Illinois Roofing Practice Exam

Which type of concrete is primarily engineered to support weight?

1. Lightweight concrete

2. Reinforced concrete

3. Structural concrete

4. Aerated concrete

The correct answer is: Structural concrete

The most suitable choice is structural concrete, as it is specifically designed to bear loads and provide structural support in various construction applications. This type of concrete incorporates the necessary strength and durability to manage the forces and stresses it will encounter, making it ideal for foundations, beams, and other critical load-bearing elements in buildings and infrastructure. Lightweight concrete does reduce overall weight and is often used for insulation purposes or in situations where less weight is beneficial, but it is not primarily engineered for heavy load support. Reinforced concrete, while indeed strong and capable of supporting weight due to the addition of steel reinforcement, is a construction method rather than a specific type of concrete itself. Aerated concrete is primarily focused on thermal insulation and lightweight characteristics, making it less suited for applications that require significant weight-bearing capability.