Identifying the Need for Reinforcing Mesh in Concrete

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As essential as construction is, it can also be a confusing field for novices. But what we all definitely know is that concrete is an essential component in almost all construction projects. This simple material allows us to create sturdy and strong buildings with ease. However, some projects have requirements that Brisbane concrete  alone cannot fulfil. This is where reinforcing mesh comes into the picture.

But what exactly is it? Who should or shouldn’t use it? Let’s take a better look.

What is reinforcing mesh?

A steel reinforcing mesh is made up of steel wires welded together in the form of a flat grid. There are many types of meshes used in construction (like carbon and fibre), though steel mesh is the most common and cost-effective. A reinforcing mesh comes in varying sizes, depending on the needs of the construction and the concrete slab size. The most common size is 150x150mm with a 4mm thickness.

A reinforcing mesh is set inside the concrete during construction. After the slab is set, the mesh inside it offers additional strength against pressure. Thus, concrete with reinforcing mesh is able to withstand much more pressure than regular concrete slabs. Contrary to popular belief, a wire mesh does not rust inside the concrete. This is because the curing of the concrete seals it completely by cutting off the oxygen that makes rusting possible. A reinforcement mesh is cost-effective on concrete prices Brisbane and prevents premature cracks in the concrete.

Another alternative to reinforcing mesh exists in the form of reinforcing bars (or rebar). Rebar is steel rods that serve the same purpose as a mesh. In most construction projects, both rebar and meshes are used together. Like the mesh, rebar also comes in variable sizes.

Who needs a reinforcing mesh?

A reinforcing mesh, while very useful, is not required in all constructions. It is important to understand where would you do and don’t need it. Most residential projects do not require a reinforcing mesh. This includes garages, pathways, and shed floors. If your driveway doesn’t see much traffic, you likely do not need a mesh either.

Larger projects that are likely to see heavy pressure need reinforcing mesh. This includes buildings, bridges, etc. Sometimes, a large project might not witness uniform pressure. In such cases, the engineers can identify the areas that need reinforcement. Some locations might just need extra reinforcement due to the age of their primary material (like old public buildings).

Even in small-scale projects, there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Sometimes, the ground below might be soft. In this case, using reinforcing mesh would stop the mini concrete from sinking. Sometimes, you just know that your small construction will be under a lot of pressure (like a garage filled with heavy vehicles). In such cases too, using a mesh is a good idea.

Conclusion

Construction is like building your dreams into reality. And we all want our dreams to be strong. Using the right steel reinforcing mesh Brisbane in the right place would help your build something that lasts a long time.

4 Important Tips to Greater Efficiency When Working With Concrete

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As a DIYer, you may find it an easy task to mix and pour concrete in your projects. However, for foundations or other structural elements, it is imperative to seek the services of expert concrete suppliers Brisbane to do the job. This will give you the desired outcome and a structurally sound building. Similarly, a regular contractor with different expertise may not have the in-depth knowledge of working with concrete that an expert concrete team who works with concrete every day has.

Below are some vital tips that will help you ensure the most effect use of concrete:

1. Tensile Strength:

The tensile strength of concrete can be understood as its resistance to various forces, such as pulling or twisting. We can cite the instance of a bridge that requires high tensile strength. A bridge tends to bend under pressure or due to weather-related changes, and it therefore must have outstanding tensile strength. Meanwhile, the foundation of a building or concrete wall will have strong tensile requirements as it settles over a period of time. Experts in reinforcing mesh in Brisbane decide tensile and compression strength by carrying out a slump test at the job site.

2. Using Concrete Slab Calculator:

Mistakes about how much concrete to use can be costly. An excessive amount may be tough to clean while too little will need a second application and consequently may not bond well. Professionals at steel suppliers Brisbane can measure the area after completing the subgrade and mixing gravel and dirt as required. You must not forget to account for the rebar and comprehend that concrete will shrink as it cures and water gets evaporated.

