Wall Systems
Les Schwab Tire Center
Overview
As Les Schwab Tire Center expanded into new markets across the country, the company needed a building solution that could preserve the look of its established prototype while making construction schedules more predictable. Its original design relied on integrally colored CMU, but working with different masonry contractors from market to market sometimes led to significant schedule delays. Fabcon partnered with Les Schwab to translate that prototype into a repeatable precast solution — a partnership that has grown from three stores in 2023 to over 50 locations.
Project Details:
General Contractor
Hoeft Builders
Engineer of Record
Farnsworth Group
Building Size
16,325 Sq Ft.
A masonry prototype reimagined in precast, replicated across dozens of Les Schwab locations nationwide
From its first three precast stores in 2023 to 50 locations and counting, Fabcon has helped Les Schwab scale its brand prototype with greater speed and consistency than traditional masonry construction allowed.
Problem
As Les Schwab Tire Center expanded into new markets, maintaining a predictable construction schedule became increasingly difficult. Its established prototype used integrally colored CMU, but working with different masonry contractors across multiple markets sometimes resulted in significant schedule delays.
Les Schwab needed a more consistent building solution that could maintain the appearance of its prototype while improving schedule reliability. While evaluating options for a multi-building project, precast was recommended as an alternative to CMU, offering a more consistent and predictable construction approach.
Solution
Fabcon helped translate Les Schwab’s masonry prototype into a repeatable precast solution using 12-inch VersaCore+Green® insulated sandwich panels. The system meets energy requirements across Les Schwab’s markets, allowing the prototype to remain consistent without extensive redesign.
To recreate the original red, gray and white CMU appearance, Fabcon provides a bright white exposed aggregate finish, with the red and gray areas field stained. Smooth steel-form-finished accent panels are field painted. Precast also allows construction to continue through winter without the heat and enclosure typically required for masonry.
Results
Precast has provided Les Schwab with greater schedule consistency, helping minimize the unexpected delays previously experienced with masonry construction.
The precast prototype has been well received and provides a consistent, scalable solution as Les Schwab expands. After beginning with three stores in 2023, Fabcon has now provided precast for over 5o Les Schwab Tire Center locations.
”We’re proud of the partnership with Fabcon and the role this solution has played in helping us grow into new markets!
Les Schwab Tire Centers
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