Rebar has often been the default option in the construction industry when it comes to concrete applications but there are actually some great alternatives that have a lot to recommend them.

For example, choosing Fiberglass Rebar and Remesh panels could be considered viable options and very effective in terms of making sure that concrete structures are reinforced effectively.

Here is a look at the choices worth considering when you are seeking alternatives to concrete reinforcement.

Stainless steel is popular as an alternative

When the conversation turns to what alternatives are available it is likely that stainless steel rebar will be the first suggestion as a replacement for standard steel rebar.

It’s easy to see why. Stainless steel rebar is very resistant to corrosion and it requires less maintenance together with reduced maintenance costs compared to its standard steel.

An obvious downside to consider when weighing up the option of using stainless steel rebar is that it doesn’t reinforce every part of concrete. This creates gaps where tensile strength is reduced.

Premature concrete deterioration is still a potential problem if you are looking at stainless steel.

Fiberglass ticks a lot of boxes

There are a number of key advantages attached to the idea of using fiberglass rebar and remesh.

Fiberglass is substantially more lightweight compared to steel. It is a material that is not corrosive, and it is also highly durable.

There is an added cost element to consider when thinking about fiberglass. But even though this is a consideration, it is fair to say that the potential benefits of using fiberglass heavily outweigh any negatives.

Plastic fiber – positives and negatives

The general concept of using plastic as an alternative is fine. Plastic fiber offers a lightweight and low-cost solution, however, there are certainly negatives that you need to consider.

One of the biggest issues to consider is that the natural stretching process that comes with using plastic could potentially create cracks that are allowed to develop.

Helix Micro rebar is considerably stiffer than concrete

This option involves using a one-inch twisted steel reinforcement option. The fact that it can be up to six times stiffer than concrete means that there is very little opportunity for any cracks to develop.

It is a material that is also easy to work with and is not as labor-intensive to use compared to other options.

This innovative solution deserves consideration as a viable alternative to rebar concrete reinforcement.

What about bamboo?

Bamboo is a material that has attracted a lot of headlines because it is a sustainable and abundant resource.

You can use engineered bamboo reinforcement. But you have to consider whether it is suitable as it has the tendency to rot when exposed to water. That means some geographical locations would not make bamboo a suitable option.

As you can see, there are some unique and interesting options available. Some of the reinforcement alternative options have the potential to deliver a viable solution.

If you are in the market for a different solution to your concrete reinforcement requirements, some of these suggested alternatives definitely merit your consideration.