Concrete is one of the strongest building materials available today but for it to be as strong as possible, it does need to be reinforced. Here’s some great information about concrete reinforcement.

While concrete is a strong building material, it does need to be reinforced. There are a number of reasons for doing this. Firstly, reinforcing is done in order to strengthen the concrete. It also minimises the risk of the concrete slab curling or displacing (moving undesirably). It should be noted that reinforcement will not stop concrete from cracking but it will hold the cracks together tightly, so that they do not widen or get worse.

The reinforcement is most commonly made from steel and comes in a mesh form. It is commonly called “reo” by concretors and tradies. However, there are now some new synthetic alternatives that are just as effective. The reinforcement needs to be in the right place to work properly and it is placed within the concrete formwork before the concrete is poured.

Because of the problems that can occur by incorrectly used or placed reinforcement within the concrete, the reinforcing materials should be laid by a professional concretor as part of the concreting job. Ensure that your concretor is qualified, licensed and insured and that they are very experienced with all types of concrete reinforcement. You will find that the cost of the reinforcing materials is included in the overall quote.