How Is Concrete Created and What Makes it So Strong?

If you’re thinking about hiring a concrete contractor to help you complete your home or commercial property renovation project, you might be wondering how concrete is created. How is it so strong, and what are some of the ways it can help your property? Below is everything you need to know about how concrete is created and what makes it such an effective building material.

Materials

According to the Portland Cement Association, the typical concrete mix consists of 10 to 15% cement, 60 to 75% aggregate, and 15 to 20% water. While this is a basic composition, your concrete contractor can inform you of different materials comprised within the concrete itself. For instance, while some concrete mixes might use an aggregate made of sand and crushed rock, other concrete fixes might be comprised of mostly gravel. This type of mix allows concrete to be spread and cover a wide range of areas, but still maintain a tough exterior once hardened.

Mixing Process

Concrete also takes quite a while to mix, but this can be done by hand or by a professional concrete mixer. Most industrial-sized projects take advantage of professional mixers, allowing the concrete to be thoroughly combined before pouring. This mixing process ensures an even consistency and prevents bubbles from forming in the concrete. For smaller projects, you can also easily mix concrete using a wheelbarrow and a shovel or mixing device. In either case, concrete mixing is a simple and affordable process that can quickly create concrete that is durable.

Hardening Process

There’s a reason concrete takes quite a while to finish. That’s because concrete has to thoroughly dry before it’s ready for use. For many companies, this extra time might seem like a hassle. However, the drying process is what makes concrete so tough. During the concrete process, not only will your concrete dry, but your concrete contractor might also want to add other materials such as asphalt to the top layers of your concrete. The slower and more thorough the process, the better your concrete will stand up to the test of time. You can ask your concrete contractor about the best ways to ensure your concrete dries quickly and sets for years to come.

These are just some of the many reasons why concrete is as tough and convenient as it is. Whether you’re a homeowner or business owner looking to improve the look and durability of your property, concrete can help. Give us a call today to get started on your project!