Some people might think that all concrete is the same. Just a gray, solid material that can be used for various things. However, there are many types of concrete, each with its properties and uses.
In this blog post, Action Construction Asphalt & Concrete will look at some of the most common types of concrete and what they’re used for. So, whether you’re a construction worker or just someone curious about this building material, read on to learn more!
What is Concrete Made of?
Concrete comprises three essential ingredients: cement, water, and aggregate. The cement binds the other two together, while the water allows it to be molded, and the aggregate provides strength and texture.
There are several types of concrete, but they all share the same basic properties. The variations come from the kind of cement used, the ratio of water to cement, the type and size of aggregate, and the curing process. The properties that are affected by the mix are:
- Durability
- Texture
- Appearance
- Strength
The Types of Concrete:
Concrete comes in various forms, some of which may be used for the same purpose. Depending on your needs, you might want to use:
Normal Strength Concrete:
It is considered the most basic type of concrete. The ratio of ingredients is such that the concrete will reach its final strength within 28 days. It’s perfect for driveways, sidewalks, and other applications where a moderate level of durability is required.
It has a compressive strength of about 3000 psi. The setting time for this type of concrete is about 30 to 90 minutes.
Reinforced Concrete:
Reinforced concrete is a form of concrete that is commonly used in industry and modern construction. The effectiveness of reinforced concrete is enhanced by embedding steel rods, wires, or cables into the mix before it hardens. These materials are usually known as rebar.
Buildings, roads, and bridges are all examples of common reinforced concrete structures.
Prestressed Concrete:
Prestressed concrete is made using a particular process. It includes the same elements as reinforced concrete, but they are stressed before being used.
When the concrete is ready, each end of the structural unit receives a pair of bars. As the concrete cures, this component is compressed.
The tension in the prestressing bars counteracts the compression applied once the concrete cures and sets. It makes for a powerful finished product.
Air-Entrained Concrete:
Some concrete forms contain billions of tiny air cells in each cubic foot. These minute air pockets relieve the concrete’s internal pressure. They create micro-chambers where water can expand when it freezes.
The air is entrained into the concrete during the mixing process using foaming chemicals like alcohols, resins, or fatty acids. It is then mixed with the other ingredients.
This type of concrete is often used in pavements, bridges, and parking decks. It’s also popular in colder climates since the air pockets help to prevent cracking caused by ice expansion.
Ending Note:
So, there you have it – a quick guide to the different types of concrete and their uses. If you need any asphalt paving, repairs, or general construction work, contact Action Construction Asphalt & Concrete in Fort Worth. We’d be happy to help!
