Adding steel mesh to concrete is the best way to reinforce it and to make it stronger.
When you think about strength in construction, two things come to mind and concrete and steel. That’s because these are some of the strongest materials that we use no matter what we’re building. Concrete on its own is credibly strong and durable, making it the ideal material for many uses, from slabs to walls to foundations and more. Sometimes, however, you need a little bit more strength because there are situations where concrete can fail. So how do you make something as strong as concrete even stronger? With steel, of course. Adding steel mesh to concrete is the best way to reinforce it and to make it stronger. Read on to learn more about how.
Does All Concrete Need To Be Reinforced?
There are many uses for concrete that don’t require reinforcing with steel mesh or any other type of reinforcing material. If the concrete is intended to carry a heavy load, however, reinforcing is probably necessary. This includes uses such as driveways that are going to have heavy vehicles, foundations for buildings, and footings or columns.
How Does Steel Mesh Make The Concrete Stronger?
Steel mesh increases the tensile strength of the concrete. It helps to hold concrete together, and it helps to prevent cracking that could decrease the strength of the concrete.
Isn’t Rebar Better?
Rebar is a stronger option than steel mesh, but not by much. Steel mesh is also strong, and it has the added benefit of being very flexible. You can easily bend it to the needed shape or cut it down to the needed size. Rebar also requires special skills for installation, and steel mesh does not.
How Much Mesh Do You Need And How Do You Work With It?
As stated above, installing steel mesh does not require any special skills, knowledge, or tools. Steel mesh comes in sheets or rolls, and it simply needs to be cut to fit in the cavity dug for the slab or in space where the wall will be poured. The wire mesh should then be installed in the center of the concrete – so install it in the center of the wall frame or pour the bottom layer of a slab and then lay it on top. If the mesh is installed correctly, it will not rust because it is protected from oxygen. One word of caution: steel mesh can be heavy and sharp, so always were protective gloves.
Concrete Visions Will Get The Job Done Right
Concrete Visions has been working with clients for over 25 years. Our G&M Services installers are certified with the industry’s major firestop product manufacturers. As part of our firestop service, we can assess abnormal field conditions and, with the manufacturer’s technical support assistance, provide engineering judgments in a timely fashion to comply with contract specifications. Our Field Mechanics undergo ongoing training, including mandatory monthly safety meetings, weekly Toolbox Talks where safety and equipment information is shred, and trainings on safe work standards and safety best practices.