Concrete has been used in construction since BCE, and the Romans used it extensively, among a list of other great civilizations. These days, advanced concrete solutions in commercial construction are transforming commercial spaces as the industry continues to create new ways to use this time-tested material.
Gone are the days of traditional concrete’s limitations, as innovations in material science pave the way for unparalleled strength, sustainability, and design flexibility. Advanced concrete and masonry techniques create long-lasting and affordable commercial spaces—from the foundation to the finishing touches.
Read on to learn more about the impact of advanced concrete solutions on commercial space construction.
Hybrid Construction
The true strength of advanced concrete lies in its ability to integrate seamlessly with other materials, enabling hybrid commercial construction methods. Here are some examples:
Concrete and Steel
Combining the strength of concrete with the flexibility of steel leads to sturdy and adaptable structures. This combination enables the construction of tall commercial buildings featuring large windows and spacious interiors.
Concrete and Timber
The warmth and aesthetics of timber, combined with the fire resistance of concrete, can be used for exposed beams, ceilings, and building facades. It can create visually striking and environmentally friendly commercial spaces.
Concrete and Prefabricated Elements
Prefabricated concrete components offer enhanced speed and efficiency during construction. Combined with traditional cast-in-place concrete, these pre-cast elements can reduce on-site construction time and minimize waste.
Enhanced Functionality
Concrete, used in commercial construction for centuries, is no longer only a durable building material. With modern improvements, advanced concrete offers a whole new set of benefits, such as:
High-Performance Concrete (HPC)
HPC exhibits exceptional strength and durability, allowing for thinner slabs and more streamlined designs. This results in lavish usable space within a building, which is particularly important in today’s crowded urban areas.
Self-Compacting Concrete (SCC)
SCC eliminates the necessity for extensive vibration during placement. It can reduce noise pollution and enhance worker safety. Moreover, SCC’s high flowability enables intricate commercial designs that fit nicely into tight spaces, making it ideal for architectural decorations.
Pervious Concrete
This eco-friendly solution allows rainwater to seep through, reducing stormwater runoff and promoting groundwater recharge. Pervious concrete is ideal for parking lots, plazas, and walkways, contributing to a more sustainable urban ecosystem.
Sustainable Solutions
These solutions play a pivotal role in achieving sustainability in modern commercial construction, such as:
Reduced Cement Content
Advanced concrete formulations employ supplementary cementitious materials (SCMs), such as fly ash and slag. This reduces the use of Portland cement, a significant source of carbon emissions.
Recycled Materials
Incorporating recycled construction and demolition debris into concrete mixes diverts waste from landfills and reduces the need for virgin materials.
Longevity and Durability
Its superior strength and resilience build long-lasting structures. This reduces the need for frequent repairs and replacements, minimizing the environmental impact on the building’s lifecycle.
Green Building Approaches
Advanced concrete solutions contribute directly to sustainability efforts and are a foundation for green building practices.
LEED Certification
The Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) Green Building Rating System is a widely recognized benchmark for sustainable construction. Many advanced concrete solutions contribute to earning LEED points, making them a valuable asset for developers aiming for LEED certification.
Urban Heat Island Effect Mitigation
Its ability to absorb and retain heat can contribute to the urban heat island effect. However, lighter-colored concrete pavements and strategically placed vegetation can mitigate this effect, promoting a cooler urban environment.
Improved Indoor Air Quality
Modern concrete formulations with lower emissions and recycled materials improve indoor air quality, enabling a healthier work environment for building occupants.
Advanced concrete solutions mark a significant change in commercial construction. If you want to utilize the benefits of advanced concrete solutions for your commercial construction projects, MGM General Construction Corporation can help you. Contact us to learn more.