If you’ve ever worked on a multifamily construction project, then chances are good that your team used gypsum concrete as an underlayment for the floor. Also known as gypcrete, this material is a combination of Portland cement, sand and gypsum, but it is far lighter than standard concrete. A team can pour up to 30,000 square feet in one day, which makes it less labor-intensive than applying traditional concrete.

The sand that is added to the mix has a rounded shape rather than angular or flat-shaped particles, which helps it better integrate with the gypsum concrete and improve its flow and self-leveling properties. Additionally, gypsum concrete is made with recycled sand as opposed to conventional Portland cement, which reduces the need for new materials in construction and is more environmentally friendly.

In addition to being light in weight, gypsum concrete is also fire resistant and sound attenuating. Thoma points out that the number one complaint of residents in multifamily projects is noise, and gypsum concrete can help address this issue by reducing sound transmission between floors. It is also highly effective in creating a fire-rated wall/ceiling assembly when poured at three-fourths of an inch.

Gypsum concrete is a cost-effective flooring solution for residential, commercial, and multifamily projects, especially when combined with radiant heating. In addition to its thermal and sound attenuating qualities, it also has high compressive strength that ensures long-term durability and structural integrity for any surface it covers. ColoradoCrete offers a floor leveling service that renovates existing wavy, pitted, sunken or cracked floors into a fresh and revitalized condition, ensuring they meet and exceed established standards for flatness.