Building functional and aesthetic? Architectural concrete makes the difference!

Wetteren-based family business Agref was founded shortly after World War II as a manufacturing company of small concrete elements including tiles and pre-castings. Now, more than 75 years later, it has become an important trendsetter in architectural concrete. For private individuals, but even more so for property developers and contractors, it makes a multitude of custom-made precast concrete elements that add character to the streetscape and provide any building or architectural style with a beautiful, durable touch.

Tailored to each project

Agref is a fully integrated company that perfectly masters all steps of the production process: from structural thinking and the necessary calculations by its own engineering office to the delivery of finished elements at the construction site. In close consultation with the customer and according to the required or imposed specifications, Agref manufactures numerous precast concrete elements to size. These range from balconies, terraces and canopies over lintels, sills and façade panels to columns and ready-made stairs. For public administrations (and also specifically for residential care centers) she develops durable urban furniture to attractively decorate public spaces with decorative posts, benches and flower boxes.

A wide palette of colors and finishes

The advantages of exposed concrete are well enough known in the industry: it is virtually indestructible, soundproof, extremely impact-resistant, weather, wind and fire resistant, and easy to maintain. In addition, its aesthetic properties are just as important. After all, concrete is not the most widely used building material for nothing. The almost unlimited finishing possibilities ensure that exposed concrete fits perfectly into the framework of timeless, future-oriented architecture with respect for the environment.

Agref is committed to providing the right finish for every taste and every project: from basic smooth over washed, acidified and sandblasted to polished, brushed or rolled. The versions with visible granules are particularly popular today with builders and architects. In addition, all desired shapes can be created, from austere and straight balcony constructions and sober cornices to round, organic or complex polygonal flower boxes. Through the precise mixing of cements, sand and pigments, any specific desired color can be obtained, which harmonizes or just contrasts with the rest of the building. This also makes it possible to create concrete products that match the look of natural stone such as blue or white stone without depleting the natural resources in the quarries. 

Structured approach

Agref tackles each assignment according to a fixed step-by-step plan. First of all, there is a project meeting during which we actively think along with the customer about feasibility and stability, during which our own study and drawing office analyzes the customer's technical design, validates it and adjusts it if necessary. During the production phase, the creative ideas are converted into workable elements. The highly qualified production staff keeps going until perfection is achieved.

No product leaves the production hall without a thorough inspection to ensure that all set standards and requirements have been met. After quality control, the elements are finally delivered to the construction site with our own transport, where they act as real eye-catchers that effortlessly stand the test of time.