The latest new concrete technology is beginning to gain acceptance in the industry. Some of the more interesting new concretes are called high performance concrete (HPC), ultra high performance concrete, and geopolymer concrete. They have significant advantages and little or no disadvantages when compared to standard concrete in use today.

High performance concrete usually contains recycled materials and thereby reduces the need to dispose of these materials. Some of these materials include fly ash (waste by-product from coal burning), ground granulated blast furnace slag, and silica fume. But perhaps the biggest benefit of using some of these other materials is the reduction in the need to use cement, also commonly referred to as Portland cement. The reduction in the production and use of cement will have many beneficial effects. These benefits will include a reduction in the creation of carbon dioxide emissions and a reduction in energy consumption, both of which will improve the global warming situation. It is estimated that the production of cement worldwide contributes five to eight percent of global carbon dioxide emissions. In addition, the use of fly ash and furnace slag is usually cheaper than cement and they have properties that improve the quality of the final concrete.

Today’s new concrete technology has produced new types of concrete that have live spans measured in the hundreds of years rather than decades. The use of fly ash and other by-product materials will save many hundreds of thousands of acres of land that would have been used for disposal purposes. Fly ash and other by-products from burning coal, are some of the most abundant industrial waste by-products on the planet. The elimination of burial sites for these waste by-products will translate into less risk of contamination of surface and underground water supplies. When compared to standard concrete the new concretes have better corrosion resistance, equal or higher compressive and tensile strengths, higher fire resistance, and rapid curing and strength gain. In addition, the production and life cycle of these new concretes will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by as much as 90%.

BSI is a new concrete technology that has a much higher tensile and flexural (bending) strength than standard concrete. It is a fiber-reinforced concrete that is combined with premixed dry components. It is much denser than standard concrete and structures built with it will need far less new concrete, perhaps as much as 80% less. The high density gives BSI concrete other properties such as extremely high resistance to corrosion from chemicals. The higher strength of BSI eliminates the need for placement of steel rebar in structural designs. BSI, or some variation with metallic fibers and/or superplasticizers, will be used to build some structural elements less than an inch thick. Overall, structures built with BSI will have much greater life spans and will require far less maintenance.

Ductal is another new concrete technology that is denser than BSI. Ductal uses steel or organic fibers to create a concrete that is stronger than BSI. Interestingly, the ancient Romans used horse hair in their concrete to improve its strength. Ductal is being tested for use in earthquake resistant structures, bridges, tunnels, and nuclear containment structures. Although it is more expensive than traditional concrete there are a number of cost savings that will make it price competitive. Among these cost savings are no steel rebar is needed, less material is needed with less related labor and equipment costs, and structures are thinner with less weight and require smaller foundations. In addition, both BSI and Ductal have low maintenance costs because of their very low porosity and are very resistant to penetration by water or chemicals. They are both resistant to salt water which is very corrosive and damaging to today’s bridges and roadways.

Using the right material is very important. Doing a little research and knowing what materials are right for you before you get a quote from a contractor can be helpful. This way you can find out which companies are trying to sell you a mediocre product that wont last as long. That way you get the best material for the job.

A lot of concrete mixes are inferior, and in Minnesota, especially with all our weather extremes, you should really only use All Granite-Mix Redi-Mix concrete. If the job happens to be your driveway, or even a really wide patio that you plan on storing say a camper on, the contractor should use class seven base fiber mesh additive to provide additional strength.

It’s ok if you don’t know right now what all granite or fiber mesh is. Do a little research. It will help knowing these things when it comes time to get a professional contractor out to do an estimate. In laymen’s terms, you want the best material to be used so the finished product comes out beautiful, and stays that way for years to come.

Having quality materials is just the first step. Ensuring that you are going to receive quality workmanship is next, but just as important. Take the time to research the company you are considering. Ask questions like, Are they licensed, bonded, insured, or supported by quality control companies like the Better Business Bureau?, How long has this company been around?, Does it feel like they are listening to your needs, or just trying to sell a job?, Are they willing to give you addresses and names of past customers?, and other questions like these. This is your home; you want the finished product to be something you can be proud of for years.

