A Primer on Concrete: What is Concrete?

What is Concrete?

Concrete is a composite material most often comprising a mix of fine and coarse aggregate bonded with a fluid cement (lime-based) that hardens over time. Most concrete that experienced concrete contractors use are lime-based such as Portland cement although some concrete is made with other hydraulic cement, such as cement fondu the world’s first commercially manufactured calcium aluminate cement.

How is Concrete Made?

The concrete is proportioned (mixed) to have certain materials in specific ratios. Concrete is composed of four main ingredients: water, aggregate (sand, gravel, or crushed stone), Portland cement, and chemical admixtures. . The dry ingredients are first placed into a concrete mixer. Then, clean water is slowly added until the desired consistency is achieved. Once mixed, concrete is transported to the job site where the concrete is mixed with water to form a slurry, which is then poured into moulds or forms. The concrete hardens as it dries, and the resulting product is a strong, durable material that can serve a variety of purposes.

Concrete is Versatile

One of the beneficial features of concrete is that it can be customized to suit the specific needs of a project. For example, concrete can be adjusted to be more or less porous, depending on the application. Concrete can also be made in various colours and textures to meet the aesthetic requirements of a project. In addition, concrete can be cast into a variety of shapes and sizes, making it a highly versatile material that is suitable for a wide range of applications.

Concrete is durable

Another benefit of concrete is that it is a durable material that can withstand a variety of weather conditions. Concrete is not affected by rot, insects, or water, and it does not corrode like other materials. In addition, concrete can last for centuries with proper maintenance.

Concrete is an Affordable Choice

Concrete and asphalt are the most popular driveway resurfacing materials, according to a recent survey. While asphalt is less expensive in the beginning, the two products are now more competitive on price than ever before. It’s also worth considering the long-term benefits rather than just the immediate expenses.

Concrete is Environmentally Friendly

Concrete is a natural material that is made from locally sourced materials. It can be recycled and reused, making it an environmentally responsible choice for many projects.

Concrete is made of naturally occurring substances that produce no emissions and require no toxic preservatives. Concrete does not emit Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs) or Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs), two pollutants that are detrimental to plant growth and soil bacterial communities.

Concrete does cause CO2 to be produced during manufacturing and when using heavy equipment to mix, pour and pump concrete but compared to many options the per-unit amount of CO2 is relatively small. Concrete actually absorbs CO2 throughout its lifetime, helping to reduce its carbon footprint.

Concrete is an Urban-Friendly Construction Material

Heat islands are produced when land is filled in with structures, roads, and other infrastructures to take the place of open ground and vegetation. These paved surfaces absorb rather than reflect heat because they attract the sun and radiate it. Tall buildings trap heat and block airflow.

Concrete minimizes heat islands by playing a large part in the removal of heat. Concrete is lighter in colour and absorbs less heat, reflecting more light than dark-coloured materials, allowing it to maintain a low surface temperature.

Looking for the best concrete contractor in Vancouver?

There are many reasons to choose concrete for your next construction project. Whether you’re looking for a durable, versatile, or environmentally friendly material, concrete is a great choice. So if after all that you are now looking to talk with a top concrete paving contractor, contact Burnaby Blacktop in Vancouver to get started on your next project! Give us a call at 7788550513!