Rock Crete/ Sand

 Compared to regular concrete, pumice concrete offers roughly a one-third reduction in weight. Proportioning, mixing and placing are done in a similar manner to that of conventional concrete, as is the finishing. The applications for pumice concrete are also the same as those of standard sand-and-gravel concrete, but is particularly useful where lightweight concrete is desirable.

Concrete and Masonry products often make up a large part of a construction project, especially those requiring strength and longevity. One of the biggest drawbacks to these enduring concrete structures is their bulk and weight. That’s where lightweight pumice really shines. For example, a standard concrete building block, using common sand and gravel aggregate, creates efficiency issues—both in terms of labor costs and sizing the supporting structures, such as footings for the deadweight load. But when blocks are made with lightweight pumice aggregate, sufficient compressive strength is retained as the weight goes down. At the same time, thermal conductivity goes down, as does acoustical transfer…all because of the natural structure of pumice. Pumice concrete benefits include:

—Lightweight pumice concrete is highly elastic, providing more flexural strength than standard concrete, affording enhanced resistance to wind forces and seismic shock waves while providing excellent compressive strength.

—Lightweight pumice concrete reduces deadload requirements (and job costs) for structures. Pumice concrete can be handled by lighter equipment. Another key factor is the cured concrete's workability, particularly in sawing, drilling or nailing.

—Pumice aggregate provides up to 4x the insulation value of standard aggregates or a standard concrete mix, is freeze-and-thaw cycle resistant, and eliminates or reduces moisture condensation on structure walls and ceilings, making it an excellent choice for colder climates and locations that experience dramatic changes in weather.

—The fire resistance of lightweight pumice concrete is also a big benefit: the same hour-ratings can be achieved using less pumice concrete than what is required with standard concrete.

—Manufactured Stone Veneers: Another industry where pumice concrete is an ideal fit is the booming manufactured stone and brick veneers industry. The beauty of a fieldstone wall, for example, is attained at no additional cost in base support or over-sized footings. Pumice concrete-based manufactured stones are cheaper to ship, less time-consuming and labor-intensive to install, are assembled using standard mortar mixtures, yet perform and endure like any other masonry products, only better.