A building and its foundation are only as strong as the concrete used to build them, which is why concrete additives are so crucial in construction. Concrete additives are minerals or chemicals mixed into water and cement and hardened to form concrete. Ready-mix concrete is a mixture specially formulated for each client’s needs, and it can contain any type of additive. Here are some of the most common and why contractors choose them.

Common Concrete Additives & What They Do

Air-Entrainment Additives

This type of ready-mix concrete includes minuscule air bubbles, which strengthens concrete in cold climates, stabilizing it and preventing cracking. It creates a batch that is highly resistant to moisture and freezing temperatures.

Water-Reducing Additives

As the name implies, these additives use a reduced amount of water to create a mixture that’s strong on cement. It’s used in difficult-to-apply situations, such as low-slump concrete overlays and bridge decks. 

Corrosion-Inhibiting Additives

Construction sites near the coast often rely on corrosion-inhibiting additives in their ready-mix concrete. Chloride salts found in the ocean air and water can cause steel and other materials to rust. This type of additive is commonly used for building parking garages and bridges.

Accelerating Additives

It can be challenging to work with cement in cold conditions because the water in the mixture freezes, causing the concrete to become unstable. Accelerating additives speed up the batching process to prevent this from occurring. 

No matter what type of additives you need in your ready-mix concrete, the specialists at Weeks Sand & Concrete in Cameron, NC, will help. The locally owned and operated company provides clients throughout Moore County with a range of materials, from concrete and mortar sand to sand clay and topsoil, and their experts will work with you to find the best products for your project. Regardless of your project’s size, their team will then deliver your ready-mix concrete or other concrete product to your work site upon request. Call (919) 499-4272 or visit them online to request an estimate today.