Construction World August 2019

Concrete offers SUPERIOR STRUCTURAL INTEGRITY Concrete construction can produce durable structures requiring lower maintenance than competitive materials. T his is according to Gary Theodosiou, Structural Engineer of The Concrete

hurricanes, tornadoes or seismic conditions are considerations. This lateral stiffness also means that occupants of concrete towers are less able to perceive building motion. “Due to its versatility, aesthetic appeal, cost-effectiveness and availability, concrete is changing the face of South Africa’s landscape. Increasingly, cutting- edge engineers and architects are making

Institute (TCI). Theodosiou says because of its exceptional longevity and ease of construction, concrete is invariably the most economical choice for engineered structures. “Tilt-up concrete panels, for example, serve not only to enclose the buildings, but to carry roof and wind loads – eliminating the need to erect separate cladding and structural systems,” he explains. “Concrete is often left exposed on interior walls because of its aesthetic appeal, durability and inherent fire-

concrete their material of choice. “As requests for changes are not uncommon in any construction project, the design flexibility of concrete allows the contractor to accommodate design changes after the process has begun,” Theodosiou adds. The Concrete Institute can provide design advice and information on the benefits of concrete construction in commercial, retail and industrial sectors. The TCI Information Centre holds and is continually accumulating technical information relating to design, use and construction of concrete structures. 

Tilt-up concrete panels enclose buildings and can carry roof and wind loads to eliminate the need for separate cladding and structural systems.

resistance. Exposed concrete reduces the need for, and cost of, applying additional fireproofing to satisfy building codes. “A major advantage of concrete construction for engineered structures is the material’s properties of density and mass. Lateral stiffness, or resistance to horizontal movement, make concrete the product of choice when constructing in areas where high winds,

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CONSTRUCTION WORLD AUGUST 2019