Reinforced Concrete Contractors Blog

In construction work, different types of beams are used, which are made of steel, timber, or reinforced concrete. Beams support large buildings like bridges, high-rise buildings, etc. Beams are made to withstand shear forces and bending moments to protect the structure from collapsing. Intense beams ensure the safety of the building and are efficient for domestic, commercial, or industrial purposes. In this blog, we shall discuss different types of beams and their usage in construction. If you plan to construct a residential building or an industrial warehouse, continue reading the blog to learn about beams and beam structures.

Why are beam structures essential?

Different beams and beam structures are essential as they help increase a building's structural support, protect it from structural settlement, and improve its attractiveness. If used efficiently in construction work, beam structures can significantly improve their ability to absorb shear forces and bending moments.

What are the different types of beams used in construction?

The following section will discuss different types of beams used in construction.

Fixed beams

Fixed beams are most commonly used in structures among different types of beams. It is also known as a clamped beam and is supported at two ends. The fixed beams' rigid nature helps carry dynamic and static loads. Fixed beams are ideal for structures that require protection against bending moments and minimum structural deflection. These beams are used in bridges and large buildings like industrial warehouses.

Cantilever beam

The cantilever beam is a solid and rigid structural element in a building or structure. It is fixed through reinforcement or anchoring at one end and free on the other. A cantilever beam is exposed to vertical loads on its free side. The free side or arm-like extended part of the cantilever beam can bend downwards depending on the vertical load on the structure. Due to such downward bending, the upper fiber of the free end is subjected to tension, and the lower end of the beam is subjected to compression. As the free end of the cantilever beam is exposed to more tension, more reinforcement is provided in that section. 

Supported beam

Of all the different types of beams, supported beams are the most common and widely used in construction. The name of the structure suggests the simplicity of the beam’s making. It is supported at both ends, and load is carried on the rest of its parts. Its easy construction process makes it the first choice for domestic or small-scale industrial construction. The most common use of simply supported beams also includes beds of machine tools due to their load-bearing capacity.

Overhanging beam

Overhanging beams are similar to supported beams. However, this type of beam extends both ends beyond its support. The extended part of such a beam helps to carry additional weights at the overhanging section.

Continuous beam

A continuous beam supports more than two points. Its design helps distribute loads on multiple support points. Walls, columns, or other structured elements support a continuous beam. The distribution of loads in multiple points increases the beam's structural ability, which helps reduce bending moments.

Tie beam

A horizontal beam connecting two or more columns and structural elements is called a tie beam. The function of the beam is to tie together all the structural elements and prevent them from falling apart. This type of beam is generally used in constructing houses and industrial structures. Tie beams are used in a building to maintain structural rigidity and stability. Reinforced concrete is often used to build tie beams at the ground level to connect all the columns and create a platform for the building. It also helps to prevent differential settlement of the building structure.

Hip beam

A hip beam is used to build a building's roof. It is placed between the ridge board and the outside corner of the roof. A hip beam supports a hip rafter and is mainly used in residential building roof construction.

Conclusion

Beams are essential to a building as they help maintain its structural integrity and rigidity. Different beams, including fixed beams, supported beams, cantilever beams, etc., play a crucial role in a building based on their efficiency. Reinforced Concrete Contractors have a team of experts who can help you with all kinds of reinforced concrete solutions. Contact us today for a personalised quote.

Different types of reinforced concrete are used in construction work to withstand bending, shear, torsion, etc., forces. Reinforced concrete (RC) has revolutionised the art of construction by increasing structural durability and its life cycle. In this discussion, you'll learn about different types of reinforced concrete and recent developments in this area. The advantages and disadvantages of these types of RC will help you determine the most suitable type for your construction work. Different reinforced bars and materials, such as steel fiber, polymer, etc., are used in such concrete to extend its structural integrity. For domestic usage, reinforced steel bars manufacture concrete slabs or reinforced beams.

Precast concrete

Precast reinforced concrete, or simply precast concrete, is manufactured away from the construction site in a factory using a mould. Reinforced bars are used to make strong and durable precast concrete.

Advantages

If a strict construction timeline is your priority and you want to build a durable structure in harsh weather, precast concrete is your best option. You can use precast concrete walls, slabs, beams, or columns to reduce time and labor costs in construction.

