Residential VS Commercial Concrete
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Concrete is a versatile building material that is used in a wide range of construction projects, from residential homes to commercial buildings. However, there are some key differences between the types of concrete used in these two applications.
Residential Concrete
Residential concrete is typically used for foundations, driveways, sidewalks, and patios. It is a relatively simple mix of cement, water, and aggregates (such as sand and gravel) that is poured and cured to create a strong, durable surface. Residential concrete is typically poured in smaller quantities and is not subject to the same heavy traffic and loads as commercial concrete.
Commercial Concrete
Commercial concrete, on the other hand, is used in the construction of large buildings, bridges, and other infrastructure projects. It is a much more complex mix that includes additional ingredients such as fly ash and slag cement, which improve the strength and durability of the concrete. Commercial concrete is also poured in much larger quantities and is designed to withstand heavy loads and high traffic.
What's the Difference?
One of the key differences between residential and commercial concrete is the compressive strength. Residential concrete typically has a compressive strength of around 2,500 psi (pounds per square inch), while commercial concrete can have a compressive strength of up to 8,000 psi or more. This means that commercial concrete is much stronger and more durable than residential concrete.
Another difference between the two is the curing process. Residential concrete is typically poured, smoothed and cured with a plastic cover on top of it. But commercial concrete is typically poured, smoothed, and then covered with a curing membrane. This curing membrane helps to keep the concrete moist and at the right temperature, which promotes proper curing and helps to prevent cracking.
Pressure Washing Fresh Concrete
It is generally recommended to wait at least 30 days before pressure washing freshly poured concrete. This allows the concrete enough time to properly cure and reach its full strength.
During the curing process, the concrete will lose moisture, which can cause shrinkage and cracking if not allowed to cure properly. The curing process also allows for the chemical reactions between the cement, water, and aggregates to take place, which give the concrete its strength.
Pressure washing too soon after pouring can cause damage to the surface of the concrete, as well as wash away the surface paste that helps to protect the concrete during the curing process. It also can cause the surface to become porous and weak, which can lead to future cracking and staining.
It's important to follow the manufacturer's recommendations and the local building codes on how long to wait before pressure washing newly poured concrete. In some cases, it may be necessary to wait even longer than 30 days before pressure washing, depending on the specific mix of concrete and the environmental conditions.
Conclusion
- Always determine how new the concrete is.
- Make adjustment to you cleaning process and equipment to prevent damage.
Concrete Description |
Suggested PSI Rating |
|
Residential Concrete - Over 30 Days Old - Under 36 Month Old |
1500 PSI |
|
Residential Concrete - Over 36 Months Old |
2000 PSI |
|
Commercial Concrete - Over 30 Days Old - Under 12 Month Old |
1500 PSI |
|
Commercial Concrete - Over 12 Month Old |
2000 PSI |