3. Selecting and Using a Concrete Saw:

There are four different and specific kinds of concrete saw. Each type of concrete saw is designed with a specific use in mind. A walk-behind saw has emerged as one of the most robust and precise saws and can carry out cuts with the least stress. A handheld saw can complete work around the edges. Wet saws spray water on the cut and keep the dust down for stronger visibility and firm control over the cut. Meanwhile, a diamond blade can make clean cuts which will be sharp when the work is completed.

4. Ratios

You should also have a good idea about ratios for mixing concrete. Generally, concrete proportions are four parts aggregate, one part cement, and two parts sand. It is also important to obtain top quality concrete from concrete suppliers in Brisbane. Meanwhile, the proportions may also change for some particular applications. The higher quantity of cement will add adhesiveness. And, increased sand can permit better forming. And, more aggregate will form stronger concrete. The rule for water will be “use as little as possible to hold things together.

Conclusion

Working with concrete requires skills and knowledge. Especially if that concrete is going to be structural or load bearing. You can rely on the experts at Reocrete for all your concreting needs.

Significance of Rebar and Its Requirement for Your Next Project

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When you initiate a concrete or cement construction project, the term rebar will often be used. You should know what rebar is and its relevance to your upcoming project. What roles rebar plays for your project? The term rebar is heard commonly when you plan to use premixed concrete in Brisbane. There are different types of rebar that will be required for the project. Rebar can be explained as a steel bar that is required in concrete construction. When you add these reinforcing steel bars, you will create reinforced concrete. Rebar can effectively prevent cracks in your project when it is used in floor slabs, walls, or posts.

Discussed below are the five important facts about rebar that you should be aware of:

1. Concrete is a sponge:

Stainless steel reinforcing bars offer a reliable solution to issues linked with chloride related corrosion. This corrosion can take place in reinforced concrete structures. Areas near the sea are more prone to this as seawater and sea spray can cause early deterioration of carbon steel.

2. Recycle:

It is worth mentioning that stainless steel can be recycled without any hassle after several years of service. This has the least impact on the environment. The better performance of stainless steel will bring down the maintenance and repair costs of a comparable carbon steel-reinforced structure.

3. Easy to handle:

Stainless steel has emerged quite convenient to handle. It can be manipulated and welded, and can better endure damage and abrasion during the installation when compared with galvanized and coated steel bars. Stainless steel rebar can last up to five times longer than galvanised steel rebar corrosive conditions.

4. Economical:

Stainless steel has emerged as an economical solution for structures that may not have easy access for future repairs and maintenance. Additionally, stainless steel’s strength and corrosion resistance mean less concrete can be applied for the same result. This can effectively bring down the weight of the structure, and lead to lower transport expenses for prefabricated objects. The increased strength of some stainless steel grades over carbon steel can allow for the use of lesser metal sections. You can also buy top quality mesh reinforcement Brisbane at cost-effective prices

5. Corrosion zones:

It is important to note that stainless steel reinforcing must be used in corrosion zones. It has been designed specifically and there should be no risks of galvanic corrosion of rebar in these areas. Linking between stainless steel and carbon steel can be accomplished with couplers or lapping. Stainless steel has emerged to be highly durable and attractive to asset owners.

Conclusion

Rebar has emerged a significant element of concreting in Brisbane. There are various types of rebar including carbon steel, galvanized, stainless steel, and epoxy coated. Carbon steel rebar has emerged as the backbone of concrete work. It has been used in the vast majority of concrete pours. It is because it is quite economical and offers massive strength. Meanwhile, galvanized rebar is useful for the environment where corrosion is a big issue.

Do’s and Don’ts of Concrete Cutting

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Concrete cutting refers to the procedure of removing concrete based on methods such as sawing and drilling. The nature of this job necessitates a high level of skill and precision on the part of an individual who is tasked with reinforcing mesh Brisbane. This is the sure-fire way to avoid common mistakes when cutting through concrete.

Concrete cutting appears to be a simple and easy thing to do on the surface. However, it is necessary to remember a few things to avoid common mistakes.

This post will outline some do’s and don’ts related to concrete cutting which will help you save time, money, and hassle at once.

Concrete Cutting: Safety Guidelines

It is worthwhile to remember the common safety precautions at the time of cutting through concrete. No matter what the intent is, the fact remains that these guidelines are universal. As such, they are applicable to almost all circumstances.

