There are some pavements that just need to be concrete constructions. Concrete is a long-lasting paving material that has exceptional load-bearing properties. However, what many people do not realize is that not all concrete is the same. In fact, there are multiple grades of concrete in Houston that can be chosen for specific applications.
What Are the Basic Components of Concrete in Houston?
Typically, concrete is a mixture of cement, lime, sand, crushed stones, and water. The proportion of each ingredient in the mix affects the properties that the concrete will have, including its compressive strength. Compressive strength is usually measured in pounds per square inch, which is expressed as PSI. In turn, the mixture’s PSI rating is the primary factor that concrete contractors in Houston use in the grading system.
How Many Grades of Concrete in Houston Are Available?
Although concrete contractors can use other definitions, most contractors recognize eight basic grades of concrete. These range from M10 to M65; the prefix is simply an abbreviation for mix. An M10 grade is the type of mix that a concrete company in Houston might use for a pathway or residential patio. Concrete contractors in Houston might use an M15 mix when constructing short flights of steps or pavement curbs. An M20 mix might by chosen by concrete contractors to construct a foundation for a backyard shed, sidewalk, or residential driveway. Roadways and concrete parking lots in Houston typically require a higher-quality mix. About the lowest grade most concrete contractors will use for these applications is M30. However, if a concrete parking lot or roadway will support heavyweight vehicles, contractors often recommend at least an M40 mixture.
How Does a Concrete Company in Houston Select the Proper Grade of Concrete?
Choosing the best grade of concrete for a project requires concrete contractors in Houston to perform a series of complex calculations. There are also various factors that they must consider.
1. Will the compressive strength of the mix be sufficient to support the loads that will be placed on the pavement? For example, an M25 concrete mix is rated at 3,625 psi, and this is usually sufficient for a concrete parking lot in Houston.
2. What will lie beneath the pavement? Concrete pavements can often be installed directly on top of the ground, but adding an aggregate base may increase the pavement’s load-bearing ability.
3. Does the concrete need to be reinforced? Rebar and reinforcing mesh can result in a pavement that can bear heavier loads than unreinforced concrete of the same thickness.
For more information about concrete in Houston, contact Marathon Solutions Group. We are an experienced, well-respected paving company serving commercial clients throughout the area. Our services include the construction and repair of concrete parking lots, ramps, ADA features, curbs, and sidewalks, asphalt paving and resurfacing, pavement repair, asphalt sealcoating, industrial services, asphalt milling, marking removal, bollard installation, parking lot striping, thermoplastic markings, and parking lot signs. We have an exceptional reputation for workmanship, service, and professionalism. For a free quote, email Sales@Marathon-Solutions.com, call 800-879-1147, or fill out the online form.
