Reinforced Concrete – Your Best Bet for a Strong Foundation

What is Reinforced Concrete?

Reinforced concrete is a construction material made from a mixture of cement, aggregate, and water, with steel reinforcements added for extra strength. This combination makes for a much stronger material than plain concrete, which makes it ideal for foundations.

How is Reinforced Concrete Made?

The steel reinforcement bars are placed in the concrete before it is poured. They are arranged in a grid-like pattern, and the concrete is poured around them. The concrete and steel reinforcement bars are then left to cure, or harden.

Once the concrete has cured, the steel reinforcement bars are locked in place, making the concrete strong and durable. The steel reinforcement increases the strength of the concrete, allowing it to withstand both tension and compression forces. This makes reinforced concrete an ideal material for construction projects where high strength and durability are required, such as foundations, bridges, and buildings.

Why is it the Best Option for Foundation?

Reinforced concrete is a good choice for foundations because it is strong, durable, and easy to work with. Foundations are the most critical part of any structure, as they need to support the weight of the entire structure. Therefore, a powerful material like reinforced concrete ensures the foundation will not crack or crumble over time and will continue to support the weight of the structure.

Reinforced concrete is also easy to work with. It can be poured into any shape needed, and it dries quickly. This makes it convenient to lay the foundation quickly and allows for easy repairs if needed.

Overall, reinforced concrete is a strong, versatile material that is a viable choice for any kind of structure.

Drawbacks

While concrete is a strong building material, it has some drawbacks.

Cracking

One of the biggest drawbacks is that it is susceptible to cracking. Cracks can form in reinforced concrete when the material is improperly mixed, placed, or cured. They can also occur due to external factors such as weathering or ground movement. Once a crack forms, it can allow water and other chemicals to enter the concrete, leading to further deterioration.

Corrosion

Reinforced concrete is also susceptible to corrosion because the steel reinforcement bars are exposed to the elements. Over time, the steel can rust, causing the concrete to deteriorate gradually. This is especially concerning in areas with high humidity or saltwater.

Despite its disadvantages, reinforced concrete is still widely used in construction. With proper care and regular maintenance, it can last for many years.

Cost of the Project

The cost of a reinforced concrete project depends on various factors, including the area that needs to be covered, the types of raw materials used, and the amount of reinforcement required. The cost of the concrete itself and the specific type of concrete used will also influence the price. It’s best to contact your masonry repair contractor for an estimate of your reinforced concrete project.

Lifespan

Reinforced concrete is built to last, with an average lifespan of around 100 years. However, certain factors can affect this lifespan. For example, the corrosion of steel rebar is a major concern. If the steel rebar within the concrete begins to corrode, it can significantly reduce the material’s lifespan.

Extreme weather conditions can also impact the lifespan of concrete. For instance, exposure to freezing temperatures can make the material brittle and prone to cracking.

Nevertheless, reinforced concrete is a durable material that can withstand significant wear and tear. With proper care and maintenance, it can easily last for 100 years or more.