Concrete is the most widely used construction material because of its many unique advantages. Here are just a few:
- Economical
The production costs for concrete are low compared to other materials. It is also widely available across the world and inexpensive compared to other materials such as steel and polymers. The ingredients that make up concrete are cheap – water, aggregates and cement.
- All-weather
Concrete is able to set and harden at a regular ambient temperature meaning concrete can be used whatever the weather. To optimize the mix, admixtures can be applied.
- Shaped
When concrete is in liquid form, it is flexible and can easily be poured to form different shapes and sizes in construction. It is also adaptable to be cast into all sorts of complex shapes and patterns.
- Low energy
The production of concrete is more energy efficient than manufacturing steel, for example. Steel requires between 3 and 10 times more energy consumption that making concrete. For all your Ready Mix Concrete Kent requirements, visit a site like VMC Ltd, suppliers of Ready Mix Concrete Kent
- Water resistant
Concrete, when compared to other materials, can withstand more exposure to water without deterioration. This makes it the perfect choice for applications that require being submerged in water, such as dams, waterfront structures and pipelines, for example.
- High temperature
As well as water resistance, concrete can take higher temperatures than both steel and wood. This makes it ideal for use as fireproofing for steel and in areas where high temperatures and blast conditions are necessary.