From driveways, patios, pool decks to winding garden paths, concrete has countless applications in construction. You might even have considered ordering some ready-mix concrete to use in your latest home improvement. To learn more about this versatile building material, take a look at the following frequently asked questions.

4 FAQ About Concrete

What is concrete made of?

While you may have thought concrete and cement were synonymous, concrete is actually a mixture of different materials, of which cement (the binding agent) is one of the main ingredients. The other materials include water, aggregates and admixtures which will make the concrete less permeable and increase durability of your investment. Pigmented minerals can be supplemented into the concrete to produce colored concrete from a wide spectrum color palette.

How long does it take to install concrete?

Ready-mix concrete starts out as a workable complex matrix, which must be poured into form work and smoothed to the desired finish. After a few hours, it starts to set, or harden. However, it takes 28 days for the concrete to cure to its design strength. Over the course of the next months, it will get harder and stronger.

Are there different strengths to choose from?

Concrete strength is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI), and different blends can be used to reach different PSI that are ideal for certain applications. For example, while residential uses call for around 3000 to 3,500 PSI, high-strength concrete used for structural integrity such as industrial projects or multi-story properties may be design to achieve 4,000 to 10,000 PSI.

Can it be recycled?

While ready-mix concrete surfaces can be used for years, when they’re finally ready to be replaced, they may be broken down into small pieces. Depending on the size of the granules, this aggregate can be used as fill material or for base material for your next project..

If you’re interested in incorporating this environmentally friendly material into your project, reach out to Childers Concrete Co of High Point, NC. They have been providing a wide range of concrete supplies to residential and commercial clients throughout the area, from ready-mix to stamps and wire mesh. With a tight-knit team of 20 employees, you can count on this company to treat you like a valued customer. To learn more about their offerings, visit the website, or call (336) 841-3111 today.