Don’t fool around when it comes to selecting your concrete contractor. G. Vizecky Contracting is a quality-oriented, family owned business that has been serving the Twin Cities community since 1946. They focus on pleasing the customer, and the results speak for themselves. Over 85% of their business comes from referrals or return business. Give them a call at (612) 825-6616 to set up a free, no obligation, estimate, or follow these links to learn more about concrete installation or to see some of their work.

There are a number of building materials that have been found to be exceptional when it used in the construction of buildings. One of these exceptional building materials is steel reinforced concrete. Steel-reinforced concrete bridges are also among the most common type of bridge built. In fact, the vast majority of highway bridges is of this type and is most frequently encountered along interstate highways. For added strength and support, the concrete used in constructing these bridges is often reinforced with imbedded steel bars which are commonly called as rebar.

Steel reinforced concrete is a specific type that has had strong steel rebar or fibers added to it while dripping, creating a very strong type of concrete that is able to withstand almost anything when it has dried. Because the results of using steel reinforced are so good for the strength of the building, most modern buildings today use steel reinforced concrete in the construction process.

Steel reinforced concrete can fail due to insufficient strength, leading to mechanical failure, or due to a reduction in its durability. Corrosion and freeze may damage poorly designed or constructed reinforced concrete.

Physical characteristics of steel reinforced concrete:

• The coefficient of thermal expansion of concrete is similar to that of steel, eliminating internal stresses due to differences in thermal expansion or contraction.

• When the cement paste within the concrete hardens this conforms to the surface details of the steel, permitting any stress to be transmitted efficiently between the different materials.

• The alkaline chemical environment provided by calcium carbonate causes a passivating film to form on the surface of the steel, making it much more resistant to corrosion than it would be in neutral or acidic conditions.

Fiber–reinforced concrete is also becoming an increasingly popular construction material due to its improved mechanical properties over unreinforced concrete and its ability to enhance the mechanical performance of conventionally reinforced concrete.

I can assure you that this comical vision is far from the stylish, warm and natural look of this surface.

Concrete countertops can be customized with unique colors, unusual shapes and specialty finishes not available with other surfaces.

Truly a designing dream, concrete countertops are rapidly gaining popularity with restaurants, hotels and homeowners.

Colors

Virtually any color can be achieved with cement counter tops. Every fabricator of mixes their own recipe of sand, water and stone and custom color pigmentation can be added to the mix or stains can be applied in the later stages. Either way you get a unique color variation to your finished countertop.

The particular coloring process results in colors that are warm and rich with earthy tones. Considering that the colors found in nature provide us with an amazing spectrum from sandstone creams to deep reds and every shade in between, your choice is almost endless.

The most popular colors are creams, grays and browns that are a natural complement to popular decorating and design materials like wood, stone, stainless steel and brick.

Design Possibilities

As coloring pigments, stains, various aggregates, and epoxy coatings are added to the concrete mixture, your countertop may be created to resemble the look, texture, and feel of quarried stone such as marble, granite, and limestone.

Interesting objects such as shells, coins and glass tiles may be set into your kitchen counter top to enhance your decorating theme or give added depth to the counter top surface. This is particularly beneficial to restaurants and hotels when creating decor themes, but offers equally enticing design possibilities for your home as well.

Like stone or other natural surfaces, concrete is not a static material and it will acquire character over time.

Unlimited Shapes and Forms

If you desire a non-traditional shape, then concrete countertops definitely are the most versatile surface on the market. Your countertop can be as unique as your imagination. Molds can be individually shaped to perfectly suite any space, or unusual location.

Curves, L-shapes and V-shapes are all available options when designing with concrete.

Trivets for hot pots and pans can be made and built-in sinks are popular for both kitchen and bath.

Many edge styles are available and you’re sure to find one you like, but each fabricator is a bit different so your choices depend on your contractor.

