Every type of building material has its own advantages. Some of the factors that are considered include cost, sustainability, safety, and durability. While some products are more durable, their price puts them out of the running. Wood may be less expensive, but it depletes our natural resources and is not appropriate for every project.
Concrete stands out among the other materials available. It is affordable, energy-efficient, safe and durable.
Benefits of concrete when comparing to other materials
Easy Maintenance
Always a good selling factor, concrete floors have little maintenance necessary. Wood needs periodic repainting and treatment against insects. While concrete may be a bit more expensive on the initial installation, less upkeep makes it a good choice over time.
Resistance to Elements
Wood is easily damaged by moisture and becomes less viable for construction projects. Concrete can withstand extremely strong winds and is not damaged by water or snow.
Fire-Proof
Concrete is actually fireproof compared to wood, which will easily go up in flames. The damage caused by fire and the water used to extinguish it makes it unusable. Concrete walls and floors will continue to stand during a fire and will protect the contents of the building.
Energy
The ability for concrete to retain heat makes it a perfect choice to save on the expensive HVAC bills. That means cost savings as well as an ecological benefit. Steel requires about three times more energy to produce than concrete. So, for sustainability, concrete wins.
Durability
It is hard to beat concrete for its longevity. Wood needs to be repaired and repainted and then replaced. Concrete lasts for years.
Rust and Rot
Steel is prone to rust and wood to rot. Concrete is just fine. That means less Ottawa concrete repair and replacement costs.
Adaptability
Wood needs to be cut and adjusted, and steel must be custom-made to fit into many spaces. Concrete is limited only by the ability to fit the forms into the space. That means any unique design is possible when you turn to concrete as a building product.
Less Waste
Concrete can be produced in exact amounts to not worry about waste. When it is ready to go away, it can be crushed and recycled into other projects. It is hard to say that about different materials.
Reflective
Since it is light in colour, it can reflect solar radiation. This reduces the amount of air conditioning necessary for everyone to remain comfortable through the hot summer days.
Soundproof
Concrete reduces sound travel. So it is excellent for confidential work or to catch a nice catnap.
Contact us for concrete flooring in Ottawa!
It now appears to be an easy choice to use concrete in your next project, given how well it withstands against other building materials! If you are planning a construction project, contact us to discuss the use of concrete and its applicability to your needs.