If you’re preparing to take on a new building process, understanding the different materials on the market is crucial. This will ensure your project offers clients the most favorable results possible. Lightweight insulating concrete is one of the newest options available for roofing decks. Learn more about what it is and how it will suit your needs.

What Is Lightweight Insulating Concrete?

Much like its name suggests, lightweight insulating concrete is a lighter form of the typical, heavy concrete used by builders to create structures. This material comes in three types: aggregate, foamed (or cellular), and autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC).

Aggregate concrete comes from expanded minerals, while foamed concrete comes from a preformed foam mixture. AAC, on the other hand, is comprised of superfine aggregates. The primary reason builders use any of the three options is that they allow for internal curing.

What Is Internal Curing?

Internal curing refers to a process that continually provides the concrete mixture with additional water. This occurs when the lightweight insulating concrete absorbs water from its surrounding elements, thus preventing cracking, shrinking, or other types of premature damage. The naturally porous nature of the material makes it ideal for those environments in which dehydration is a concern.

What Are the Benefits & Drawbacks?

Beyond the potential for internal curing, many builders utilize this material because it’s durable, less likely to place stress on the structure, resistant to fire, and easy to transport to and from the building site.

The only significant disadvantage of this material is the drying time. Because it’s so porous, it takes longer than traditional materials to set. 

If you’re planning a commercial construction project and seeking top-of-the-line materials, look no further than Pro-Crete Systems of Florida. Based in Largo and serving builders and developers throughout Pinellas County, this company offers a broad range of concrete solutions. With over 30 years of experience with everything from lightweight insulating concrete to cast decks and underlayment, they have the resources needed to ensure a successful project. Give them a call today at (727) 526-8090 to discuss your needs and visit them online to learn more about their services.