Concrete Cover for R.C.C. Structure

What is concrete cover?

Concrete cover for RCC element is required to protect the reinforcement from corrosion & fire. The thickness of the cover depends on exposure condition and nature of structure.

It is basically provided in the Sec. detail drawing.

Reference I.S. Code : IS 456 : 2000

Type of structure	Concrete over, mm
Concrete cast against and permanently in contact with ground	75
Concrete in contact with ground or water
No. 19 through No. 57 bars	50
No. 16 bar and smaller	40
Concrete not exposed to weather or in contact with ground
Slabs, walls, joists
No. 43 and No. 57 bars	40
No. 36 bar and smaller	20
Beams, columns
Primary reinforcement, ties, stirrups, spirals	40
Shells, folded plate members
No. 19 bar and larger	20
No. 16 bar and smaller	13