Residential construction today nearly always includes concrete in some form and to some extent. Concrete is used in footings, foundation walls, floor slabs, retaining walls, sidewalks, driveways, and patios. Concrete is a strong, durable, and economical material whose appearance can be altered in many ways to make it decorative as well as functional. Concrete is a controlled mixture of cement, aggregates, and water. Because it is a fluid mix, concrete can be formed into almost any shape and finished with a variety of textures.

Concrete strength and durability are easier to achieve with an understanding of how concrete is mixed and cured, how strength develops, and how variations in materials and mix design can accommodate different seasonal weather conditions and project requirements. An understanding of concrete properties and ingredients will produce better projects with greater efficiency and economy, higher profits, and fewer callbacks. This chapter discusses the essential properties of fresh and hardened concrete, the characteristics of different cements and aggregates, the role of admixtures, the processes of hydration and curing, basic concrete mix designs, and the critical importance of water-cement ratio. Some discussion is also given to the cause of common problems and how to avoid them.