Challenges

Precast concrete offers limited flexibility for design and customisation unless a specific direction is provided to the manufacturer. It can also break or be damaged during transportation, another challenging factor.

Steel fiber reinforced concrete

Steel fibers of different shapes and sizes are used in RC structures. Reinforced concrete is a strong material but can be vulnerable to bending or shear forces. Unevenly distributed steel fibres help protect the concrete from developing cracks and reduce its brittleness. The use of steel fibres is widely practised, and commercially sold steel fibres are expected to grow by 20 per cent worldwide (Liew and Akbar, 2020).

Advantages

Steel fibres have replaced steel mesh in reinforced concrete, providing design flexibility. Steel fiber-reinforced concrete offers superior resistance against compression, torsion, or shear forces on the concrete. You can build concrete structures with less material, which provides resistance and durability similar to traditional concrete.

Challenges

The length and size of steel fibres must be appropriately calculated before they are used in different types of reinforced concrete. A fixed standard size is not suitable for all concrete structures. Another challenge is that steel fibers can sometimes protrude from the concrete surface, undermining its aesthetic values.

Prestressed reinforced concrete

Concrete structures are more likely to develop cracks under heavy compression, torsion or shear forces. To avoid this vulnerability, you can use a prestressed reinforced concrete structure. Prestressed concrete uses pre-tensioned steel reinforced rods before the concrete is cured. It strengthens concrete strength against tensile forces.

Advantages

Prestressed RC is more durable and resistant to shear force than traditional reinforced concrete. Due to its high load capacity, it is used in large construction projects such as bridges, rail tracks, concrete piles, etc.

Challenges

However, this type of concrete may cost you more at the initial stage and more for maintenance.

Carbon fiber reinforced concrete

The construction industry has used carbon fiber in RC since the 1970s. The material has been used to construct walls or partition walls. Carbon fiber-reinforced concrete increases its tensile strength and improves resistance against cracks.

Advantages

One of its advantages is the higher load capacity of carbon fiber-reinforced concrete. Due to the strong material quality of carbon fiber, it has a higher load-bearing capacity than traditional steel rod-reinforced concrete. Carbon fiber also safeguards concrete structures from corrosion or rust, as it does not rust like steel rods. Due to its lightweight characteristics, thin walls can be constructed without developing cracks.

Challenges

However, if you plan to build a carbon fibre-reinforced concrete wall, you must be prepared for a comparatively high construction cost. This type of reinforced wall also makes it challenging to modify once cast, making it difficult for further maintenance.

Conclusion

Reinforced concrete is one of the most solid and durable elements of construction. However, its brittleness makes it vulnerable to torsion, compression, or shear forces. Continuous development takes place to help you construct a strong and well-built structure. Modern developments suggest using steel or carbon fibre in RC structures to make them torsion or crack-resistant. Prestressed concrete is also being manufactured to manage high compression force and is used to carry heavy loads. Whatever your purpose, a reliable RC contractor is essential. At Reinforced Concrete Contractors, we can deliver reliable construction services to you. Contact us today for a personalised quote.

External links

Liew, K.M. and Akbar, A., 2020. The recent progress of recycled steel fiber reinforced concrete. Construction and Building Materials, 232, p.117232.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2019.117232

What are the different types of reinforced concrete beams?

A reinforced concrete (RC) beam is a crucial element of a concrete structure that carries loads vertically and faces forces such as bending, shear, torsion, vibration, etc.

At the time of construction, different types of reinforced concrete beams are used according to their utility. The following discussion will include an account of various kinds of RC beams so that you understand how and why these beams are used in concrete construction. Before we start our discussion, some crucial terms must be explained to understand the debate better.

Important terms

Tensile strength- The maximum mechanical stress a material can withstand before it breaks if pulled or stretched.

Bending moment- A bending moment occurs in a concrete structure like a beam when an external force is applied, causing the structure to bend.

Ductile failure- In a reinforced concrete beam, when the steel reaches the point of failure sooner than the concrete, it is called ductile failure.

Now, let's discuss the different types of reinforced concrete beams and how concrete beam design varies accordingly.

Over reinforced beam

An over-reinforced beam consists of excess steel reinforcement that exceeds the natural requirement of steel reinforcement in the concrete beam. Due to the presence of reinforced steel in more significant numbers, the over-reinforced beam can carry more loads.