Fabrication and Installation

As with coloring, each manufacturer has their own method. They may be pre-cast the countertop in a shop controlled environment or create it on location.

Concrete countertops are made with a combination of cement, lightweight aggregates and additives such as silica, fume, pozzolan and acrylic fiber. Structural steel or wire mesh and/or fiberglass is used for reinforcement.

Sometimes the concrete may be ground or polished to achieve a finer, smoother finish.

The final step when installing your countertop is sealing the concrete. The type of sealer used varies so consult with your installer.

Price

Concrete countertops range in price from $66-$125 per square foot for materials, plus installation of between $40-$50 per hour. Installation is difficult and requires a high level of skill and experience to do properly. Hence, the steep price.

This might be far more than laminated surfaces, but concrete countertops offer more style and durability than laminate.

Actually, the price of an installed concrete countertop may rival that of some expensive granite or marble countertops with beauty to match.

Cleaning and Care

It is not recommended to use your concrete countertop as a cutting board or place hot pots and pans straight onto the surface. Concrete may be hard and durable, but your countertop must still be treated with proper care.

Cleaning your concrete is no different than cleaning your granite countertop. Hot water and a sponge will clean suitably. When more aggressive cleaning is required, neutrally balanced ph soaps are recommended. Abrasive cleaners should be avoided.

Your concrete countertop should be waxed every three months for continued care and protection of the sealer.

Are Concrete Countertops Right For You?

Let’s see:

Pro’s:

**Concrete countertops offer custom colors. The colors of wood, granite, marble and other durable alternatives are restricted to the material itself.

**Unique personalization is possible by embedding objects into your countertop to add depth or create a particular theme.

**Any shape or form can be fashioned with built-in sinks and drain boards.

**Concrete countertops can be installed without seams in many instances.

Con’s:

**Concrete countertops are more porous than granite requiring sealing initially and waxing on a regular basis

**They are not heat or scratch proof

**Concrete is more susceptible to cracks

**Expensive–often more than granite or marble

Concrete countertops certainly offer interesting and stylish design possiblities not found with other surfaces and a few trade-offs as usual.

However, with professional installation and proper care, you can be confident your concrete countertops will provide you with years of fashionable and functional satisfaction.

I can assure you that this comical vision is far from the stylish, warm and natural look of this surface. Concrete countertops can be customized with unique colors, unusual shapes and specialty finishes not available with other surfaces.

Truly a designing dream, concrete countertops are rapidly gaining popularity with restaurants, hotels and homeowners.

Colors

Virtually any color can be achieved with cement counter tops. Every fabricator of mixes their own recipe of sand, water and stone and custom color pigmentation can be added to the mix or stains can be applied in the later stages. Either way you get a unique color variation to your finished countertop.

The particular coloring process results in hues that are warm and rich with earthy tones. Considering that the colors found in nature provide us with an amazing spectrum from sandstone creams to deep reds and every shade in between, your choice is almost endless.

The most popular colors are creams, grays and browns that are a natural complement to popular decorating and design materials like wood, stone, stainless steel and brick.

Design possibilities

As coloring pigments, stains, various aggregates, and epoxy coatings are added to the concrete mixture, your countertop may be created to resemble the look, texture, and feel of quarried stone such as marble, granite, and limestone.

Interesting objects such as shells, coins and glass tiles may be set into your counter top to enhance any decorating theme or give added depth to you counter top surface. This is particularly beneficial to restaurants and hotels when creating a decor theme, but offers equally enticing design possibilities for your home as well.

Like stone or other natural surfaces, concrete is not a static material and it will acquire character over time.

Unlimited Shapes and Forms

If you desire a non-traditional shape, then concrete countertops definitely are the most versatile surface on the market. Your countertop can be as unique as your imagination. Molds can be individually shaped to perfectly suite any space or unusual location.

Curves, L-shapes and V-shapes are all available options when designing concrete countertops.

Trivets for hot pots and pans can be made and built-in sinks are popular for both kitchen and bath.

