Many condo buyers focus their search on concrete buildings, that is in which concrete is used to erect the structural walls and floors. This material offers many advantages, but there are also a few downsides to consider.
In fact, concrete’s composition means that it’s far from a perfect building material, especially in residential construction.
ITS ADVANTAGES
Durability
Concrete’s major advantage is its sturdiness. It doesn’t swell or shrink like wood due to temperature variations; concrete can withstand extremely harsh environmental conditions without cracking.
Better Sound Proofing
Concrete provides better insulation between units against airborne sounds (talking, television, etc.). Residents are less likely to hear their neighbours arguing or a baby crying, for example. The opposite is true, however, for impact-related noise (see paragraph below).
Higher Fire Rating
Condo owners often report that their building’s concrete structure helps them feel safer. This non-combustible material can easily withstand temperatures approaching 1000 degrees Celsius. This is the very reason why most buildings’ emergency stairwells are made from concrete.
Ease of Maintenance
The developers of some concrete condo buildings opt not to cover the units’ concrete floors with a traditional flooring material, such as wood or vinyl. The effect can be quite eye-catching. The industrial look provides an additional advantage: concrete floors are effortless to clean, especially if an epoxy coating has been applied on top. And dust won’t stick to a polished concrete floor.
ITS DISADVANTAGES
Not as Environmentally Friendly
Producing the cement used in concrete consumes vast amounts of water and generates significant CO2 emissions. Wood is by contrast a far greener structural framework material. Recycled concrete represents an acceptable compromise: manufacturers create new concrete by repurposing crushed concrete rubble from demolished buildings.
Impact Noise Amplification
If a concrete structure is the best at blocking airborne sounds, it’s a totally different story for impact noise. Concrete can even amplify it! It’s not uncommon to hear neighbours walking overhead or to think that something has fallen over inside your own condo if a person elsewhere in the building drops a heavy object on the concrete floor.
Harder Ceiling Installation
Inserting screws into a concrete ceiling, whether it’s to attach lighting fixtures or a swing chair, is much more difficult. It may prove just as challenging to hang curtains on exterior facing concrete walls. You will have to find an alternative installation method, one which won’t damage the walls or ceiling.
Lower Comfort Level
Units without the usual carpeting or floating floors may be less comfortable as bare concrete can feel cold underfoot. Walking or standing on a hard concrete floor can also be tough on the joints as well.
In short, whether you choose a concrete or wood frame building, each material offers particular advantages. It’s up to you to decide which you prefer! A real estate broker can advise you.