The benefit of over-reinforced beams is a longer service life due to their structural solid integrity.

However, in an over-reinforced beam, the concrete reaches the crushing point before the reinforced steel, which causes a sudden fracture of the beam. It is often dangerous for the concrete structure as it does not develop cracks showing signs of structural failure.

Under reinforced beam

In an understanding of reinforced beams, the ratio of steel is less than the required, and if it is under pressure, the steel reaches its crushing point faster than the concrete. This type of beam undergoes ductile failure and develops multiple cracks.

Unlike over-reinforced beams, sudden fracture is not seen in under-reinforced beams. This allows building occupants to safely evacuate as multiple cracks appear before shattering the beam. Engineers use this beam type as it is cost-effective and gives warning before structural failure.

Balanced reinforced beam

The concrete and reinforced steel are placed in a balanced reinforced beam to simultaneously reach their maximum tensile strength. The reinforced steel and concrete reach their breaking points at the bending moment.

These reinforced concrete beams are considered riskier as they do not develop cracks that would allow occupants to evacuate the building safely. The concrete's sudden structural failure makes it more dangerous. This type of reinforced concrete beam is suitable for buildings in moderate seismic zones and can be used for residential and commercial buildings as well.

Singly reinforced beam

A singly reinforced concrete beam places Steel bars near the tension zone. This type of reinforced beam is used where the load on the beam is comparatively lighter and the concrete is strong enough to handle it.

Singly reinforced concrete beams can be cost-effective but are less resistant to increased pressure. If the load exceeds its carrying capacity, this beam type can develop cracks at the tension zone. Singly reinforced beams may not be suitable for areas prone to seismic activities as they offer lower ductility.

Doubly reinforced beam

Doubly reinforced beams use reinforced steel in both the compression and tension zones. They are more robust than singly reinforced concrete beams and can withstand pressure. Because they have reinforced steel at both tension and compression zones, doubly reinforced beams can be suitable for carrying greater loads. This beam type is ideal for heavy structures and resisting more prominent bending moments. These beams have higher resistance to cracks and structural durability, which helps improve the structure's appearance.

However, it may attract more cost than the singly reinforced structures and may not be suitable for lighter loads.

Conclusion

Understanding different types of reinforced concrete beams will help you in your construction work, regardless of your profession or work requirements. You will now be able to identify the requirement of specific types of concrete beams in different sections of your building.

However, it would be better to consult with expert engineers with years of expertise in construction. They can better advise you on the type of beams your building requires.

At Reinforced Concrete Contractors, our expert engineers, with years of expertise in the field, can offer you the best idea for building a robust building with appropriate reinforced concrete beams.

6 Tips to Choose the Right Reinforced Concrete Contractor

A contractor should have years of experience and expertise in concrete work. His top priority should be his flexibility to assist with your construction work.

Construction work can be tricky and complex if you do not hire a knowledgeable professional. Hiring a trustworthy and knowledgeable professional should be your priority. If you plan to select a concrete contractor, we have the top 6 tips to guide you. 

Table of contents

Define your requirements

Ask for a one-to-one conversation

Look for local contractors

Check background works

Ask for a quote

See if the contractor is trustworthy

How do you find a dependable and trustworthy concrete contractor?

We understand that finding a good and dependable contractor requires a lot of energy and time. Our guide to choosing a quality concrete contractor will help you add value to your construction work.

Define your requirements

Before looking for a reinforced concrete contractor, define your criteria. This will make the selection process much more manageable.

Decide if you have a budget constraint when choosing a concrete contractor. If so, look for a talented but relatively new one. Choosing a new contractor does not mean you must compromise on quality. There are new contractors with promising capabilities who are eager to provide you with quality services. Try to learn more about their service qualities, materials they use, professional knowledge, years of experience and others.

If you do not have financial constraints, you should go for concrete contractors with expertise in their field. They may charge you higher than any new contractors in the industry but will deliver value and expertise for your work. If you prefer quality work, then choosing a professional would be right.

Ask for a one-to-one conversation

How do you determine the level of professionalism and expertise in the work? One-to-one conversation can be an excellent way to do so. Ask for a date or time to meet with your potential construction contractor or talk with them over the phone.

