Concrete Glossary
Your reference guide for common terms used in the concrete and construction industry.
Aggregate
The sand, gravel, or crushed stone that forms the main bulk of concrete. Aggregates are bound together by cement and water.
Cement
A fine powder (typically Portland cement) that acts as the binding agent in concrete. When mixed with water, it forms a paste that hardens and holds the aggregate together.
Cure
The process of maintaining adequate moisture and temperature in freshly poured concrete to ensure it develops its full potential strength and durability. Proper curing is critical for a quality result.
PSI (Pounds per Square Inch)
A unit of measure for the compressive strength of concrete. A 4000 PSI mix can withstand 4000 pounds of pressure per square inch without breaking.
Rebar
Steel reinforcing bars embedded in concrete to improve its tensile strength. Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension, and rebar helps overcome this weakness.
Slump
A measure of the consistency or workability of fresh concrete. It is measured by filling a cone with concrete, removing the cone, and measuring how much the concrete sags or \"slumps.\"
Workability
The ease with which fresh concrete can be mixed, placed, compacted, and finished without segregation. Good workability is essential for achieving a smooth, uniform surface.