Here’s a handy checklist of some safe practices that you should adopt and the ones that you should avoid when cutting concrete.

Dos: Things to Do while Cutting through Concrete

  1. Put your protective gear on before working on a concrete cutting project

The nature of all construction jobs is such that they involve noise and dust. Therefore, it is imperative on the part of construction workers to wear protective gear. It helps protect the mouth, ears, and eyes from medical conditions related to construction jobs.

Before you begin working on a concrete cutting project, make certain that you wear your protective gear comprising of earplugs, a mask, rubber boots, and protective glasses.

  1. Go slow and take it easy

While working on a project comprising of premix concrete Brisbane, it is imperative to practice patient. Making a number of shallow passes will prevent the possibility of any damage to the saw blade. Also, this approach helps shield equipment from overheating.

  1. Maintain the proper flow of water

Wet saws need a constant flow of water to keep at bay the possibility of releasing sawdust in the air. Do not forget to ensure that there is a steady flow of water. Also, use the right kind of saw blade – wet saw machine for the wet saw.

Don’ts: Things to Avoid when Cutting through Concrete

  1. Avoid using a blade that doesn’t work

Using a blade with a broken tooth or in a damaged condition can pose a risk to your safety. Plus, a damaged saw blade is also likely to make it difficult for you to cut concrete for a project involving steel bar Brisbane. You’d be better off using a fresh blade in conjunction with a blade guard.

  1. Refrain from working in a place that doesn’t have proper ventilation

A saw machine uses biofuels due to which it produces smoke. Also, it releases a considerable amount of dust thus, proper ventilation is of paramount importance to prevent the possibility of suffocation.

Final Thoughts:

Concrete cutting is all about precision and discipline. By remembering the aforementioned practices linked to concrete delivery Brisbane, you can ensure your safety along with productivity.

3 Most Commonly Asked Industry Questions about Rebar

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Rebar can be described as a construction site stable that can strengthen almost all available commercial structures. Professionals at mini concrete Brisbane claim they are consistently being cut, tied, and then covered before concrete is emptied. You need to carry out huge research and possess adequate information prior to choosing the correct reinforcing bars for your project.

Many individuals face several questions pertaining to rebar and here are some of the most commonly asked questions and answers that might interest you:

1. What are the different types of rebar?

You will find rebar in several varieties when it comes to length and diameter. Rebar has primarily been designed to reinforce hard concrete structures and roadways. At the same time, it becomes significant to find out the size of rebar that you may require for your project. It is also crucial for you to select the right kind of rebar. You will come across several options when selecting types of rebar. This may include European carbon steel, galvanized, epoxy coated rebar, glass-fiber-reinforced polymer rebar, and stainless steel, among others. Experts of mesh reinforcement Brisbane at Reocrete will help you select the right type of rebar that will suit your project.

2. What do rebar marks mean?

Each bar in a shipment has been produced with unique markings that are generally discovered near the end of the bar. Just like a code, these unique marks offer a system of crucial details. The very first letter or symbol provides key details about the producing mill. The first letter is followed by a bar size and the third symbol describes the type of reinforcing steel. The third symbol is generally seen in the shape of an S (meant for carbon steel) or W (meant for low alloy steel). And, finally, you will see grading marks which are seen at the end and highlight the tensile strength of the bar in pounds per square inch. You can obtain top quality rebar from steel reinforcing mesh Brisbane experts at a cost-effective price-point.

3. Is it okay to use rusty bars available at your site for a long duration?

You should not face any issues when using rebar that has remained lying at your job site. However, you must exercise some caution if it displays signs of rust. It is worth noting that mud, rust, oil, or dust may get stuck on to the surface of bars. These elements may impact the bonding power that bars have with the concrete. Subsequently, it may lead to unsteady or rickety structures. At the same time, a small quantity of rust may actually make the bond sturdier. However, in the case that the weight of the bar has altered as a result of rust, it is ideal to dump that bar and use a new one. It is imperative to always clear the mud, oil, and any kind of grease as these elements affect the bonding.

