Concrete is one of the most commonly used construction materials in the world – and for good reason. It’s strong, versatile and relatively affordable, making it a go-to choice for everything from foundations to roofing. But like any material, it has both strengths and weaknesses. If you’re planning a build or renovation, consider these pros and cons before choosing concrete.
The pros of using concrete
Durability
When properly mixed and cured, concrete can last for decades. It’s able to resist fire and pests, and it’s also able to carry heavy loads without cracking. It also doesn’t rust or rot like metal and wood.
Versatility
Concrete can be transformed into various colors, shapes and forms. It can be polished, stamped or stained – sometimes replicating the look of natural stone. This makes it possible to use in a diverse array of projects.
Affordability
Compared to natural stone or porcelain, concrete is also relatively affordable. When building a paved driveway or textured stone wall on a budget, it can be a popular choice of material. On-site mixing and bulk cement buying are popular ways to make concrete cheap.
Recyclability
At the end of its life, concrete can be crushed and reused as an aggregate in new concrete mixes or as a base later in roads and landscaping. This guide delves more into the concrete recycling process.
The cons of using concrete
Discoloration
Concrete can develop a dark and blotchy appearance as it ages, which can be seen as unattractive. Not using calcium chloride additives (used to accelerate setting) may prevent this however.
Weight
Concrete is notoriously heavy. When used for roofing, it often needs to be reinforced with steel bars, which can add to construction costs. When used for walls, substantial foundations are often needed.
Carbon footprint
While it’s possible to recycle concrete, this environmental benefit is often cancelled out due to the huge carbon emissions produced from cement production. As a result, those wanting to keep the construction process green may want to consider alternative solutions such as ground screw foundation instead of concrete foundations for lighter structures.
Costly repairs
Concrete is very durable, but not indestructible – when it does break it can be expensive to repair. Issues like cracking and spalling can be prevented by making sure the right mix ratio is used and by curing concrete.
Is concrete right for your project?
Concrete is a good choice if durability is a priority, but it needs to be professionally mixed and installed to prevent costly repairs. It can be an affordable alternative to stone or porcelain that can be shaped and styled to mimic these materials. However, concrete’s weight needs to be factored in and the extra cost of reinforcement could make it less cost-effective for some projects.
When it comes to sustainability, concrete can sometimes be seen as bad for the environment due to its energy-intensive production. However, it can be recycled, so it shouldn’t entirely be dismissed in green builds – especially now that there are greener methods of making concrete.
Photo by Declan Sun:
