transported to the construction site. The process begins with creating a mold that matches the desired shape and dimensions of the panel. Concrete, reinforced with glass fibers (GFRC) is then poured into the mold and left to cure under specific conditions to optimize strength and durability. This factory-controlled setting ensures quality, consistency and less waste, which makes precast concrete panels a sustainable choice.

3. How Thick Are Concrete Wall Panels?

Concrete wall panels vary in thickness based on the application. Panels, like FLOAT’s ultra-thin designs, can be as slender as 13mm, providing a lightweight yet durable solution for decorative wall cladding. For exterior or structural applications, thickness may range from 25mm to over 50mm to meet added insulation and strength requirements. This flexibility allows concrete wall panels to suit diverse architectural needs, from sleek interior finishes to robust exterior facades.

4. How Strong Are Concrete Wall Panels?

Concrete wall panels are incredibly strong, offering high resistance to impact, fire and weather. With materials such as GFRC, they achieve structural integrity without excessive weight. The strength of these panels often exceeds 5,000 psi, which makes them suitable for high-stress applications in commercial buildings and industrial settings. The durability and longevity of concrete panels make them a preferred choice for both durability and aesthetic purposes.

5. What Are the Benefits of Precast Concrete Panels?

Precast concrete panels offer numerous benefits:

• Quality Control: Manufactured in a controlled environment, these panels achieve consistent quality and durability.
• Efficiency: Precast panels speed up construction timelines, as they are pre-made and simply need to be installed on-site.
• Durability: Resistant to weather, fire and impacts, they are suitable for both interior and exterior use.
• Sustainability: Many manufacturers incorporate recycled materials and controlled production reduces waste.
• Customization: Available in various colors, textures and finishes. Precast panels can meet the unique aesthetic needs of a project.

6. Can Concrete Panels Be Insulated?

Yes, concrete wall panels can be insulated. Insulation materials can be applied on the back of the panels or incorporated into the design to improve thermal performance. Insulated concrete wall panels reduce energy costs by minimizing heat loss or gain, making them ideal for buildings where energy efficiency is a priority. Some precast panels integrate insulation layers, which combine structural concrete, insulation, and an aesthetic outer layer for a single, high-performance wall solution.

7. Are Concrete Panels Expensive?

Concrete panels vary in price depending on factors like size, thickness, finish and customization. In general, precast concrete panels can be cost-effective compared to traditional on-site pouring due to reduced labor and faster installation. While initial costs may be higher, the durability, low maintenance and energy-saving potential of concrete panels offer excellent long-term value. High-quality decorative panels pricing can vary, though prices may fluctuate based on custom specifications.

8. What Size Is a Concrete Panel?

Concrete panels come in a range of sizes to suit different applications. Standard sizes for wall panels are usually around 1200x600mm or 900x900mm, but custom sizes can be manufactured based on specific project requirements. Smaller decorative panels are also available for detailed work or accent walls, and larger panels are used for expansive exterior cladding.

9. Are Concrete Panels Eco-Friendly?

Concrete panels are increasingly recognized for their eco-friendly benefits. Precast production methods reduce waste and energy use, as materials can be recycled, and water is often reused during production. Additionally, concrete's durability extends the lifecycle of buildings, and its thermal mass properties improve energy efficiency, reducing heating and cooling needs. Some manufacturers, including FLOAT, integrate sustainable practices and use recycled aggregates, making concrete wall panels a greener choice for construction.

10. Can You Glue Paneling to Concrete Walls?

Yes, paneling can be glued to concrete walls, but it requires special adhesive designed for concrete surfaces. First, the concrete wall should be clean and dry, as dust or moisture can interfere with adhesion. Polymer-based adhesives work well for attaching paneling to concrete, providing a secure bond that resists moisture and temperature changes. For large-scale installations, mechanical fasteners may be used in addition to adhesive to ensure stability. 

More about FLOAT concrete wall panels

Our wall panels are thin, lightweight wall solutions designed for both interior and exterior spaces. At just 13mm thick, they offer the unique advantage of reduced weight without compromising durability, making installation easier and more versatile across various applications. These panels deliver exceptional strength and are crafted from high-performance, eco-friendly materials, ensuring lasting durability and resilience against moisture, fire and impact. Additionally, FLOAT panels provide excellent insulation, acoustic benefits and a modern, textured aesthetic that elevates any architectural design. Their minimal maintenance needs and range of colors and textures make them a smart, sustainable choice for contemporary spaces. Discover more at floatconcrete.com.