Debunking Some Common Myths Related To Concrete

by Brittany W. Content Writer

Concrete is one of the most commonly used materials due to its durability and longevity. It's used to construct buildings, pavements, parking lots and much more. It’s also quite cost-effective, though it needs concrete repairs in Denver from time to time.

Most of us have heard of it but may have misconceptions about what it is, can do and other stuff. If you plan to use this material for any purpose, then it’s important to get a few things straight about it.

Let’s debunk common myths about concrete so that you can make the most out of it:

Concrete Is Impermeable

Many people have a misconception that concrete is so solid that nothing can pass through it. But even the densest concrete blocks have some pores in them. Water, other liquids and vapors can seep through these pores.

To reduce pores, you can prepare with concrete with a low water-to-cement ratio, chemical admixtures and well-graded aggregates. Apply sealers to prevent water from seeping through the surface.

Reinforced Concrete Does Not Crack

Structural reinforcement can prevent cracking but not absolutely. The material can crack since it’s weak in some areas with tension. The reinforcement ensures that the structure holds together despite cracking. When concrete cracks, its tensile force is transferred to the steel reinforcement to withstand higher loads.

Cement Is Concrete

Cement and concrete are different materials. Cement is one of the ingredients used to mix concrete. The latter is used to construct buildings, pavements, etc. People tend to use the words interchangeably but these materials are not at all the same.

Calcium Chloride Is Antifreeze Substance

Calcium chloride is not an antifreeze agent but reduces the time needed by concrete to set in freezing temperatures. Using it like an antifreeze agent is likely to do more harm to concrete than good.

Use actual antifreeze agents for concrete to prevent it from freezing and reducing its strength. Alternatives like insulating blankets and enclosures can also help.

Acid Can Help Strip Sealant

Using acid to strip sealants from concrete is a huge mistake. Acids don’t just affect the sealant but also the concrete. You should use a solvent or a sealant stripper instead to remove the layer.

The Surface Is Cold

Many people think that concrete is cold and list it as a reason to construct buildings in warm regions. But concrete can absorb and retain heat very well, making it warmer than tiles.

If you’re thinking of underfloor heating, then using concrete is a good option. It needs care during the initial stage. The material needs time to cure to maintain the finish before you can turn the heating system on.

High Compressive Strength Means High Durability

High compressive strength does not equate to high durability. It’s an important factor but durability depends on how concrete interacts with external factors. These external factors include freeze-thaw cycles, alkali-silica reactions and corrosion of steel

Reducing concrete’s permeability can increase its durability considerably. That’s why it’s important to seal concrete surfaces.

You Can Lay It Any Time Of The Year

Specific conditions have to be met to ensure that concrete dries and hardens properly. Laying it when the temperature is below the freezing point or when it’s incredibly hot is not best. Experts consider spring or fall the best seasons for laying concrete due to the mild weather.

Once Flat And Level, Fresh Concrete Will Remain So

Changes in moisture and temperature can cause horizontal movement in fresh concrete laid flat and level. The surface may curl at the edges due to the same reasons.

It’s Easy To DIY

The tonnes of pre-mix concrete and DIY videos online might make using the material simple. But it takes some skill and experience to get the installation right. You need to consider various factors like set time, weather, curing, etc. during projects.

You can try using concrete yourself for small jobs like patching small holes. But leave large projects like building pathways in commercial landscaping in Denver to pros.