Do I need wire in the concrete?

http://members.cement.org/ebiz55/ProductCatalog/Product.aspx?ID=263

Can Fibers Replace Wire Mesh in a Concrete Slab on Ground?

To address this query, it's essential to understand the purpose of wire mesh or fiber in a concrete slab. One primary reason is to control cracking. According to the PCA, cracks in ground slabs can be managed with consistent subgrade support and correct joint spacing based on slab thickness. Refer to Table 6-3 from PCA’s Concrete Floors on Ground, EB075.

Is Reinforcement Necessary for Ground Floors?

NO - With uniform support and short joint spacing.

YES - When long joint spacing is needed or joints aren't suitable for floor usage.

Though short joint spaces reduce the need for reinforcement, correctly placing wire mesh in the upper portion of the slab, about two inches below the surface, can allow for longer distances between joints. In such scenarios, wire mesh is used to hold intermediate cracks tightly.

Plastic fibers shouldn't be looked upon as replacements for wire mesh in a ground slab. Although they don't impact joint spacing, plastic fibers are effective in reducing plastic shrinkage cracking.

Plastic shrinkage cracks appear right after the concrete is placed, before it hardens. Generally, plastic fibers are added at 0.1 percent by volume for on-grade slabs, equating to 1.5 pounds per cubic yard.

While polypropylene is a common choice for controlling plastic shrinkage cracks, other types of fibers exist, such as nylon.

Fibers serve specific purposes based on their materials. For example, steel fibers offer high flexural strength and impact resistance, especially useful in industrial settings.

If you are interested in learning more, please visit our website to learn more.

After conducting some research, I found conflicting opinions about whether reinforcement is necessary in concrete slabs.

I'm considering laying down a 12ft by 8ft concrete slab for a garden shed (intended for storage, not heavy machinery or vehicles), with an additional 3x3ft section for a coal bunker. The concrete will be about 4 inches thick, mixed on-site using a standard mixer.

If you're in search of more details, you can visit Xingtai Steel.

Should I include reinforcement in this slab?

Opinions are divided. Some experts say "yes," some say "no," while others suggest "it could be beneficial but might cause issues in a small slab, so avoid it." They argue that if metal is adequately encased in concrete, it would be beneficial. However, if water penetrates, the metal could rust, expand, and eventually crack the slab prematurely. The soil here is firm clay and situated on a significant slope.

For further insights on welded wire mesh for concrete, please contact us. We will offer expert advice.