Conclusion:

You must remain cautious when using rebar. Contact the professionals at Reocrete’s concrete Brisbane today to select top quality rebar. Additionally, it is also important to possess the correct tools that will make your job easier. If you lack an arsenal of equipment, you must secure some crucial pieces immediately. This may include rebar cutters, rebar tiers, and rebar benders, among others.

Different Proportions to Consider for Concrete Mix

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As your construction project progresses smoothly, it’s quite important to consider the right concrete mix proportion. But, as the slurry gets prepared with the addition of cement, sand, and water, the ratio totally depends on the construction project. However, based on prior experience, the building codes offer standard ratios for onsite construction. If you are worried about quality, then you should opt for premix concrete in Brisbane from Reocrete. But, if you are not sure about the ratio, then you should read ahead to learn more about the proportions.

Materials used for preparing concrete

Among the basic materials, concrete always has cement as one of its constituents. While shale, limestone, and other ingredients are burnt to form clinker, the grinder grinds lump to obtain a fine powder. You may come across blended cement at some sites however, this is ideally used for masonry work, ideally for plastering. Apart from cement, aggregate and sand are also major constituents. The ingredients not only enhance structural integrity but also increase compressive strength.

Different types of proportions

  1. Nominal Mix ratios: Many years ago, the ratio of the constituents for concrete was actually based on the amount of cement and aggregate. Since this was considered a fixed ratio, such types of ratios were known as nominal. Ideally, the nominal ratio is 1:1.5:3 for M20 grade concrete and 1:2:4 for M15 concrete. To learn more about concrete prices in Brisbane contact Reocrete today!
  2. Standard Mix ratios: As the contractor may vary the nominal ratio, the overall constitution may differ to some extent. Even though the ratio may enhance strength, the cement may not be suitable for the onsite construction work. Hence, in order to maintain minimum compressive strength, concrete is based on a standard ratio. While you purchase concrete, you may come across different grades like N20, N50, N32, and N25. But, for grades more than 50, the contractor may require special class concrete for the work. Regardless of the concrete mix, every grade is different with respect to its compressive strength.
  3. Designed Mix Ratio: When dealing with a Designed Mix Ratio, an experienced professional determines the precise proportion of the constituents. Moreover, concrete suppliers in Brisbane may follow a rational approach to figure out the proportion with the unique characteristics of the materials. It’s completely normal to use standard or nominal mixes for short-duration jobs. The ratios, in this case, don’t matter when there isn’t any need to carry out control testing.

Finally, for increasing the strength of hardened concrete, it’s important to maintain the water to cement ratio; fine aggregate can be added only when the person is preparing a sticky mix.

Contact steel suppliers in Brisbane at Reocrete, if you have any questions or need any assistance deciding on the right concrete for your construction project!

How to Determine the Tensile Strength of Concrete

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When a contractor plans to execute a construction project, it’s important to firstly determine the overall strength of the concrete. Due to various effects and the applied load, the structures built from concrete are prone to tensile cracking. But, on the other hand, it’s advisable to use steel reinforcing mesh Brisbane when the contractor needs to reinforce concrete slabs. So, let’s get into two different kinds of tests and the procedure of measuring the tensile strength of concrete.

1. Split-Cylinder Test

A split-cylinder test is known as a standard test, which enables the contractor to find out the tensile strength indirectly. As the expert starts off with the test, a concrete specimen dipped in water is placed between the loading surfaces of the testing machine. While the load is applied uniformly along the diameter, the testing machine is set to a range between 0.7 to 1.4 MPa/min.

It’s important to note that a plywood strip has to be placed on the lowermost plate. Moreover, the expert shouldn’t forget to place another strip above the specimen. Later, the pressure needs to be applied relentlessly until the concrete specimen starts cracking along the diameter. At this instance, the expert has to record the reading which is nothing but the breaking load. He then has to use a formula for calculating the tensile strength of the specimen. Typically, the tensile strength may lie between 1/8 and 1/12 of the compressive strength. If you’re using mini concrete Brisbane, then you should be mindful of the time for which the specimen is exposed to water.

2. Flexure Test

The flexure test is yet another test that can help you determine the tensile strength of concrete. Before proceeding with the following steps, first pour fresh concrete into the moulds to create samples. Rather than coming up with just one sample, create three specimens for the test. Keep the hardened concrete in the water at a temperature between 24 and 30 degrees Celsius for two days.

