Concrete seems as though it’s the same building material that has been used at construction sites for years. However, the advancements in the overall components and types of concrete are plentiful in recent years, especially advances in environmentally friendly products. Here’s how concrete has changed over the last 50 years into a better, more durable product.
How Concrete Was First Used
Used in ancient Greece as a means to build various structures, concrete was used to build archways, tombs and other structures, some of which are still in existence today. The primitive mixture was composed of volcanic ash, quicklime and pumice that were crushed and combined to form concrete. Over the years, concrete has evolved into a more spreadable mixture, perfect for a wide variety of jobs, both residential and industrial.
The Evolution of Concrete
There are many forms of concrete today, utilized for a multitude of different building needs. Based on the needs of a project, there is likely a form of concrete perfect for the job. Variations of concrete include:
- Modern concrete
- Self-consolidating
- Eco-friendly
- Limecrete
The variety of concrete types is impressive, as scientists have developed different uses for the material over the past 50 years. Eco-friendly practices have helped reduce waste material in landfills. By recycling older concrete and combining it with asphalt, reusing what would have just been disposed of, this proves to be a more environmentally friendly process.
Improvements to Concrete
The production process for concrete has improved over the years, allowing for new compositions to be formulated, so concrete can remain a versatile component at building sites. By adding light, already moistened aggregates to traditional aggregates, the curing process of concrete has evolved, improving the overall structure and durability of the product. With the invention of high-performance concrete, engineers and contractors can rely on this product for bridge projects, where durability is especially essential. In the home, concrete has also proven to work well as a component for kitchen countertops, with concrete counters increasing in popularity throughout recent years.
The Reliability of Concrete
Concrete has been proven, over the years, to have lasting strength and versatility. Utilized in the workplace and at home, concrete has provided a strong base to build upon. In perfecting the composition, materials and process, concrete has evolved into a go-to component for numerous uses, including:
- Driveways
- Roadways
- House exteriors
- Basements
- Flooring
- Counters
Consider concrete as a main building component for your next project. It’s durability and reliability are key factors when when it comes to structural integrity, and the integrity of your project isn’t just for looks, safety is a main concern as well. You need a product that will stand the test of time and offer numerous benefits to your project.