Reinforced concrete is often preferred over alternative construction materials like masonry, steel, and timber due to a variety of factors. It possesses numerous advantageous properties that make it a popular choice in building and construction projects.
Why Select Reinforced Concrete as Construction Material for a Structure?
The choice of reinforced concrete for building construction is influenced by several factors. Firstly, economy plays a significant role, as reinforced concrete structures are often cost-effective compared to other construction materials. Additionally, the suitability of reinforced concrete for both structural and architectural functions is another important consideration. It offers versatility in design while providing the necessary strength and stability. Another advantage is its low maintenance requirements, which can reduce long-term costs. Availability of materials is also a factor, as reinforced concrete components and materials are commonly accessible in many locations. Furthermore, the rigidity of reinforced concrete provides structural stability, making it suitable for various construction applications. Lastly, its fire resistance properties make reinforced concrete a preferred choice in terms of ensuring safety and minimizing fire hazards in buildings.
Economy of Reinforced Concrete
When considering the cost of a structure, various factors come into play. The primary consideration is typically the overall cost, which encompasses material costs, labor expenses, and construction time. In the case of concrete floors, their thickness is usually smaller compared to steel structures. This is because floors are designed as flat plates, slabs, or beams, with girder or joists fitting within the same depth. Consequently, this reduces the overall height of the structure, which is often desired, especially when compared to steel floors. By decreasing the height, the wind force acting on the building is also reduced due to a smaller exposed area. Furthermore, a lower building height allows for savings in cladding and the installation of electrical and mechanical risers.
Construction time allocation can have a significant impact on the cost of a structure. Contractors need to allocate a specific budget for construction and can only recoup their investment once the building is completed. Therefore, it may be more cost-effective to prioritize fast construction, enabling an earlier return on investment. This approach may involve additional costs for formwork and materials, but the benefits of faster completion outweigh these expenses.
Reinforced concrete materials are widely available and can be used and casted as needed. On the other hand, steel elements require ordering and fabrication, often requiring partial payment in advance to initiate the work at a steel fabricating yard. Standardizing the design and forming processes can be an effective strategy for reducing overall costs. For example, using the same formwork for all columns in the structure or employing lower concrete strength for upper storeys can lead to cost savings in reinforced concrete construction.
Suitability of Reinforced Concrete for Structural and Architectural Functions
Reinforced concrete offers the possibility of integrating architectural and structural functions into a single system. By utilizing this material, fresh concrete can be molded into various forms and shapes, allowing for the incorporation of desired textures through different finishing techniques. In addition to its primary role of supporting loads, a reinforced concrete structure can also deliver aesthetically pleasing appearances. The size and shape of each reinforced concrete member can be carefully controlled by the designer, offering flexibility and control in the overall design.
Fig.1: Reinforced concrete support loads and provide aesthetically appealing appearances
Low maintenance of Reinforced Concrete Structures
Reinforced concrete structures typically require less maintenance than steel and timber structures, particularly when dense and air entrained concrete is utilized for exposed areas and adequate drainage is established.
Fig.2: Substantially old water tower reinforced concrete structure, still serve its purpose without the need of major maintenance
Availability of Materials for Reinforced Concrete
Reinforced concrete is highly recommended for construction in remote areas due to the easy availability of its constituent materials. Sand, gravel, and cement, which form the base of concrete, can be found widely and procured without much difficulty. Additionally, steel bars, essential for reinforcing the concrete, can be delivered to the construction site with relative ease. This stands in contrast to the challenges associated with transporting steel elements for construction purposes. Therefore, the use of reinforced concrete proves to be a practical and feasible choice for building construction in remote locations.
Fig.3: Reinforced Concrete Materials Available Widely
Rigidity of Structures
Reinforced concrete structures are known for their excellent rigidity, which helps to minimize the occurrence of vibration issues. Due to their inherent strength and stiffness, reinforced concrete structures are less prone to experiencing frequent vibrations.
Fire resistance of Reinforced Concrete
Structures must be able to withstand fire long enough to allow for building evacuation and prevent the loss of lives, while also controlling the fire. Concrete structures generally possess inherent fire resistance, lasting anywhere from 1 to 3 hours without requiring additional measures to enhance their fire resistance. Conversely, materials like timber and steel do not possess this inherent resistance and thus necessitate fire protection to withstand fire for a specific duration. This particular characteristic highlights a significant advantage of reinforced concrete over other construction materials.
Fig.4: Reinforced concrete structure suffered from extreme fire and still stand and has not collapsed