After the specimen undergoes curing, it has to be placed carefully between the loading points. After some time, a load equivalent to 2% to 6% of the ultimate load has to be applied steadily. Mesh reinforcement Brisbane is essential for concrete slabs at the construction site.

Towards the end, as soon as you calculate the loading rate, find out the modulus of rupture. This figure is nothing but the extent at which the concrete cracks when it is subjected to continuous load or pressure. Post test, set the testing machine to a configuration for cylinder testing. Also ensure you discard the specimen and clean the testing machine thoroughly.

Once you have decided on what type of concrete you need, you can find suitable tools online. If you are concerned about completing the construction project, you should contact firms dealing in concrete delivery Brisbane  such as Reocrete Brisbane.

Steps to Consider when Reinforcing Concrete Slabs with Wire Mesh

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Whenever there’s a need to make concrete slabs, it’s necessary to use a welded wire mesh. While this wire mesh is an alternative to reinforced steel rods, it prevents cracking of concrete in the future. According to concrete suppliers Brisbane, it’s better to reinforce wire mesh so that it settles at an appropriate height once it has been poured. So, if you are unaware of how to reinforce concrete slabs, then read ahead to learn more about the steps.

Step 1

As soon as you start, you have to carefully place the slab runners for supporting the wire mesh. The slab runners play a better role in elevated concrete pours. With every runner being 4 feet long, you should take care of placing the runners. Ideally, you have to maintain a distance of 3 ½ feet between two consecutive runners.

Step 2

Now, you have to place the first sheet of mesh just above the slab runners. In case it’s a slab on grade, then you can place the mesh on the ground. You should start off from the corner so that you can maintain sufficient clearance. Do keep in mind that the metal should not be in contact with the edge of the poured concrete. This would certainly help because it actually prevents the chances of the exterior getting affected due to rust. If quality is the prime concern, then you can try out premix concrete Brisbane.

Step 3

Now, you need to place the next sheet right above the first sheet of wire mesh. At this instance, you have to place the wire mesh one and a half squares away, letting every sheet to overlap the other 1 ½ squares; it’s essential to apply some pressure on the second sheet and force it down. You should make sure that the second sheet is perfectly resting on the slab runners. In order to be accurate with the overlapping technique, you might have to adjust the second sheet a bit later.

Step 4

Soon after placing the wire mesh, you have to tie the sheets all at once. With the help of Linesman pliers, you have to tie the corners and tie the centre of the overlapping sheets as well. Way ahead, you need to be sure that the ties have brought two sheets closer. As you proceed with placing the wire mesh, continue tying it till the slab has been covered completely. If you wish to save money, then you could get in touch with suppliers and check out concrete prices Brisbane.

Step 5

Subsequently, you have to lift up the entire mesh at a suitable height from the slab. In case you have placed the slab runners on the ground, then you don’t have to follow this step. Moreover, you have to place 2×2 concrete bricks just beneath the wire mesh. As you work towards supporting the mesh, you should place the bricks at least at a distance of 4 feet.

Finally, before reinforcing the concrete slab, you should check whether the mesh is designed for construction projects. You should also check for the dimensions and size depending on the area that needs to be reinforced. If you don’t know what to purchase, then feel free to research online. This would give you a fair idea about the size along with the price. While you procure supreme quality steel reinforcing mesh Brisbane from the market, just be sure that the material is galvanised.

Tips for Pouring Concrete in Different Seasons

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Whenever you need to pour concrete at the worksite, you need to be careful. With the site being busy with activity, you need to plan out and ensure that the concrete covers the area properly. But, with the change in the seasons across the year, pouring concrete can tend to be a big challenge. So, with this in mind, let’s go through some tips for pouring concrete during different seasons of the year.