Ask relevant questions to verify their knowledge of construction. A detail-oriented professional will be able to solve your query patiently. Ask them -

What is the ideal cement-water ratio you use for reinforced concrete construction?

Which type of steel should be used in the construction?

What type of concrete should be used for the ground condition of the construction site?

If you feel satisfied with his answers, ask him to survey the construction site. However, if your potential contractor does not have proper knowledge about reinforced concrete construction, he may not be able to answer your question correctly.

If he avoids your question or fails to give you the correct answer, change your direction and move to the next potential contractor.

Look for local contractors

You should look for a reliable concrete contractor by asking your friends and families. They should be able to provide credible information about the building constructor they worked for.

If they worked with a local constructor, you would learn about him from many local projects he had undertaken.

Local contractors also have sound knowledge of the local soil quality, so they can better advise you on the type of reinforced concrete construction suitable for your site. Local contractors may also give you a discount on the contract price as they will have to bear comparatively lower transportation and other costs.

Check background works

To verify their expertise in reinforced concrete construction, you can ask them for references to their past works, which may be around the local area. You may directly contact the customers and evaluate their satisfaction for yourself.

You can ask specific questions to past customers to understand the potential constructors’ professionalism. Your questions may include -

How did the contractor perform the task?

How much time did it take to be completed?

How helpful was his advice for your construction work?

Do you consider his quality of construction work value for your money?

These questions will prevent you from investing your time and money in the wrong person. Performing a background check will also assist you in negotiating the price of your construction and getting the best deal for you.

Ask for a quote

If satisfied with the contractor's previous work, you should ask for a quote. After surveying the construction site, he may consider special requirements for the job and provide you with a quote for the service.

Once you receive the quote, you can compare it with other contractors and their service quality.

When deciding on the best quote for the work, consider your priorities.

If quality matters to you, not the price, opt for the best quote that promises excellent service quality.

If you are under budget constraints, look for the lower quote any reinforced concrete contractor offers.

However, if you accept the cheapest quote, you may not get the best value for your money. It may indicate the use of lower-quality materials during the work, and the constructor may not have expertise in the field.

See if the contractor is trustworthy.

If you are satisfied with the service quote, your ability to trust the contractor should be the final criterion for selection.

Think of your interaction with him and how seriously he took you as a customer. Evaluate his answer and advice for your work. Think how authentic he seemed while answering your questions.

If you consider his responses and advice valuable and feel you can trust him with your reinforced concrete construction work, you will experience much more comfort working with him.

Conclusion

Hiring a professional contractor is a complex process that depends on your preferences and criteria. Choosing a local contractor is necessary, as he has expertise and knowledge of the local soil. On the other hand, choosing a reliable contractor who promises quality work at a favorable price may also work for you.

Structural Elements

When it comes to structural elements subjected to stresses, such as beams, columns, and slabs, it is essential to ensure they are properly reinforced. This is crucial to guarantee their ability to bear the loads imposed upon them safely. However, for our discussion, let us focus on concrete bases.

Slabs and Driveways

Reinforcement is generally considered beneficial in concrete construction, and reinforcement, particularly fibers, is standard among ground workers. In the vast majority of circumstances, the introduction of reinforcement is advisable, as it can have a positive impact on the concrete's performance.

Fibers are typically incorporated into the concrete mix during the mixing stage and have minimal effect on pouring or laying the concrete. This reinforcement method is often the preferred choice for ground workers, as it provides a convenient and effective way to enhance the concrete's properties without significantly altering the construction process.

It is rare to encounter situations where reinforcement could harm a concrete base. In most cases, the benefits of incorporating reinforcement, such as improved strength, durability, and crack resistance, outweigh any potential drawbacks. Therefore, reinforcement, particularly fibers, is generally considered a prudent and widely adopted practice in concrete construction.

Cost of materials

The cost of reinforcement can vary depending on the materials utilized and the required reinforcement for the project. Generally, fiber reinforcement will increase the cost of ready-mixed concrete by approximately 10%—a modest price to pay for the product's benefits.

The selection and quantity of reinforcement materials can significantly impact the overall cost of a construction project. Fiber reinforcement, in particular, has been shown to enhance the performance and durability of concrete, often justifying the relatively minor increase in material expenses. When planning a project, it is essential to carefully consider the tradeoffs between cost and the long-term advantages offered by different reinforcement options.

