Due to its strength and durability, structural concrete has become one of the most popular material choices when it comes to the construction industry in the United States. However, concrete often needs reinforcement to sustain the loads placed on it, especially during the construction of bigger buildings and projects.
There are multiple concrete reinforcement options available on the market, the most popular being carbon steel rebar. Let’s learn more about it!
What exactly is rebar?
Rebar is short for reinforcing bar and is commonly used to reinforce concrete and masonry structures in order to strengthen them under tension. Although concrete is extremely durable, it can only withstand certain tension and loads without the help of reinforcement. Adding reinforcement such as rebar or wire mesh significantly increases the tensile strength of concrete and structures. Rebar placed in concrete structures will be able to absorb bending and stretching and allow the concrete to remain secure for years to come.
Available in a wide variety of different grades, thicknesses and materials, rebar is specially designed to offer incomparable strength. The surface of the steel bar is textured with ridges and indentations to reduce slippage during the building process and allow a better bond with the poured concrete. Concrete engineers will evaluate and choose the best grade and thickness for the job to ensure proper reinforcement and strength. Generally speaking, a thicker rebar will be stronger with common sizes in the United States ranging from #3 to #18.
How is rebar installed?
Within project designs, spacing and placement of rebar is as critical as the material or bar thickness being used. Rebar is laid in a grid pattern, often known as a rebar cage, according to the parameters of the construction job being carried out. Thankfully a variety of accessories are available to make the job easier and offer ideal spacing depending on the needs of the structures.
Rebar cages can be installed directly onsite or offsite with the help of specialized tools. The steel reinforcing bars are bent and placed in the desired layouts with the help of accessories such as plastic rebar chairs, wheels, spacers and clips to allow for the perfect placement from the formwork while offering simplicity of use and safety.
Certain concrete installations can require wire mesh, a welded metal fabric made of steel wire that is used similarly to rebar cages. While wire mesh can be a great alternative to rebar, it offers less strength than traditional rebar cages and is often more expensive. On the plus side, wire mesh is easier and faster to install than traditional rebar, depending on the requirements of the construction work being carried out.
While concrete remains a cornerstone of modern construction due to its inherent strength and durability, the importance of proper steel reinforcement cannot be overstated. Rebar stands out as the most effective solution for fortifying concrete structures, ensuring they can endure substantial tension and loads for years to come. By meticulously selecting and installing the right reinforcement, engineers and builders can continue to construct safe and robust structures that meet the demands of architecture and infrastructure.
