The Basics of Concrete: Description, Damage, Reinforcement and Repair

Even though developments in the construction industry have given way to other types of building materials such as metal, PVC and vinyl, there is nothing quite like the durability and effectiveness of concrete. Due to its high resistance to weathering, concrete can last for hundreds or thousands of years under proper upkeep.

The primary materials that make up concrete are aggregate, cement and water. The aggregate consists of fine materials like sand, and coarse materials like crushed limestone or granite. Cement acts as the binder of these materials under a specific wet condition. Concrete hardens as a result of the chemical reaction between water and cement known as hydration (the conversion of an oxide into a double hydroxide or the bonding of water molecules and the crystalline compounds of another material).

Most structures are not made up of pure concrete. While concrete provides a structure a strong compressive strength, it is very poor in resisting tension and therefore requires reinforcement. Concrete slabs, beams and columns usually consist of metal bar reinforcement, which resists tension.

Like other structural components, concrete also deteriorates over time. Whether it is a pavement or a vertical structure, it will slowly wear down after years of facing against natural and human elements. Deterioration may even start within a concrete block or slab due to the corrosion of the reinforcing bars.

The reinforcing bars within a concrete block or slab corrode for several reasons, including poor vibrating that leads to creation of voids or permeable spots. Before the deterioration develops, a concrete repair Atlanta and other cities in the country can provide is necessary. A concrete repair may involve dismantling of the existing pavement and replacing both the reinforcing bars and the concrete slab. However, building standards has to be observed when doing concrete repair as this may weaken the foundation that maintains the balance of forces among existing structural components.

Pavements that are constantly used as walkway may eventually suffer from a diminished surface. A concrete resurfacing Atlanta builders offer in their long list of services can remedy the problem. This involves the application of fresh concrete on the damaged surface to restore its smoothness and stability.

If you would like to read more about concrete, concrete repair and concrete resurfacing Atlanta pavements need, you can visit HowStuffWorks.com. This website provides an overview of how concrete repair works and how long newly repaired concrete will last. It also provides detailed information about specific damage on concrete structures and the most ideal method of repair to be used.

Manuela Jelen - About Author:
If you have questions, please visit us at www.UniqueConcreteGa.com for complete details and answers.

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