Why Purchasing from the ACI Store or Authorized Distribution Partners Matters

3/2/2026

The American Concrete Institute (ACI) is committed to developing and publishing trusted consensus-based standards, technical documents, and educational resources that support the safety, durability, and advancement of concrete design and construction worldwide.

Recently, fraudulent and unauthorized copies of ACI documents have appeared on different, questionable websites. These counterfeit or illegally distributed materials present serious risks to users and to the integrity of the industry.

Why Purchasing from the ACI Store at concrete.org or Authorized Distribution Partners Matters

Ensures Document Accuracy and Currency

ACI codes and standards are updated regularly to reflect new research, committee actions, and industry consensus. Unauthorized copies may be:

Using incorrect versions can lead to design errors, noncompliance, and liability exposure.

Project Safety and Compliance

ACI documents are often incorporated by reference into building codes, project specifications, and regulatory requirements. Relying on fraudulent versions may result in:

Authentic documents from the ACI Store at concrete.org/store or authorized partners, including hard copies, ensure you are working from approved and recognized standards.

Safeguards Intellectual Property and Industry Integrity

ACI publications are developed by thousands of volunteer experts who dedicate their time and expertise to advancing the industry. Unauthorized distribution:

Purchasing legitimate copies helps sustain the work that benefits the entire concrete community.

Protects Your Information and Your Computer

Clicking on, downloading, or accessing unauthorized documents and websites may also expose you to other damage, such as:

Visit the ACI Store to view the hundreds of authentic documents dedicated to improving the design, construction, maintenance, and repair of concrete and masonry structures.

Provides Access to Official Support and Updates

When you purchase directly from the ACI Store or authorized distribution partners, you gain:

Unauthorized sellers offering free or heavily discounted downloads, or in formats ACI has never used (such as CDs and three-ring binders), are often distributing pirated content.

How to Protect Yourself

To ensure authenticity:

If you are unsure whether a source is authorized, contact ACI Customer Service at +1-248-848-3800 or ACICustomerService@concrete.org before buying.

Maintaining the integrity of ACI standards protects public safety, supports industry innovation, and ensures the continued advancement of concrete knowledge worldwide. Your diligence in purchasing from authorized sources helps safeguard the credibility and reliability that the industry depends on.

Thank you for your continued commitment to excellence and integrity in concrete practice.