The Importance of Mock-up Panels

Wells Concrete BlogUncategorized

Credit: Original article published here.

Once the Pre-Sale/Contract Award samples (typically sized 12”x12”, although they can be larger to incorporate multiple finishes) are approved by the architect and/or owner, the process for the mock-up panel approval can proceed.  It should be understood that the samples are only the first step in the development of the final product, and the approval of the mock-up panel represents the final decision. The minimum size of mock-p panels are 4’x4’, but they can be larger in order to incorporate all that is required. Of course, the approved 12”x12” sample must be compared to the mockup panel to ensure the original intent has been followed (see photo A).

Photo A

Mock-up panels should incorporate details of architectural features, applied finishes, textures, and transitions from one color or applied texture to another (see photos B & C).

Mock-up panels can demonstrate the more-detailed conditions that are encountered in the project as well, such as recesses, reveals, returns, multiple finishes, applied textures, and veneers (such as thin brick, stone, terracotta, etc.). See photos D, E & F

Mock-up panels should be produced using standard production equipment and techniques. It is vitally important that variables should be controlled to be as close to actual casting conditions as possible, such as retarder coverage rate & method of application, vibration, batch plant concrete, placing of the concrete into the forms and type of forms (wood or steel).

Once the mock-up panels have been review and approved, it sets the architect’s and owner’s level of acceptance and quality for the precast that will continue throughout the completion of the project, and it develops communication among all parties ensuring the design concepts have translated in to reality.

Rick Ostgard
Sales