We walk, run and drive on it everyday, but have you ever though about how strong the concrete is beneath you?
Concrete strength boils down to the mix design, but what exactly makes the concrete strong and durable? Each mixture depends on its intended purpose, so different projects will require different strengths. Let’s take a look at the different strengths of concrete.
How Concrete Forms
The formation of concrete is actually fairly simple to understand. Concrete is a mixture of paste and aggregates, or it can also include rocks. The chemical reaction known as hydration hardens the paste, and it forms what we know as concrete. Obviously the uses for concrete are pretty amazing, and concrete and other construction projects are vital to our economy.
The Strength of Concrete
As mentioned earlier, the strength of concrete will depend on the project it is used for. Concrete strength is shown in Pounds per Square Inch (PSI), and normal concrete ranges from 2,500 PSI to 5,000 PSI. The weaker strengths of concrete can be used for grouts, and engineered design mixes can exceed 10,000 PSI.
Concrete PSI
- 2,500 PSI: This concrete is generally used for sidewalks, driveways and graded floor slabs. It is not meant to handle a large amount of pressure.
- 3,000 PSI: This is considered the standard strength for construction projects.
- 3,500 PSI: This concrete strength is meant to handle loads that are heavier than normal. Curbs and floor slabs generally use a concrete strength of 3,500 PSI.
- 4,000 PSI: Roadways use a concrete strength of 4,000 PSI.
- 5,000 PSI: This PSI is used for special projects that require high impact resistance and low wear rates.
There are also additional factors that can affect concrete: pump mixes, exposed aggregate mixes, entrained air mixtures and reinforcement.
Whether you have a project that requires 3,000 PSI or 5,000 PSI, you want to know you are in the right hands for any concrete project.
Concrete Construction in Maryland
PTG Enterprises is a full service commercial pavement contractor located just outside Baltimore, Maryland. We have been in the paving business for more than a decade and have managed hundreds of projects throughout the Baltimore-Washington area. Our crews work quickly and professionally.
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When you contact PTG Enterprises, you can expect a fair proposal, professionalism, and quality work. Unlike those other contractors, we care about you and your business.
Call us today at 410-636-8777 to learn more about concrete and other paving services. Also, look for us on Facebook and Twitter for even more information!
