What is PSI and how much of it should concrete have?
PSI stands for “Pounds per Square Inch” and refers to the inherent load bearing capacity or strength of the concrete. Concrete can be batched as low as 2500 PSI but most concrete applications such as driveways, concrete patios, and walkways and the like start at 3000 PSI and go up from there. The higher the PSI in the mix the stronger and more expensive the concrete will be. So, how much PSI is enough? We recommend 3000 PSI concrete for our standard driveways, walkways, and patios. Even footers and concrete foundations are routinely done with 3000 PSI concrete mixes. More intemperate climates may require 4000 PSI. The best advice is to call your local county building department and ask an inspector what they think – Be careful not to open a pandora’s box, though.
