While you are likely familiar with the utility of concrete and cement in construction projects, you may not be aware of the importance of rebar in complementing these materials. It is a steel bar that can be incorporated into cement or concrete to reinforce them and add to a building's overall strength. To understand why it is critical in constructing stable, long-lasting structures, refer to the guide below.

How Rebar is Made

Rebar is usually made of scrap steel, which is molded into long bars. These bars come in various diameters and can be as long as 60 feet. A rebar fabrication specialist can cut the bars to the appropriate length.

Different types of rebar suit different projects. Carbon steel rebar is the most common due to its affordability and strength. In situations where corrosion may be a threat, galvanized rebar coated with a protective barrier of zinc is preferred.

Why Rebar Matters

Concrete and cement crack with time. Rebar makes the materials more resistant to failure and provides the structural security needed to keep such cracks from posing a risk. Changes in heat impact both steel and concrete similarly, so the two substances complement each other perfectly by expanding and contracting in unison.

Think of the parking garage you use during the workweek. This building must support large amounts of continually shifting weight. Glass fiber reinforced polymer rebar, which has extra strength, is ideal for such structures. It keeps the building secure even if the concrete cracks, helping to prevent total structural collapse. 

If you aren’t sure what type of rebar you need, consult a local steel supplier. L. Levine & Co., Inc. provides construction and contracting companies throughout Cincinnati, OH, with top-quality steel. They have been in business for over 70 years and offer a comprehensive and versatile array of products. These professionals take pride in their offering, and they know that their clients trust them to provide safe and useful goods. Find out more about their custom services on their website. To discuss your steel needs, call (513) 471-5900.