With more than 753 million square feet of buildings (approximately 301 million square feet of wall panels) constructed using Tilt-Up in 2005, and approximately 664 million square feet of buildings (approximately 265 million square feet of wall panels) constructed in 2004, the industry experienced a growth rate of 13 percent in 2005. The annual growth rate is based on sales of lifting inserts as reported by the major manufacturers of Tilt-Up accessories. Lifting inserts are designed for a given thickness of panel and have a maximum lifting capacity. Using a series of calculations that account for underutilization and other factors, the total square foot of panels lifted, based on the connectors sold, is calculated. Then, using an industry-accepted ratio for low-rise buildings of wall-to-floor area of 0.40, the square foot of floor area enclosed by Tilt-Up wall construction is estimated.

According to Ed Sauter, Executive Director of the TCA, the Tilt-Up construction method continues to gain market share for several reasons: speed of construction, advances in architectural treatments, and adaptability to markets such as schools, retail centers and office buildings.

“Exposure of what is possible with Tilt-Up today is clearly shown in the diversity of architectural expression and quality of projects submitted as part of the Tilt-Up Achievement Awards competition each year,” said Sauter. “The growth of site-cast Tilt-Up construction as a preferred building method will continue to grow as more and more owners are exposed to the benefits.”