Low-Rise Buildings

Slightly more than half of all low-rise buildings in the United States are constructed from concrete. Designers select concrete for one-, two-, and three-story stores, restaurants, schools, hospitals, commercial warehouses, terminals, and industrial buildings because of its durability and ease of construction. In addition, concrete is often the most economical choice: load-bearing concrete exterior walls serve not only to enclose the buildings and keep out the elements, but also carry roof and wind loads, eliminating the need to erect separate cladding and structural systems. 

High-Rise Buildings

A major advantage of concrete construction for high-rise buildings is the material's inherent properties of heaviness and mass, which create lateral stiffness, or resistance to horizontal movement. Occupants of concrete towers are less able to perceive building motion than occupants of comparable tall buildings with non-concrete structural systems. As a result, concrete has become the material of choice for many tall, slim towers.

Sustainability

Whether they think of it as “building green” or “sustainability,” today’s building owners expect structures to have minimal environmental impact, yet meet or exceed their lifestyle needs. They want properties offering comfort and security with low energy bills and low maintenance. They also demand healthy interiors that promote well-being. And they want all of this in an attractive package.

They form tight building envelopes that minimize air infiltration, simplify the addition of insulation, and provide thermal mass for more consistent temperatures and decreased energy usage. This is beneficial from an environmental standpoint, and can contribute toward a building’s greenness in many rating systems and some codes.