Many edge styles are possible so you’re sure to find one you like, but each fabricator is a bit different so your choices will depend on your contractor.

Fabrication and Installation

As with coloring, each manufacturer has their own method. They may pre-cast the counter top in a shop controlled environment, or create it on location.

Concrete countertops are made with a combination of cement, lightweight aggregates and additives such as silica, fume, pozzolan and acrylic fiber. Structural steel or wire mesh and/or fiberglass is used for reinforcement. Sometimes the concrete may be ground or polished to achieve a finer, smoother finish.

The final step when installing your countertop is sealing the concrete. The type of sealer used varies so, consult with your installer.

Price

Concrete countertops range in price from $66-$125 per square foot for materials, plus installation of between $40-$50 per hour. Installation is difficult and requires a high level of skill and experience to do properly. Hence, the steep price.

This might be far more than laminated surfaces, but concrete countertops offer more style and durability than laminate.

Actually, the price of an installed concrete countertops may rival that of some expensive granite or marble countertops with beauty to match.

Cleaning and Care

It is not recommended to use your concrete countertop as a cutting board or place hot pots and pans straight onto the surface. Concrete may be hard and durable, but your countertop must still be treated with proper care.

Cleaning your concrete countertop is no different than cleaning your granite countertop. Hot water and a sponge will clean suitably. When more aggressive cleaning is required, neutrally balanced ph soaps are recommended. Abrasive cleaners should be avoided.

Your concrete countertop should be waxed every three months for continued care and protection of the sealer.

Are Concrete Countertops Right For You?

Let’s see:

Pro’s:

Custom colors are available. The colors of wood, granite, marble and other durable alternatives are restricted to the material itself.
Unique personalization is possible by embedding objects into your countertop to add depth or create a particular theme.
Any shape or form may be fashioned with built-in sinks and drain boards.
Concrete countertops can be installed without seams in many instances.
Con’s

Concrete countertops are more porous than granite requiring sealing initially and waxing on a regular basis
They are not heat or scratch proof
Concrete countertops are more susceptible to cracks
Expensive–often more than granite or marble
Concrete countertops certainly offer interesting and stylish design possibilities not found with other surfaces and a few trade-offs as usual. However, with professional installation and proper care you can be confident your concrete countertops will provide you with years of fashionable and functional satisfaction.

The Log House Kits

Unlike the construction of concrete homes, the log homes can be constructed very easily with the help of log house kits. These DIY log home kits are affordable tools to construct stylish and energy efficient homes. There are many types of log home kits that are available today. Most of the basic log cabins will include the tools needed such as fasteners and sealers for the construction of a log homes. Though the construction of log homes using these DIY kits is very easy, there are some factors that need to be considered. The first thing to be considered is the price factor. DIY log house kits are available at a price range of 13,000$ to 20000$. Hence you should choose the log home kit by planning your budget. The second factor to be considered is the construction options such as the flooring. Proper planning can save lots of cash spent in the construction of log homes. For example if you choose carpet flooring instead of hardwoord flooring, you can save a great deal of money.

Preparation to Live in a log home

Though all of us will love to live close to the nature by residing in log homes, certain preparations are necessary to make us feel comfortable in the log home. As our lifestyle will be adjusted to living in concrete homes, certain preparations are necessary to get used to the lifestyle in the eco-friendly log homes. You don’t have to worry about the harsh weather conditions and the natural calamities while living in a log home. When it comes to the maintenance of a log home, it is entirely different from maintaining conventional homes. As the log homes provide natural climate control, you should eliminate the use of extra air conditioning (The main objective of living in a log home is to reduce the cash spent in electricity bills).

Advantages of Log homes over Conventional Concrete homes

• Lower Co2 emissions (40% less when compared to the conventional concrete homes)

• Low maintenance costs

• Natural insect and pest repellant properties

• High durability against natural disasters like earth quake, floods

• Huge savings in electricity bills as there is no need for extra air conditioning.

It’s high time to become eco-friendly through every means which is possible.