09 Feb, 2015
Concrete is used for a variety of building projects, but what is the reason for its popularity?
When you plan your commercial build, you need to be sure that you are utilising the best materials to ensure a strong, durable and well-built structure that will stand the test of time.
Concrete is far from a modern invention, with the Egyptians credited as being the first major users of concrete in 2,500 BC.
According to the Cement Concrete & Aggregates Australia (CCAA) website, concrete is the most widely used construction material in Australia, with a great flexibility that can be adapted to suit varied projects. For example, concrete is the material of choice for a variety of commercial building projects such as office buildings, while it is also used for infrastructure projects and residential building projects.
Concrete provides a number of pragmatic benefits and here we examine them to see why concrete is used so widely.
Concrete has a long life span, of roughly 100 years. Not only this, the strength of concrete actually increases with age.
This incredible strength means that concrete buildings are extremely durable and do not require much costly maintenance.
The durability and strength of a concrete structure ensures a fit for purpose building that is safe and secure, and offers resistance to break-ins.
Concrete also provides resistance to events such as extreme temperatures, pest or fungal attacks.
Using appropriate formwork, concrete can be used to suit any design and shape to create attractive and aesthetically pleasing finished builds.
There are many different types of finishes that can be used on a concrete building’s exterior walls to create the effect you want.
Concrete provides additional safety benefits. It is a non-combustible material, making concrete naturally fire resistant.
Due to its natural fire resistant properties, concrete structures minimise fire risk for the lowest possible cost, while not requiring ongoing maintenance.
Concrete does not emit harmful gases or fumes, and results in a highly safe finished build.
Concrete has relatively low manufacturing costs, which means a relatively low purchase price compared with other building materials.
Concrete is also readily available is most areas, eliminating expensive transport costs.
The low maintenance needs of a concrete structure also result in a building that has a low cost life-cycle.
The tilt-up construction method allows for more rapid project completion than traditional construction , as precast concrete tilt panels are formed and tilted into place. The method is highly efficient while also being cost effective and of a high quality.
Working with a builder who specialised in precast concrete construction means that a project can be completed rapidly, to an extremely high quality while remaining at a minimum cost.
At the end of a concrete structures long life-cycle, it can be crushed and the material used for other projects, such as aggregate for roads.
The benefits of concrete are long standing and proven.
When considering your next commercial build, it is wise to talk with a commercial builder who specialises in concrete construction. They will be able to create an economical, durable and strong building which will provide you with a sound investment that is fit for purpose and aesthetically pleasing.
For further information or to discuss your next commercial building project, please call Adam on (08) 9248 5272.
