Concrete Reinforcement
For concrete to reach its optimal strength it must be reinforced. There are a variety of methods for reinforcing but the most common is steel rebar. Other methods like Helix™ Micro Rebar or fiberglass can be used. Consult BuildBlock Engineering, site specific engineering, and local codes before planning your reinforcement schedule and ensure adequate and proper reinforcement placement.
Below Grade Application
Reinforcement (usually rebar) can be placed in different areas inside the wall to provide additional strength. In below grade basement applications with backfill on one side, rebar is generally placed on the tension side of the wall. This provides additional strength from the pressure of backfill on the wall.
Above Grade Application
In above grade applications, rebar is typically placed in the center of walls. This is done because the center of the wall must resist wind and seismic forces and those forces can swing either way. Alternating horizontal rebar left and right of center every other course will create a vertical chase to place vertical rebar into. This makes it easy to keep vertical rebar in the center of the wall during the pour without additional ties.
