Concrete has traditionally been the preferred material in the construction sector, being used to make houses, buildings, foundations, bridges, fences, roads, pavements, etc. However, as people become more environmentally aware, the need to explore new alternatives to replace concrete as the main building material started to soar.

The utilization of concrete-like materials dates back to the year 3000 BC when Egyptians combined mud with straw, resulting in a mixture that resembled adobe. Around 200 BC, the Romans started to build their large structures by using mortar and cement made from volcanic sand called harena fossicia. During this same period, the Chinese also used a form of cement to construct structures like the Great Wall that to this day are still standing.

Concrete has evolved throughout the millenniums, going through various alterations which have enhanced its composition, durability, and strength.

Among modern types of concrete we have:

• Reinforced concrete: it is the combination of conventional concrete with other types of materials, such as steel, to reinforce its strength and ductility.

• Precast concrete: this type of concrete is prepared off-site, typically in factories, to then be assembled on-site.

• Lightweight concrete: it has low density, and it’s made of lightweight aggregates.

• Decorative concrete: as the name states, it is principally used for decorative purposes. It can be molded, colored, or polished according to specific requirements.

New alternatives to concrete

Perhaps one of the major reasons why concrete is so popular is because of its cost-effectiveness. Compared to other building materials, concrete offers durability and strength at much lower prices.

On the not-so-bright side, it has been labeled as “the most destructive material on earth”. For that reason, construction companies are gradually opting for more eco-friendly alternatives in an attempt to achieve a sustainable way of building.

What are some of these materials?

• Bamboo: it might come as a surprise, but bamboo is increasingly becoming popular among contractors who prefer to use it for small structures due to its lightweight features.

• Steel: This material is almost as economical as concrete and it’s greatly versatile.

• Wood: similar to concrete, wood has been used for centuries, and it’s highly sought-after in construction as well.

• Hempcrete: looks like concrete but it’s made of the inner part of hemp plants mixed with lime.

• Plastic waste:  an extraordinary way to give a second life to used plastic is to incorporate it into innovative construction projects.

Is it the end of concrete as a construction material?

Even though the introduction of new sustainable building materials is impacting positively the construction sector, concrete remains in the top position, and it will stay there for many years to come. This is mainly due to the fact that most of these novel materials are still on trial and are generally more expensive.

At AME, we offer precision concrete work for your project. Contact us for more details!