Red Seal Concrete Finisher Practice Exam

What common material is used for concrete reinforcement, aside from rebar?

1. PVC pipe

2. Fiberglass

3. Welded wire mesh

4. Polyethylene sheets

The correct answer is: Welded wire mesh

Welded wire mesh is a common material used for concrete reinforcement because it helps to control cracking and improve the overall strength of the concrete. The mesh is made up of a series of intersecting steel wires that are welded together, creating a grid-like structure. This reinforcement provides tensile strength, which is essential since concrete is strong in compression but relatively weak in tension. When placed within concrete slabs, walls, or other structures, welded wire mesh helps distribute loads evenly, enhancing the durability and longevity of the construction. While other materials are used in construction projects, they do not serve the same primary function as welded wire mesh. For instance, PVC pipes and polyethylene sheets are generally used for plumbing or moisture barriers, not for structural reinforcement. Fiberglass can be used in some applications, but it is not as commonly employed in standard concrete work as welded wire mesh, which has been a traditional and widely accepted method for reinforcing concrete.