Concrete is a very durable material meant to withstand heavy vehicle traffic and inclement weather somewhat easily, but it will break down over the years and need eventual replacing. While you might manage patching concrete in a few spots on your own, replacing or pouring concrete is not a DIY job! Rather than thinking that concrete mixing and installation videos you find online are sufficient for learning how to pour your own concrete, you might note some reasons why this job is best left to the pros.

Concrete Is Mixed Individually

Every batch of concrete is mixed individually and adjusted according to the needs of the property. For example, certain aggregates are often added for more traction and to reduce the risk of standing water. Softer concrete might be preferred for sports courts or walkways to absorb the shock of walking and running over its surface.

A concrete services contractor understands the variations in concrete batches and will adjust them according to your property and your needs. Their expertise ensures that your concrete surface will last and provide the traction or strength you expect.

Note the Thickness of Concrete

Along with being mixed in individual batches, every concrete installation is performed to a certain thickness, depending on the expected vehicle traffic, weather conditions and other such factors. Thick concrete will withstand the weight of a trailer, caravan or other heavy vehicles; however, the more concrete you install, the greater your cost!

Rather than guessing the needed concrete thickness for your property or paying too much for an overly deep driveway or walkway, call a concreter. He or she will note the existing ground conditions, depth of the current concrete and expected vehicle traffic, and know the best thickness for your new concrete installation.

Weather and Ground Conditions

Concrete needs a stable base during installation so that it can cure to a proper density before you drive or walk on it. The weather conditions during installation and the soil on which you'll be pouring concrete might affect how well it sets and cures, and even the integrity of the mixture itself. A concreter might put off installation until the ground is dry after a storm or until after a humid summer season, and will also ensure concrete is covered and protected during the curing process. They might also suggest a new layer of aggregate or another base under the new concrete to give it the solid surface it needs for proper installation.

Share