When it comes to efficient, versatile, and sustainable building solutions, hollowcore precast concrete slabs are at the forefront of innovation. Whether you’re working on residential, commercial, or industrial projects, hollowcore delivers a range of benefits that directly address the demands of today’s construction challenges. Let’s dive into why architects, engineers, and contractors across Illinois and Wisconsin are increasingly turning to hollowcore for their projects.

What is Hollowcore?
Hollowcore slabs are precast, prestressed concrete elements with continuous voids running through them. These voids not only make the slabs lighter but also reduce material usage without compromising strength. Ideal for long spans and heavy loads, hollowcore can be used for floors, roofs, and even walls. The result? A structural solution that’s strong, durable, and cost-effective.
Why Choose Hollowcore?
Speed of Construction: Time is money in construction, and hollowcore helps accelerate project timelines. Precast offsite and delivered ready to install, these slabs minimize onsite labor and reduce curing delays. Your schedule just got a lot tighter—and your bottom line, healthier.
Structural Efficiency: With spans reaching up to 50 feet, hollowcore eliminates the need for intermediate supports in many designs. This allows for flexible layouts, open spaces, and more creative architectural possibilities.
Sustainability: Hollowcore uses less concrete than solid slabs, reducing overall material consumption and contributing to a more sustainable construction process. Plus, the thermal mass of hollowcore improves energy efficiency, helping buildings meet today’s green standards.
Fire Resistance: Precast hollowcore slabs provide inherent fire resistance, offering peace of mind for safety-focused projects.
Cost Savings: The reduced need for formwork, faster installation, and lower material use translate directly into cost savings for the owner and contractor alike.
Design and Application Insights
Hollowcore isn’t just versatile—it’s adaptable. Here are a few specific applications and details to consider:
Mixed-Use Developments: Perfect for buildings that require varying load capacities across floors, such as parking garages beneath residential units.
Educational Facilities: Hollowcore’s sound-dampening properties and ability to support large spans make it ideal for schools and auditoriums.
Warehouses and Industrial Spaces: Long spans and heavy load capacities make it a natural fit for industrial environments.
When designing with hollowcore, collaboration with precast producers is key. PCI-certified producers in Illinois and Wisconsin bring decades of expertise, offering custom solutions tailored to the unique needs of your project.
Hollowcore by the Numbers
Voids: Typically, Hollowcore slabs have voids that reduce weight by approximately 30-40% compared to solid concrete slabs of the same dimensions.
Span-to-Depth Ratio: Common span-to-depth ratios range from 30:1 to 40:1, depending on the loading requirements.
Thickness Options: Available in thicknesses ranging from 6 inches to 16 inches to suit various structural demands.
Ready to Build Smarter?
As we continue to push the boundaries of construction in Illinois and Wisconsin, hollowcore stands out as a reliable, proven solution for a wide range of projects. Its combination of speed, efficiency, and sustainability ensures that it meets the evolving needs of the AEC industry.
Looking to incorporate hollowcore into your next project? Connect with PCI Illinois & Wisconsin to explore the full potential of this precast marvel. Our team of producers and industry experts are here to help you design, specify, and build with confidence.

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