Concrete is a durable and valuable building material found worldwide. It’s used on some of the world’s most unusual concrete constructions. From residential structures to commercial complexes, from bridges to dams, concrete is widely used in constructing the infrastructure around us. Whether planning a project or wanting to know more about concrete services, check out its seven most common uses.
Building Foundations
If you’ve ever wondered what prevents your building from collapsing, it’s the foundation—something you can’t see. The foundation of a structure is what delivers support and stability to what is placed on top of it.
Concrete foundations are usually utilized in construction because of their affordability and durability. Building on concrete is more accessible than rock, making it a crucial component in ensuring a house stands straight.
Driveways and Patios
Due to its strength, low maintenance requirements, and adaptability, new concrete installation is a perfect material for driveways and patios. It can be stamped or painted to match the aesthetics of the surrounding landscape, making it a popular choice for homeowners.
Concrete driveways and patios can raise the value of your house, and they are recognized to survive longer than those made from asphalt. Additionally, concrete is a durable and dependable material that can also support large weights and prevent breaking.
Precast Concrete Products
Precast concrete products are assembled with essential elements made off-site and transported to the construction location for gathering. This technique gives several benefits, including reduced construction time, upgraded quality control, and possible cost savings.
Wall panels, beams, columns, staircases and even complete building modules are examples of precast concrete goods. They are commonly used in both residential and commercial building projects.
Doors
Concrete doors may appear lustrous and fashionable at first glance. But what makes them unique from other kinds of doors on the market is what lies between their slab surfaces. These doors can help improve the insulation within a room and reduce the amount of sound that enters and exits.
A “sound-proofing layer” absorbs sound from both sides of a barrier, thereby creating a quieter environment for both occupants.
Hydraulic & Marine Structures
Concrete is widely employed in hydraulic structures including dams, canals, reservoirs, and sewage treatment plants. The impermeability of concrete makes it a great material choice for structures that come into touch with water.
Concrete is crucial in dams and reservoirs as it is a robust barrier against water pressure, preventing leaks and ensuring structural stability. Additionally, the durability of concrete guarantees the longevity of hydraulic structures, lowering upkeep and repair expenses. Concrete is also used to build structures constantly in contact with seawater. These comprise jetties, breakwaters, docks, bulkheads, etc.
Sidewalks
Sidewalks provide a secure link between neighbourhoods. Residents use them to work out, walk their children to school, or even take their four-legged friend out for running. Cities and municipalities choose concrete pavements due to the material’s durability.
Concrete is a stronger, more readily available building material; these cities can rely on concrete pavements to last. They also know these sidewalks need low maintenance, which can result in excellent cost savings.
Mid-Rise and High-Rise Buildings
Concrete is a good material for creating mid-rise and high-rise buildings due to its strength, resilience to weather, and capacity to withstand natural calamities like hurricanes and earthquakes. Reinforced concrete structures can resist strong winds and earthquake pressures, making them a consistent choice for tall buildings.
Additionally, concrete buildings can be considered energy-efficient and have a long lifespan with correct upkeep.