Concrete masonry units are an excellent choice in construction compared to wood or light gauge steel framing. A composite material made from mixing water, sand and aggregate, concrete is a popularly-used material in construction because it ticks all the boxes for contractors when it comes to strength, sustainability, cost, performance and practicality.
Let’s look at why concrete-based construction is a good choice for almost any building project.
Low maintenance
Once you’ve poured concrete and given it a chance to set, it requires almost no maintenance. Unlike other surfaces, it doesn’t require any protective coats or chemical treatments. Concrete can remain intact for decades without any additional care. Other choices like steel and wood will require regular painting and coating to protect them from the elements.
Cost
Wood is the cheapest material up front, but you’ll pay for it in the long run with upkeep costs. Concrete is a one-off investment that will last for decades. There’s a common misconception in the field that steel gauge framing is less expensive than concrete, though research has shown it’s actually up to $12 per square foot pricier than concrete. Contact trusted concrete suppliers and get quotes to better understand the price of concrete in your local market.
Durability
Concrete buildings are made to last. In fact, these buildings may last three times longer than other leading options. Time erodes the integrity of other materials, whereas it actually makes concrete stronger. It doesn’t rot, chip or rust, and concrete is resistant to water, fire and wind. Earthquakes are also less likely to damage concrete buildings. This is one of the leading reasons why people choose concrete-based construction for their projects.
Environmental benefits
Unlike many other building materials, concrete is excellent for avoiding waste. That’s because, when it’s no longer needed, the material can be broken down and used again elsewhere. It’s typically recycled as aggregate and then used as a sub-base material in projects such as parking lots and road beds.
You can also source this material locally from concrete suppliers. The major parts of concrete—cement, water and aggregate—will likely all be available in your local area. This reduces shipping and pollution while supporting local businesses. On top of this, concrete is excellent for energy efficiency, reducing demands on heating and cooling systems by up to 8 percent.
Versatility
Concrete is strong when hardened but malleable when freshly mixed to create a variety of surfaces, textures, shapes and forms. Concrete’s versatility means it can be used in many different ways, e.g., pumping, spraying, grouting, pouring, hand-applying and more. If you prefer a different appearance, concrete can easily be transformed to appear like wood, brick or other surfaces via stamping and molding.
Do you need a trusted concrete supplier for your next project? Then the experts at Beavertown Block Co., Inc. are here for you. We’re a third-generation family-owned and -operated concrete manufacturer that can meet all your concrete needs. Give us a call today to find out more and request a free estimate.