In many construction applications, reinforced concrete is mixed with steel to make it stronger, more durable and less likely to fail. For construction beams in garage and home foundations, strength and durability are crucially important, making concrete grade beams extremely popular.
Most concrete suppliers in Regina provide concrete grade beams to new construction projects, meaning the contractor you hired for a construction project is probably already very familiar with these products. If you are curious to learn more about some of the benefits of reinforced concrete grade beams, continue reading below.
Not your average concrete
Compared to regular concrete, reinforced concrete grade beams have more strength and durability. Because the concrete is fabricated with steel, it’s able to withstand high pressure before it becomes damaged or weakened. Much of the stress in a building is transferred to the steel, which takes the pressure off the concrete. This allows reinforced concrete to carry much more weight than regular concrete. Whether for garage, home or larger scale construction projects, beams from a concrete supplier in Regina are a great way to offer assurance of long-term strength and durability. Over time, it also lowers the cost of regular concrete maintenance and repair, meaning the slightly higher upfront costs pay off over time.
In addition to having additional strength, reinforced concrete beams are also more flexible than many of the alternatives. During the construction process, the flexibility in reinforced concrete grade beams helps the structure take shape and decreases the tension in the foundation. The high degree of elasticity in reinforced concrete allows the material to be deformed without worrying about any serious consequences.
A major unintended cost in construction is when materials break during installation. A regular beam, in other words, might get installed and then break once weight is applied. Obviously this costs the construction project extra money as well as increases the time it takes to complete the project. Many contractors prefer the added flexibility of reinforced concrete grade beams because less damage is expected during moving of the materials and during the installation process.
Considering costs
One of the possible disadvantages of using reinforced concrete grade beams is the cost involved in the fabrication process. Incorporating steel fibers into a cement mix is very labor intensive, which makes it slightly more expensive than some alternative beam materials. While the original cost may be somewhat higher than the alternatives, savings can also be found in other areas. As previously mentioned, using concrete grade beams means the foundation will last longer and require less maintenance and repairs. There are also fewer unintended costs of breaking materials during transport and installation compared to other materials. In sum, it might cost a little more, but over time the price is essentially comparable.
Regardless of all the other advantages of using reinforced concrete grade beams on construction projects, strength is still the number one reason to go with them. The compression strength is much higher than just about any other material, and over time, that added strength will result in a stronger foundation. The material is also more resistant to common elements that damage structural integrity, such as moisture infiltration. For the strongest building material, consider reinforced concrete grade beams from your local concrete supplier in Regina. Book today and receive a quote for any services.