Identifying Concrete Problems

Ready mix concrete is a convenient and versatile building material that is ideal for many construction projects. However, it needs to be used properly for the best possible results.

The following are seven things to know to achieve the best possible results with ready mix concrete. 

The site preparation tasks you need to take care of beforehand

When you're using ready mix concrete, you need to be able to work quickly because concrete can dry fast once it has been mixed. Completely preparing the site before you begin can make it more efficient to pour ready mix concrete while also ensuring good results. 

Make sure that you prepare the site by getting all the tools you'll need out and ready before you start mixing. You should also make sure that the sub-base you're pouring over has been thoroughly compacted to achieve an even finish on the surface of your poured concrete. 

The process you should go through to correctly place your forms

The forms that hold your concrete in place shouldn't allow any leaks and shouldn't bow outwards. Make sure that your forms are firmly secured so that they will not move out of place when the force of the concrete is pushing against them. 

The best ready-mix concrete formulation for your needs

There are a variety of different ready-made concrete formulas available that have different additives and aggregate proportions depending on the unique needs of building sites and construction projects.

Ready mix concrete can be designed for general-purpose needs or for varying levels of sulfate resistance. A ready mix concrete could also be formulated for low heat of hydration or high early strength for high-performance needs.

Make sure to consider ready mix concrete options and to choose the best option for the unique demands of your construction job. 

The amount of time you need to leave the forms in place

Removing concrete forms too quickly after you put down ready mix concrete could allow your concrete to warp as it dries. Be sure to wait several days until your concrete has completely cured before you remove concrete forms. 

The importance of using reinforcing materials

Although concrete is a strong material, it can offer much more structural strength if reinforcement is used within concrete forms. For most construction applications, concrete should be reinforced with materials such as steel mesh or steel rebar. 

The importance of the weather

If at all possible, you should only pour ready mix concrete in weather conditions that don't involve precipitation or temperature extremes. Otherwise, your concrete could be difficult to mix and pour due to excessive water content or frozen/rapidly evaporating water content.

The correct proportion of concrete mix and water

If you use too much water when preparing your ready mix concrete, the resulting concrete slab may be structurally weakened. If you don't use enough water, you will unnecessarily complicate the task of pouring your concrete and spreading it into your forms.

Be sure to carefully follow instructions about mixing up the correct proportions of concrete mix and water to achieve strong and properly formed concrete slabs. To learn more, contact a ready-mix concrete supplier today.