Some common facade systems used in concrete construction include:
1. Curtain Wall System: A non-load-bearing external wall system that is attached to the main structural frame of the building. It typically consists of aluminum or steel frames with glass or other panel infills.
2. Precast Concrete Panels: Standardized precast panels that are manufactured off-site and then installed in the building's facade. These panels can have a variety of finishes and textures.
3. Insulated Concrete Forms (ICFs): ICFs are hollow blocks or panels made of insulating material, usually extruded polystyrene (EPS), that are used to form the structural walls of a building. They are then covered with a finished concrete layer for the exterior facade.
4. Concrete Masonry Units (CMUs): Also known as concrete blocks, CMUs are used to construct load-bearing walls or veneer walls. They are comprised of solid or hollow concrete blocks, which can be finished with plaster or other cladding materials.
5. Sprayed Concrete or Shotcrete: This system involves spraying a mixture of cement, sand, and aggregate onto a preformed surface, usually a wire mesh or steel structure. It is commonly used for irregular shapes or curved surfaces.
6. Glass Fiber Reinforced Concrete (GFRC): GFRC is a type of concrete that contains alkali-resistant glass fibers, which add strength and flexibility to the material. It is typically used for thin, lightweight cladding panels.
7. Textured or Patterned Concrete: Concrete facades can be textured or patterned using various techniques such as stamping, acid etching, or sandblasting. These techniques can create unique and decorative finishes on the surface of the concrete.
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