When you need to order high-quality ready-mix concrete for your next big construction project, it’s important to know not all types of concrete are the same, and you will need to make sure the formula you order can perform well for your project. One of the main things to consider is if your project is for residential purposes or commercial use. There are some significant differences between commercial and residential concrete floors that will determine the type of concrete is best for your project.
Concrete for Residential Use
To understand the difference between residential and commercial concrete floors, you need to understand the purposes of each type of space. Residential buildings are meant for people to live in and conduct their everyday lives. The demands of residential concrete floors are relatively light due to minimal foot traffic and the fact that the heaviest objects the floor will need to support will most likely be pieces of furniture or appliances. Because of this, residential concrete can be less expensive than its commercial counterpart. You obviously don’t want to order bad concrete just to save some money, but you won’t have to splurge on a heavy-duty concrete formula designed to support large amounts of weight.
When it comes to choosing concrete overlays for residential projects, you’ll most likely be keeping it simple. You’ll often cover concrete floors with hardwood, vinyl, or carpeting in living areas and bedrooms. You can also stick to a simple protective overlay and polish for areas like the garage. More modern homes might choose a simple stain or polish overlay for a crisp and minimal appearance.
Concrete for Commercial Construction Projects
Commercial concrete floors will have very different demands than residential concrete floors. Commercial concrete floors need to be prepared for a high volume of foot traffic and be rated for much heavier weights. When you order concrete for commercial flooring, you will want to choose a higher-strength formula and provide reinforcement when you place the concrete. You can use fiber reinforcement or choose a steel grid reinforcement for additional strength and durability.
You will also need to make sure your commercial concrete floor can withstand abrasions, spills, and plenty of consistent foot traffic. To achieve this, you will need to treat your concrete with a high-quality finish or coating. Choosing the right finish for your concrete also provides a good traction that will make walking easy for people who work at or visit the business. Choosing a high-quality finish will also make the surface durable for an extended period of time with little need for maintenance.
Commercial concrete floors also tend to have more elaborate needs for decorative finishes. Whether it’s to complete a design theme or creatively display information, decorative finishes are quite common for commercial concrete floors. Epoxy terrazzo coatings are great for creating brilliant decorative finishes in commercial spaces while providing excellent durability. To get ready-mix concrete tailored to your project, contact Knight’s Redi-Mix division today!