Concrete is one of the most versatile and widely used
building materials in the world. But not all concrete is made the same. Depending
on your project, you may find yourself choosing between normal class concrete and
decorative concrete. Each option has unique properties, standards, and
applications, and knowing the differences helps you select the right mix for
your needs.
Normal Class Concrete
Normal class concrete refers to mixes that comply with
AS1379, the Australian Standard for supply of concrete. These mixes are
designed for general use in residential, commercial, and light industrial
projects. Strength grades typically range from 20 MPa to 50 MPa, making them
suitable for applications like driveways, footpaths, house slabs, and
small-scale structural work.
The key benefit of this type of concrete is its reliability
and accessibility. It’s widely available, cost-effective, and tested for
consistent performance under typical Australian conditions. If your project
doesn’t have unusual design or performance requirements, normal class concrete
is often the best choice.
Special Class Concrete
When a project demands more than the standard, builders and
engineers will use a special class concrete. This category covers specialised,
high-performance mixes that go beyond the normal specifications for concrete.
Examples include:
High-strength concrete: With compressive strengths exceeding
50 MPa, it is often used in high-rise buildings, bridges, and heavy-duty
industrial flooring.
Permeable
concrete: Designed to allow water to filter through, making it ideal for
sustainable drainage systems and reducing stormwater runoff.
Lightweight or heavy-density mixes: Used in projects where
weight reduction or shielding (such as radiation protection) is required.
The main advantage of special class concrete is its ability
to be engineered for specific performance outcomes. However, it usually
requires closer collaboration between the supplier, builder, and engineer to
ensure the mix meets the exact requirements.
Decorative Concrete
While normal and special class concretes are chosen for
performance, decorative
concrete is selected for its appearance as well as its strength. Decorative
blends can include coloured oxides, polished finishes, exposed aggregates, or
stamped patterns to mimic natural stone or pavers.
Common uses include patios, pathways, pool surrounds, retail
spaces, and feature driveways. The benefit of decorative concrete is that it
combines durability with visual appeal, delivering a hard-wearing surface that
enhances the look of a home or commercial property.
It’s worth noting that decorative concrete can still be
manufactured to meet AS1379 standards for strength and durability, while also
offering customisation through finishes and textures.
How to Choose the Right Concrete for Your Project
- Use normal class concrete if you need a cost-effective,
reliable solution for general applications like house slabs, paths, or
driveways.
- Opt for special class concrete if your project requires
engineered performance, whether it’s high strength, sustainability, or specific
density.
- Select decorative concrete if aesthetics matter just as much
as durability, especially for outdoor living areas or commercial spaces.
Choosing between normal class concrete, special class
concrete, and decorative concrete depends on the balance of strength,
performance, and appearance your project requires. By understanding the
differences, you can make an informed decision, ensuring your concrete not only
meets structural demands but also enhances the finished project.
Looking for reliable concrete suppliers in Victoria? Never
fret as VIC MIX is here for you. With nearly 30 years in the
construction business, VIC MIX in Melbourne knows concrete, from supplying
exposed aggregate and decorative concrete to Melbourne and Victoria's
communities to undertaking large-scale commercial and industrial projects right
across the state.