What is Rebar and Do I Need It?

What is Rebar and Why You Need It

Rebar (reinforcing bar) is steel bar used to strengthen concrete. Understanding why it's needed helps you understand why some concrete projects require it and others don't.

Concrete's Weakness

Concrete is extremely strong in compression (being squeezed) but weak in tension (being pulled apart). When concrete cracks, the pieces try to separate. Without reinforcement, they do separate, creating larger cracks and structural failure.

How Rebar Works

Rebar provides tensile strength. When concrete cracks, the rebar holds the pieces together, preventing separation. This keeps cracks small and maintains structural integrity.

When You Need Rebar

Rebar is essential for:

• Driveways (especially with heavy vehicles)
• Structural slabs
• Foundations
• Any load-bearing concrete

For simple patios or non-structural pads, wire mesh may be sufficient. But for anything structural or load-bearing, rebar is required.

The Bottom Line

Rebar provides the tensile strength concrete lacks. It prevents cracks from becoming structural failures. For driveways and structural applications, rebar isn't optional—it's essential for long-term performance.