Proper Installation

Improper installation of reinforcement can compromise the structural integrity of concrete. Rebar and mesh require proper support to ensure complete encapsulation by the concrete; otherwise, potential failure or cracking of the concrete may occur in the future if the steel begins to swell due to rusting. In contrast, using fiber can be considered an additive to the concrete mix without the associated risks.

Conclusion

Reinforced concrete presents many advantages that render it the material of choice for numerous construction endeavors. The augmented tensile strength, enhanced load-bearing capabilities, and improved durability of reinforced concrete are well-established. However, the judicious selection of materials and meticulous installation are paramount to optimizing these benefits.

Whether constructing a modest garden shed or laying a driveway, comprehending the appropriate utilization of reinforced concrete can significantly impact the project's longevity, safety, and overall success. Therefore, when engaged in a concrete-based undertaking, it is prudent to consider the potential advantages of reinforcement. In all likelihood, the incorporation of reinforcement will prove advantageous.

At RCC, we offer the perfect concrete solution for your project's success. Our diverse range of concrete types caters to a wide array of requirements. This blog will decisively explore each concrete type's unique features and benefits, empowering you to make an informed choice that aligns flawlessly with your project's specific needs.

10MM CONCRETE - THE SUPERIOR CHOICE

This concrete composition is unparalleled in delivering a flawlessly smooth finish, making it the perfect solution for applications that do not demand heavy-duty concrete. Extensively utilized in cavity wall construction, the smaller stone size ensures the concrete's effort flow, simplifying the construction process. If you require intricate formwork, this concrete is the undisputed choice, offering unmatched versatility and performance.

SPECIALTY CONCRETE: THE SOLUTION FOR EVERY NEED

Specialty concrete is the definitive answer for any construction challenge. These high-performance mixes are engineered to tackle the most demanding applications with unwavering precision. Whether you require lightning-fast setting times, superior flow properties, or unparalleled strength, a specialty concrete solution meets your every need. 

Forget about compromising or settling for less – specialty concrete empowers you to conquer even the most complex construction projects. These advanced materials are designed to deliver tailored performance, leaving no room for ambiguity and uncertainty. Embrace the power of specialty concrete and unlock a world of possibilities for your next venture.

FOAM CONCRETE

Foam concrete is superior for insulation, floor leveling, and void filling. Its exceptional thermal and sound insulation properties make it an unparalleled option for commercial and residential projects. Furthermore, its low density provides outstanding strength while allowing for easier removal, making it the ideal solution for void filling around pipework in road foundations. 

RAPID SET CONCRETE

Rapid-set concrete is the solution for projects that demand swift turnaround. This concrete is the unequivocal choice for repairing roads, installing posts, or any other task that requires a swift return to service. It sets in a matter of hours without sacrificing strength or durability. Forget about lengthy curing times – rapid-set concrete is the decisive answer for projects that need to be back in action quickly. 

REINFORCE CONCRETE

Reinforced concrete is the premier choice for engineering high-performance structures. By incorporating steel reinforcement, this concrete type delivers unparalleled tensile strength, elevating the structural integrity of buildings, bridges, and any construction project that demands the utmost durability and load-bearing capacity. Reinforced concrete is the backbone of modern construction, providing the strength and resilience necessary to support the most ambitious architectural designs. Its superior performance makes it an indispensable material for architects, engineers, and construction professionals who demand the highest standards of quality and safety.

WATERPROOF CONCRETE

Waterproof concrete is the definitive choice for projects where water resistance is critical. This specialized concrete is engineered to defy water penetration, making it the ideal solution for substructures, basements, and any other application demanding exceptional protection.

At RCC, we collaborate with the industry's leading waterproof supply companies to provide our clients with the most advanced waterproof concrete solutions. We stand behind the reliability of our waterproof concrete, delivering uncompromising water resistance for construction needs.

SELF-COMPACTING CONCRETE

Self-compacting concrete is the superior choice for construction. It eliminates the need for manual compaction, flowing seamlessly into every corner of the formwork solely through its weight. This makes it ideal for intricate molds and heavily reinforced structures, guaranteeing a flawless finish without voids or honeycombing. 