Tips for pouring concrete during winter

  • As the winter season sets in, the outdoor temperature is likely to fall. Before you plan to pour concrete, check the weather because it is best to do it on warmer days. As you observe the weather forecast, you could schedule the task accordingly.
  • In winter, concrete is bound to freeze due to the cold surface. So, to mitigate the risk of quick cooling, you have to use heater blankets or heaters. As you prep the surface, you are then able to gain control over certain reactions.
  • Using quick-set cement is yet another tip to consider when pouring concrete. Even though this cement sets at a slow pace, it will harden quicker than traditional cement. But, on the other hand, if you wish to enhance the set time, you could mix some additives.

Tips for pouring concrete during summer

  • Just like it’s in the winter season, you may face problems in the summer season as well. Owing to the intense heat, concrete tends to set quickly. So for pouring concrete in summer, you should carry out the task early in the morning.
  • In the case that the climatic condition is unbearable, then you might think about adding some cold water to the concrete mix. This helps to maintain the temperature and keep it around 10 degrees Fahrenheit. If you want to know more about steel reinforcing rods or bars, then feel free to contact steel suppliers Brisbane.
  • If it’s necessary to pour concrete across an area under intense sunlight, then you have to cover the region. This helps in creating a better environment for the concrete to set effectively. Alternatively, you could think about spraying cold water over the area before you pour the concrete. As the surface water would be evaporating due to the heat, this tip would help you to maintain the constitution of the concrete.

Finally, whenever it starts raining, it’s advisable to use concrete mixtures made as per the standards. To avoid the concrete from getting wet, you should never forget to cover the area with plastic sheets. Ideally, you should pour concrete when it’s not raining. Try out a reinforcing mesh Brisbane in case you wish to enhance the strength of the concrete slab.

Steel vs. Concrete: Which Comes Out on Top

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You need to make vital decisions in construction projects. One of the most important decisions that you need to make is to select the most useful resources.  You must assess the benefits of steel and concrete and understand which one will prove beneficial in a project. Steel bar Brisbane provides top-quality steel for your projects. A huge majority of steel produced today is obtained from recycled materials. The recycling process helps in reducing costs compared to other materials. Meanwhile, the major benefit of concrete is that its cost remains consistent whereas the price of steel may end up fluctuating, but overall it it is less costly than reinforced concrete.

Let us compare the two:

Strength:

When it comes to structural steel, it has emerged to be highly powerful, ductile, and robust. These qualities have made it one of the most popular materials in commercial and industrial construction projects. You can get steel reinforcing mesh Brisbane at an economical price point. Meanwhile, concrete is a composite material that may include sand, gravel, and water; it offers high compressive strength but falls in tensile strength. Concrete needs to be reinforced with steel rebar in a bid to enhance the structure’s tensile capacity and elasticity.

Resistance from fire:

Steel has emerged to be an integrally non-combustible material however, when it is heated at high temperatures, its power may decline. Therefore, it must be covered with fire-resistant materials to enhance its safety. On the other hand, Concrete has emerged to be highly fire-resistant as a result of its unique composition. When concrete is used for building construction projects, many other components used in the project may not be fire-resistant. Therefore, experts must take all precautions to eliminate complications of various kinds within the entire structure.

Sustainability:

It is worth noting that structural steel is entirely recyclable and a major portion of structural steel is established from recycled steel. Amid its strong lifespan, steel can be used and adapted several times and, you will not compromise with structural integrity. Structural steel causes the least environmental impact while manufacturing, fabricating, and treating. Elements in concrete are natural to the environment. You can crush concrete and use it in future mixtures and this kind of recycling will bring down the presence of concrete in landfills. Buy top quality mesh reinforcement Brisbane from reliable suppliers at cost-effective prices.

Versatility:

Steel has emerged to be a highly flexible material. You can get it fabricated in a vast array of designs for various applications. The strength-to-weight ratio of steel tends to be really high when compared with other economical building materials. It also provides varied artistic alternatives. Concrete may be moulded into various shapes, but, it suffers from some shortcomings pertaining to the floor to floor construction heights, long and open spans.

Conclusion:

You must weigh your options carefully when you begin a construction project. You must obtain top quality concrete from leading suppliers at concrete delivery Brisbane. Steel may corrode when it comes in contact with water and, if left without adequate care, you may compromise with the safety and security of the structure. Reinforced concrete offers high resistance against water and will not corrode.