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Today I was working on a project to make a baseline schedule for it and I found some topics in the Bill of Quantities that I didn’t understand so I searched a lot and a lot trying to find the answer. And here is what I found.
What is the difference between Blinding, Screed Concrete and Ordinary Plain Concrete? [Full comparison table below]
Concrete is an essential component in most construction projects, but not all concrete is created equal. There are different types of concrete used for different purposes.
Three common types of concrete used in construction are blinding, screed, and plain concrete. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at each type of concrete and the differences between them.
# Blinding Concrete
What is Blinding Concrete
Blinding concrete is a thin layer of concrete that is placed on the soil surface before the construction of foundations, footings, or floors.
Why we use Blinding Concrete in construction projects ?
The purpose of blinding concrete is to provide a smooth surface for the construction of the substructure. It also acts as a barrier to prevent moisture from the soil from reaching the structure’s foundation.
Blinding concrete is typically 50-100mm thick and is made of a mix of cement, sand, and aggregates. The mix’s consistency is usually wet and can be poured or pumped onto the soil surface.
# Screed Concrete
What is Screed Concrete?
Screed concrete is a type of concrete used to provide a level surface for flooring or tiling. It’s applied over the structural concrete and serves as a top layer that’s smoother and more level. Screed concrete is typically thinner than blinding concrete, with a thickness of 25-40mm.
How to make screed concrete?
Screed concrete is made up of a mix of cement, sand, and water. Unlike blinding concrete, screed concrete can be troweled, and its consistency is usually drier. Once it’s applied to the surface, it’s leveled off using a straight edge.
# Plain Concrete
What is plain concrete?
Plain concrete, also known as normal or regular concrete, is the most common type of concrete used in construction. It’s a versatile type of concrete that’s used for various purposes such as foundations, columns, walls, and floors.
How plain concrete is made?
Plain concrete is made of a mix of cement, sand, and aggregates, and water. It’s typically poured into a formwork and allowed to set and cure. Once it’s cured, it forms a hard and durable surface.
Comparison Table
Here is a full comparison featuring advantages and disadvantages of each type
| Type of Concrete | Contents | Usages | Advantages | Disadvantages |
| Blinding Concrete | Sand and gravel, crushed stone, Portland cement, water | Used to cover the ground surface in preparation for the construction of a foundation or a slab | – Prevents the penetration of water into the foundation or slab
– Provides a smooth, level surface for the foundation or slab to be built on |
– Not strong enough to bear heavy loads
– Cannot be used as a finished surface – May crack if not installed properly |
| Screed Concrete | Sand and cement mix, sometimes with additives such as fibers or plasticizers | Used as a thin layer over a concrete slab or subfloor to provide a smooth, level surface for tile, carpet, or other flooring | – Provides a smooth, level surface for flooring
– Can be reinforced with fibers to increase strength |
– May crack if not installed properly
– Not strong enough to bear heavy loads |
| Plain Concrete | Cement, sand, gravel or crushed stone, and water | Used for structural purposes such as columns, beams, walls, and slabs | – Strong and durable
– Can be used as a finished surface with proper treatment |
– Requires formwork to be installed during construction.
– May crack if not installed properly – Can be prone to cracking and spalling in freezing conditions |
Summary
Conclusion In summary, blinding, screed, and plain concrete are all types of concrete used in construction, but each has a different purpose. Blinding concrete is used to provide a smooth surface for the construction of the substructure and to prevent moisture from the soil from reaching the foundation. Screed concrete is used to provide a level surface for flooring or tiling, and plain concrete is used for various purposes such as foundations, walls, and floors.
Understanding the differences between these three types of concrete is important for any construction project. Choosing the right type of concrete for a specific purpose can ensure that the structure is strong, durable, and fit for purpose.
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