Types of Concretes and Their Uses

It’s well known that concrete is one of the world’s most used building materials. Considering its extreme level of versatility in its use, portability and affordability; it makes sense. Coming in a variety of types, with most of them being largely comprised of similar substances, it can be hard to see why there are so many concretes on the market. However it’s those small and often subtle changes from formula to formula that make all the difference. At BellMont we believe it’s important that people stay as informed as they can about the products they’re using, so they can make better decisions towards achieving their goals.

That’s why we’re taking the time to talk about some of the most common kinds of concrete and the sort of work they are suited for.

• Normal: When someone mentions the word concrete this is probably the kind that first jumps into your head. This is probably close to, if not, the most common kind of concrete used in the modern world. It is categorized by the ratio of cement to aggregate and water being 1:4:2 respectively. Normal concrete is mostly used for pavements, driveways and other things that don’t need to be under a heavy load, or for decoration. The reason it is used in decoration and aesthetic work is that it is quite workable and it can be stamped easily.
• High Density: These kinds of concrete are the densest you will find on the market, being categorized by any concrete that weighs 3000 - 4000kg/m3. It is used in construction of nuclear power plants, x-ray rooms, and anything else where radiation may be involved; as it offers protection from it.
• High Performance: This is another widely used concrete and is defined by how workable it is, its early strength, and overall longevity. High performance concrete is the closest thing to something that can do any job, being used in the widest range of situations
• Lightweight This is a special kind of concrete that is used primarily for protecting steel beams. It is also effectively used in bridge work, for long spans of concrete deck that needs to be poured. It is categorized as any concrete that weighs less than 1920kg/m3.
• Asphalt: This is probably something that most people don’t associate as being a concrete, but it is in fact one of the most common used worldwide. Asphalt concrete uses Asphalt, in conjunction with other aggregates in its mixture, and that is how it is categorized. The Asphalt that is present within the mix is what gives this cement its distinct look. Typically Asphalt is usable within an hour or so of being poured which is why it’s a popular choice for roadworks, car parks, runways, etc.
• Polymer: This is a special kind of concrete, which uses polymer as an aggregate in its mix.  Polymers are used because it reduces the amount of void in the concrete. Because of this, the overall strength of the concrete is improved, as well as helping it with waterproofing. There are a few different ways that the polymer material can be introduced in the concrete, and the uses vary between them, however in broad terms this kind of concrete is used commonly in remedial works, underwater construction, and bridges.
• Limecrete: Arguably the oldest form of concrete to be used, lime concrete, or limecrete, uses lime instead of cement in its mixture. Lime is a naturally occurring substance, as such its carbon footprint and overall impact on the environment is reduced when compared to other kinds of concrete. It is largely used decoratively for things such as floors, domes, vaults.

That about covers our quick look into the most common kinds of concrete and their common applications. We hope that from now, you’ll have a little better understanding of some of the products that get used on your site, and you’re better equipped to make a decision.