When starting construction projects, it is best that you are familiar with the necessary and apt materials to use. You can begin by knowing the most common concretes used in constructions. Note that there are specific types of concrete for specific purposes. Also, they differ based on the type of materials used in making them.
1. Ordinary concrete
Also called plain concrete, this type of concrete mixes together cement, sand, and aggregates in a 1:2:4 ratio. It is pretty durable and is often used in making pavements or buildings. Also, it is often used for dam construction. One problem with plain or ordinary concrete is that it is not that sturdy when it comes to structures that are subjected to heavy wind load or vibrations.
2. Reinforced concrete
This refers to a type of concrete where cement is mixed with rebar. Here, wires, steel rods, cables, or fibers are placed in the concrete before it hardens or sets. It is often used for industry or modern types of construction such as homes, bridges, buildings, and roads. Reinforced concrete is preferred because it is effective in resisting tensile and compressive forces.
3. Precast concrete
It is any type of concrete that is made and cast in a factory following certain specifications. Once made, they are then transported and assembled at the project site. Some examples include hollow blocks, precast walls, poles, staircase units, or concrete blocks. They are chosen because they are made fast and are expected to be quality since they are made in a factory.
4. Ready-mix concrete
Ready-mix concrete is concrete prepared by a company that specializes in mixing concrete based on the specifications of the client. It is mixed during transport from the original location to the site. The location of the company should be close to the site because the concrete will set on route when it is too far. Ready-mix concrete is preferred to on-site mixed concrete because it is more convenient. You do not need to wait for the concrete to finish the treatment.
5. Decorative concrete
This is a type of concrete that can be distinguished based on color, shape, polish, and carvings. If you want to be creative or make an aesthetic statement, decorative concretes have a wide range of selections. They can be used for decorating walkways, swimming pools, and house floors.
6. Rapid-set concrete
Rapid-set concrete is the go-to concrete when you need treated and mixed concrete fast. There may be circumstances in your construction project that would require the use of this type of concrete. Unlike normal concrete, this quick-setting concrete can be used during winter.
7. Pumped concrete
Pumped concrete is less of a type of concrete and more of the type of conveyance of the concrete. Concrete can be pumped from lower places to higher elevations, such as for the flooring of tall buildings. It is more efficient to pump concrete than to carry it vertically using elevators. The consistency of the pumped concrete should be fine and loose so it can flow easily in the pumps.
