Decorative concrete is a widely used construction material in the world. According to ACI, polished concrete flooring market share revenue in 2019 stood at 53.50%. Concrete uses are so common that people think of it as a part of everyday life. The material has been around for centuries. Its benefits can differ significantly depending on its nature. Below are five facts about concrete you did not know.
1) Concrete Serves as a Sound Barrier to Shield From Echoes
Concrete is so sturdy that it works as a sound barrier for sound waves traveling through the air. A concrete structure should be acoustically sound at every point. These concrete walls can act as barriers to absorb and dampen sound reverberations. This makes it an ideal material for use when constructing storage facilities or car garages.
2) Fiberglass-Reinforced Concrete is an Ideal Material for Lining Large Tanks
Due to its flexibility, fiberglass-reinforced concrete is ideal for lining large tanks. You can mold the material into any desired shape and volume you need for the tank. Concrete provides a durable and effective seal. It can also withstand stress and heavy loads, even when the tank’s contents are under pressure.
3) Concrete Can Be Used in Constructing Artificial Reefs
You can use concrete alongside steel or plastic to create solid walls and stabilize a structure. Another option is choosing other kinds of concrete to use underwater. The material can create a habitat for marine life by providing hiding places perfect for fish eggs to hatch.
4) Concrete Can Be Used in Place of Roofing Materials
Concrete can act as a roofing material on its own. It absorbs and diminishes heat from sunlight and rain. It is also well-suited for this purpose since it already has a high insulating capacity. Concrete is also an ideal material for this use due to its sound-proofing properties and its resistance to fire. It is safer than other materials.
5) Concrete Can Act as a Mild Form of Fire Retardant
It is imperative to ensure that walls, windows, and other parts of buildings do not continue to burn after extinguishing a fire. Concrete is an excellent way to keep these areas from catching fire again. It does this by absorbing the heat from the fire and retaining it, even after putting it out. For this reason, making structures out of concrete with materials that will withstand more intense heat and flames, such as steel, is essential.
Concrete is a versatile material. There are many uses of decorative concrete that you may not know. It is important to use concrete structures in large industrial and commercial settings. To learn more about concrete commercial and industrial uses, give us a call today.