The durability of concrete is an important factor in the longevity of a structure, especially when it’s used for foundations, walkways, driveways and other elements that see a lot of wear and tear. It can last decades if it is properly cared for, but it’s also important to know what causes concrete to deteriorate and how to avoid it.
The first thing to keep in mind is that concrete has a wide range of different strengths and durability levels, depending on the environment it’s exposed to and the type of mix design it’s used in. For example, a structure that is primarily designed to be exposed to water might have different requirements than one that’s mainly designed to resist chemicals or other environmental attack.
Concrete can also withstand extremely high temperatures, which is why it’s often used in factories and panic rooms. This is a huge benefit because it means that buildings built with concrete will not be as vulnerable to fires.
Another key aspect of durability is permeability, which is the ability of a material to allow water in and out. Permeability can be controlled by using as little water as possible when mixing a concrete mixture, as well as by selecting aggregates with the correct size and shape.
Besides permeability, other factors that affect concrete’s durability include the proportioning of ingredients, the placing and curing methods used, the weather conditions and the type of soil it’s used on. The permeability of concrete can be improved by using high quality cement, good aggregates and adding an alkali-silica admixture to the concrete.
In the end, concrete is a strong, durable and affordable material that can be utilized for many applications. It’s a great option for architects and builders alike.
Durable Concrete
Despite being so durable, concrete still requires maintenance. It should be cleaned and reapplied every few years to prevent corrosion. This will help maintain its strength and keep it looking its best.
The most effective way to ensure that your concrete structures are durable is by following some simple steps:
Use an impermeable membrane over the top of your concrete walls to keep out moisture and prevent water from dripping in. This will help reduce deterioration, especially since moisture can only enter through the joints between concrete elements.
Concrete’s durability can be bolstered by the use of supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs) to increase the resistance to water, chemicals and acids. SCMs can be found in many types of industrial by-products and are typically added to the concrete mix to provide additional durability.
These supplemental materials are usually very beneficial to the durability of the concrete because they offer additional protection from environmental effects that could erode the structural integrity of the building. They can help to minimize the effects of rust and other environmental factors that may degrade or destroy the concrete, and can even improve its fire-resistance.
The durability of concrete can be increased by ensuring that the concrete is placed and cured according to a specified method, and by maintaining proper maintenance procedures throughout its lifecycle. This will increase the longevity of the building, which can save money in the long run and make it more environmentally friendly.