It’s a known fact that concrete is one of the most popular building materials in the world, and it has been for some time. The Nabatea traders are credited with building the first concrete structures in Northern Syria in 6500 BC. With the invention of Ready Mix Concrete, which provides maximum efficiency for concrete contractors and customization for the perfect mix for spec writers, concrete remains the foundation for modern construction.
One word is constantly used to describe concrete: durable. Below, we will examine the definition of durability and explore factors that contribute to its durability.
Durable, What Does It Mean?
Many words are used to describe concrete and Ready Mix Concrete but durable takes the cake. So, what exactly does that mean?
According to the Global Cement and Concrete Association (GCCA), “Durability is the ability to maintain, over its lifetime, the performance for which it was designed.” Concrete’s durability is critical for sustainable building thanks to its incredible longevity and ability to withstand various factors.
Now that we’ve defined the term, let’s explore what makes concrete durable.
Concrete’s Ingredients Play a Big Role
Concrete’s basic ingredients are cement, water, aggregates, typically sand, gravel, or crushed stone, and admixtures — all of which play a critical role in concrete’s durability. Cement binds the ingredients together, while water initiates the chemical reaction known as hydration, which is responsible for the hardening process. Aggregates add strength and resistance to wear and tear, and admixtures improve specific properties, such as resistance to temperature fluctuation or chemicals.
Proper Mix Design Makes is Critical
Not all concrete is created equal, and having the right mix ensures optimal performance, which means increased durability. Ratios matter – particularly the water-to-cement ratio. If there is too much water, the concrete will be weaker, and not enough water leads to insufficient hydration.
An appropriate mix creates a product built to withstand the penetration of elements that cause degradation. Thanks to Ready Mix Concrete, working with a Ready Mix supplier makes it easy to guarantee you’ll have the right mix to perform for your specific project.
Admixtures and Reinforcement Help
Concrete on its own is highly durable. It is resistant to corrosion and rust and can withstand several natural elements. Over the years, the desire to push concrete’s performance further has resulted in the use of admixtures, supplemental ingredients, and reinforcement to enhance concrete’s durability.
Using materials such as fly ash, silica fume, or slag helps increase strength and longevity. Self-healing concrete, which uses bacteria or encapsulated materials to repair cracks automatically, promises to extend the lifespan of concrete structures. Air-entraining admixtures cause small air pockets that allow water to expand, preventing cracking during Freeze-Thaw Cycles. Using steel or epoxy-coated rebar significantly contributes to increased strength and corrosion resistance.
Curing and Maintenance Go A Long Way
Allowing your concrete to cure properly is a key step in durability. Curing ensures the hydration process has enough time for the product to reach maximum strength. Cutting corners with the curing process will lead to cracking and a weaker overall structure. Maintaining moisture on the surface, using curing blankets, or applying chemical sealers go a long way in the curing process.
Just because your concrete is cured correctly doesn’t mean you can forget about it. Regular maintenance, such as cleaning, sealcoating, and repairing cracks, is essential to its lifespan and overall durability.
Ready For Ready Mix? Contact Us Today!
A number of factors contribute to concrete’s overall durability, and it’s important to understand that mix design, materials, curing, and maintenance all play a significant role. Ready Mix Concrete’s customizable capabilities make it an easy choice when it comes to building a structure that will stand the test of time.
Now, it’s time to talk about your next project. Ready Mix Concrete is measured in volume, and as the leading Ready Mix Concrete supplier in Northern Texas, we have taken the guesswork out of it. Using our concrete calculator, you can determine how much concrete you need for your project.