What are the consequences of excessive water in a concrete mix?

Excessive water in a concrete mix can significantly affect its performance and long-term durability. When too much water is added, it leads to a dilution of the cement paste. This dilution adversely affects the hydration process, which is crucial for achieving the desired strength and bonding characteristics of the concrete.

As the water-cement ratio increases, the concrete becomes more porous, making it less dense. This increase in porosity allows for greater water infiltration and potentially leads to issues such as freeze-thaw damage and increased susceptibility to chemical attacks. The end result is a concrete mix that has reduced compressive strength and overall structural integrity.

In summary, the presence of excessive water leads to a weaker concrete that is more prone to deterioration over time, confirming the statement about diluting strength and increasing porosity.