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What exactly makes concrete so strong? What is it that gives concrete its exceptional properties, including its versatility, durability, strength and resistance to wear and tear?
Aggregates are a core component of concrete. Not only do they play a key role in giving the material these sought-after properties, but they are also one of the main factors in determining the concrete’s type.
Depending on the type of aggregates that are used, the concrete can be thin with a smooth finish, or extremely robust and able to withstand the most extreme environments.
So, if you want to incorporate concrete into your upcoming project, it is critical that you understand aggregates and how they work.
That’s why we’ve shared our complete guide to concrete aggregates. Keep reading to find out what concrete aggregates are, the different types of concrete aggregates, and their wide range of benefits.
What are Aggregates?
Aggregates are, by far, the primary component of concrete mixtures. In fact, between 60 to 80% of concrete’s total volume comes from aggregates.
How are aggregates used in concrete?
To form concrete, aggregates are mixed with cement and water.
Aggregates are extremely varied, both in their shapes and sizes, and the materials that they are made from.
They can range from fine sand to large coarse rocks, and be made from sand, gravel, crushed stone, slag and more.
Why are Aggregates used in Concrete?
Beyond simply proving concrete with the majority of its volume, aggregates are what give the concrete its defining properties.
Firstly, aggregates are used to give concrete its strength and durability. These materials are what give concrete its strength and stability, and also help to reduce the risk of shrinkage and cracking when the concrete dries.
What’s more, aggregates are also key to achieving the concrete’s overall performance. The choice of aggregate type, material and proportioning are what set different types of concrete apart. So, thanks to aggregates and their versatility, concrete can range from liquid floor screed, to heavy-duty tarmac.
What are the Different Types of Aggregates used in Concrete?
The types of aggregates that are available vary greatly, and come in a wide range of shapes, sizes, materials, densities, strengths and porosities.
The two main types of concrete aggregates are: coarse aggregates and fine aggregates.
Coarse aggregates are larger than 5mm in diameter. They also consist of stronger materials, such as gravel, crushed stone and slag. As such, they are used to create stronger concrete, which is designed for use in more heavy-duty settings.
In comparison, fine aggregates are smaller than 5mm in diameter. Thanks to their smaller size, finer aggregates are widely used in high-finish concretes, such as floor screed.
What are the Benefits of using High Quality Aggregates?
In addition to the different types and properties of aggregates that you can buy, aggregates also come in a range of different price points.
Although you might be tempted to opt for a cheaper variety of aggregates, there are a number of critical benefits to be gained by investing in high quality aggregates.
Here at iMix Concrete, we only use the best, highest quality aggregates in our concrete mixes, so you can be sure you will get the best concrete for your project.
These include:
- Improved strength
- Higher durability
- Improved workability (making it easier for the concrete to be poured and shaped)
- Reduced risk of shrinkage, as the concrete dries
- A more uniform, flawless appearance for the concrete
- An extended lifespan for the structure
- Reduced likelihood for repairs
Comparatively, choosing low-grade aggregates can result in a concrete structure that is weaker, less durable, has a less neat finish, and has a shorter lifespan. As a result, the investment in high quality aggregates is well worth it in the long run.
At iMix Concrete, we exclusively use the highest quality of aggregates in our concrete. This ensures that all of the concrete that we supply is of the very highest standard, ensuring success for all of our clients’ projects.
So, if you would like to find out more about how concrete aggregates work, or to arrange the supply of concrete or concrete aggregates for your upcoming project, get a quote for your order by contacting our team.
