You may already be familiar with steel rebar, but how much do you know about this versatile construction material? In our latest blog, Austen Knapman delves into some of the most compelling questions about this textured and tubular modern reinforcement essential, examining everything from definitions and unique benefits to sizing up materials for your next project.
What Is Rebar?
Rebar, or reinforcing bar, is a ribbed metal construction material used predominantly as a concrete reinforcement support. When used with masonry it will bolster the construction, acting as a powerful tension solution.
What Can I Use Rebar For?
Not only can rebar be used to improve the resilience of concrete, it can also be applied in an array of building project purposes. Most commonly, you'll see the strengthening effects of rebar in building foundations, pavements on major roads, bridge building constructions and in the strengthening of individual segments that make up even larger structures.
It can also be used in more creative and esoteric projects such as minimalist art and sculpture, coffee table making and in the creation of practical tools.
Why Is It Called A Deformed Bar?
Rebar is often called deformed bar owing to its irregular surface of ribs, fins, indentations and other textured projections. Conversely, plain bars are called so for their smooth outer surface.
Why Is Rebar Ribbed?
These ribs and textures are crucial in forming a reliable bond between rebar and concrete. When concrete is used in conjunction with rebars, the ribbed texture will help to prevent the concrete from sliding by creating traction between the construction materials in question.
What Are The Benefits Of Using Rebar?
Rebar is made from highly workable steel that is easy to use, handle, shape and weld. It is also durable, strong and highly versatile, making it a fantastic choice for many different projects over a long period of time.
At Austen Knapman our Rebar is made from grade 500 high yield steel, offering you incredible tensile strength under structural stress, making it perfect for construction industry use.
Reinforcing bar is readily available to buy and can also be recycled easily and made into new construction materials to use again.
Can Rebar Rust Inside Concrete?
This depends. Although rebar can rust due to water infiltrating the concrete - causing it to flake and corrode - most of the time the concrete provides enough adequate shielding protection against the elements. If the concrete itself becomes damaged, this can expose the rebar to the weather elements, causing it to deteriorate.
The corrosion of rebar won't happen quickly in most instances, but this is something that is influenced by surrounding environmental conditions such as temperature, humidity, atmospheric pollutants and moisture.
Does Concrete Always Need Rebar?
Rebar isn't always required as a means of concrete reinforcement. However, including it will greatly improve the quality of the concrete and even prevent cracks and surface damage from occurring over time. Concrete that is poured at a depth that is greater than 12 - 13cm will probably require reinforcing bar to improve the structural integrity of your building project.
What Are The Most Popular Rebar Sizes?
At Austen Knapman, you can buy rebar according to your exact cut-to-size requirements. Choose your desired rebar T-size, from 8mm up to 25mm, and then the length and we'll give you measurements in millimetres, centimetres and inches. Finally, select a quantity and we'll provide you with everything you need for your next project. If you're looking for a different size, please get in touch with us and we'll do our best to carry out your more bespoke requirements.
