We have turned to concrete as a primary building material more and more over the last hundred years or so. Although concrete has been used since Roman times, in the modern era it was at first mainly used for foundations before being widely adopted by the military, who found that it could be reinforced and cast into rounded shapes, making it ideal for bunkers and gun emplacements. After the Second World War, it became a material for the future with the Brutalist movement. It’s still at the forefront of construction, which is why companies like the Concrete Stroud based operation www.monstermixconcrete.co.uk/concrete-stroud/ are so sought after.

What are the advantages of concrete?

Concrete is extremely strong in its own right, and when it’s poured and set around steel reinforcing bars or mesh, it becomes even stronger and very hard to break. The durability of concrete also makes it the perfect base for foundations. It can be laid quickly and will be firm enough to work on within days of being poured, although it continues to gain strength for weeks afterwards. It can also be cast into almost any shape, which gives designers the chance to add some artistic touches.

What are the disadvantages?

Concrete can stain easily in the rain, and it can crumble if the mix is not correct. Whilst it can be painted, the surface doesn’t always take paint well, and a smooth render of plaster may need to be applied, increasing costs. Its natural colour is grey, which some people find unsightly.

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