Concrete - The Energy-Friendly Building Material Recognized for its Beauty and Durability

History of Concrete

Cement, which is a naturally occurring substance, has existed and has been used in simple forms since 3000 B.C. by the Egyptians, Chinese, and Greeks. Cement chemically activates with water and forms crystals that attach themselves to rock and sand forming the hard substance that is called concrete. Concrete is a beautiful durable product as witnessed, for example, by the ancient structures that are still standing in Rome and Greece. In 1824, Portland cement was developed by burning finely ground chalk with divided clay in a lime kiln. Portland cement, the product that is still used today, is much stronger than its predecessors, which previously used crushed lime stone cement. Then in 1849, concrete began to be reinforced with steel for additional strength. Read more about the history of concrete and concrete technology at www.concretecontractor.com.

Benefits of utilizing concrete in a paving project

Concrete is recognized not only for its durability but also its beauty.  Concrete applications are limited only by the imagination. Forms, stains, stamping and acid washing allow concrete to be formed into a myriad of shapes and colors.

Concrete structures are low maintenance.  Concrete continues to harden over time and is not adversely affected by moisture. A concrete driveway requires minimal maintenance for 20-30 years if properly installed, cured, and finished. Joints are purposely cut into concrete to control cracking. Concrete is not as susceptible to movement as asphalt; however, our planet is an ever changing surface, and some cracking in concrete will develop.

Concrete is an energy-friendly building material.  Concrete is made locally in the United States with marginal amounts of foreign oil consumed in the process. Concrete is comprised of natural substances including 41% gravel, 25% sand, 18% water, 10% cement, and 6% air. Concrete is also recyclable! Old concrete that has been ripped out is crushed and used in new concrete projects as a compactable base for roads and sidewalks.

You can read more about the benefits of concrete construction at www.concreteresources.net.