This high-performance concrete delivers unparalleled results, ensuring a smooth, uniform surface without labor-intensive processes. Its self-leveling properties ensure complete coverage, leaving no room for imperfections. Contractors can trust Self-Compacting Concrete to deliver exceptional quality and efficiency, revolutionizing complex construction projects.

If you have a project coming up and require advice on the type of concrete to use, contact our specialist team today.

The Importance of Having Good Foundations

Constructing a robust and reliable foundation is crucial for the safety and longevity of any structure. The foundation serves as the bedrock, literally and figuratively, upon which the entire building rests. Without a solid foundation, the structure is vulnerable to sinking, tilting, or even collapse, putting lives and property at risk.

When planning a new construction project, the appropriate foundation type must be selected after carefully assessing the soil conditions and the anticipated load-bearing requirements. Shallow foundations, such as footings, rafts, and pad foundations, are typically used in scenarios where the surface soil can adequately support the structure. These foundation types are common in domestic projects like walls, steps, and small-scale buildings.

On the other hand, deep foundations are necessary when the surface soil is not strong enough to bear the load. This is often the case in areas with poor soil quality, high water tables, or unstable ground conditions. Deep foundations, such as piles or caissons, are driven or drilled deep into the earth, reaching more stable and load-bearing soil or bedrock layers. These foundation types are essential for supporting larger, heavier structures, such as high-rise buildings, bridges, and industrial facilities.

The appropriate foundation system must also be selected, taking into account factors like the available space, the expected stresses and vibrations the structure will endure, and the overall environmental conditions. Thorough site assessments, soil testing, and engineering analyses are crucial in determining the most suitable foundation design to ensure the long-term stability and safety of the structure.

By investing in a well-designed and constructed foundation, builders and homeowners can rest assured that their structures will stand the test of time, withstanding the various challenges of nature and the elements. A strong foundation is the cornerstone of any successful construction project, providing a solid and reliable base upon which the entire building can flourish.

Constructing Strong Foundations: Unleashing the Power of High-Performance Concrete

Regarding foundations, the demand for superior load-bearing capacity is paramount. In such scenarios, high-strength concrete emerges as the go-to solution, offering unparalleled structural integrity. These applications often involve piling projects, where reinforced concrete columns and steel is essential. Pile foundations may also be necessary for walls that require the creation of deep trenches, ensuring a robust and stable base.

Another type of deep foundation, caissons, is particularly suited for structures built below water level, such as bridges. These specialized foundations provide support and stability, even in challenging underwater environments.

Selecting the appropriate concrete strength is crucial to the success of any foundation project. A lower-strength mix can often suffice for shallow foundations, such as C15/Gen 2 for step foundations, C20/Gen 3 for slab foundations, or C25 for footings. However, much more robust concrete mixes are necessitated for construction that demands the highest level of support.

One of the most commonly used high-strength concrete is C40, which is particularly well-suited for applications with heavy traffic on the surface. However, for projects that require the absolute pinnacle of support, more exceptional concrete mixes are available, such as C50, C55, and C60. These ultra-high-performance concretes offer unparalleled strength and durability, making them ideal for the most critical foundation requirements.

At Reinforced Concrete Contractors, we pride ourselves on offering a comprehensive range of concrete solutions tailored to deliver the exceptional performance your project demands.

Choosing the suitable concrete can make all the difference, whether you're embarking on a domestic renovation or a large-scale commercial development across London, Surrey, Sussex, and Kent. Our team of experienced concrete specialists is here to guide you through the process, ensuring you get the perfect mix to suit your unique project needs.

For domestic projects, you might require a high-strength, durable concrete blend that can withstand the rigors of everyday use, such as for driveways, patios, or foundations. Alternatively, a more specialized blend with enhanced aesthetic appeal could be ideal for decorative features or exposed concrete finishes in your home. Our experts will assess your requirements, considering factors like foot, load-bearing capacity, and desired visual appeal to recommend the optimal concrete solution.

On the commercial side, the demands are often more complex. You might need a concrete mix to support heavy machinery, accommodate expansive floor plans, or even meet specific fire-resistant or environmental regulations. Our knowledgeable team will work closely with you to understand the unique challenges of your commercial project, whether it's a multi-story office building, a complex, or an industrial facility. We'll then tailor our concrete recommendations to ensure the utmost reliability, longevity, and compliance with standards. With our guidance, you can be confident that you'll have the right concrete solution to bring your vision to life.