7 Most Common Concrete Mistakes
It is time to begin planning for summer fun. Adding or redoing a concrete patio or walkway will be a rewarding project and add to your home. Concrete seems like the perfect material to work with. Its durability and functionality are a great combination.
Before you get started pouring new posts for a deck, consult with a professional. They will help you avoid the seven most common concrete mistakes.
1. Set Up of the Forms
Concrete forms are needed to establish the finished shape of your concrete. Concrete professionals can help you with how to set up the forms that will shape your concrete. Though concrete is wet when you pour it into the shape, concrete is a strong material even when it has not dried.
Forms need to be strong enough to rein in and hold the wet concrete. After you have poured the concrete, rebars are often needed to reinforce the forms. Be sure that your forms are braced so they can withstand any weather events.
2. Ordering the Incorrect Amount of Concrete
Before you begin pouring, double or triple check your calculations. Depending upon the application, finished concrete needs to be load-bearing standards. You cannot just add another layer of new concrete if you do not mix the correct amount the first time.
3. Mixing the Concrete Incorrectly
Another calculation that needs to be performed correctly is the composite of your materials. Concrete that has too much water in the mixture might not be strong enough for its purpose. Conversely, concrete that does not have enough water in its composition cannot be poured or spread correctly. In both instances, too much water or too little water in portion to the concrete will not cure as it needs to.
4. Not Using the Right Concrete for the Application
There are different types of concrete that have been formulated for varying purposes. There is not a one-size-fits-all approach that you can take to purchasing concrete. There are prepacked types of cement that you can purchase. Be sure to select the one that has been created for your application.
You can also choose to mix your own cement, which can save you money. However, be sure that you purchase the correct ratio of sand, cement, and stone.
5. Timing of When the Forms are Removed
In addition to selecting and framing concrete forms correctly, the timing of their removal matters too. For the concrete to form in the shape you need for your project, forms need to remain until the concrete is fully cured. If you pull the forms away prematurely, your concrete might crack. Cracks or fissures in your concrete will weaken your structure. Eventually, the concrete can fail.
6. Leveling after Concrete Begins Forming
Once you have the correct ratio of ingredients for your concrete, then you need to pour it. After you have poured the concrete, you need to be ready to level it. Have your screed board, hand float, and trowel ready to use before pouring your concrete.
7. Not Texturing the Concrete for Its Use
As part of the leveling of your concrete, make sure that you add a texture appropriate for its use. Walking areas will have different textures than an area that you might add stamped images.
