When correctly done, concrete is one of the most durable and long-lasting building materials you can use. Yet, it is essential that a concrete service abides by recognized guidelines for the placement of concrete. Strong, durable, and crack-resistant concrete does not just happen to exist. These are some tips for avoiding concrete cracks:
Cure Properly
Although it requires 28 days to properly cure, the actions you do in the first few days following the pour are the most important for producing a strong, crack-free surface. The cement must be allowed to retain moisture while it gradually dries out in order to reach its optimum strength. It will be considerably stronger if you spray your construction with water many times each day for the first week after you pour it since concrete is less likely to crack if the moisture evaporates gradually. Fresh concrete should be sprayed more often as the temperature and humidity increase.
Add Control Joints
Even if you cure your concrete gradually as described above, a big slab, such as a patio or sidewalk, may still fracture because concrete shrinks when temperatures change and water is used up throughout the hydration process. Because of the natural movement of the earth underneath them, concrete slabs ultimately crack. This is why control joints are essential. These deliberate weak spots are cut into the slab down to around a fifth of its depth to anticipate and guide any forthcoming cracks.
Combine the Right Amount of Water
One of the biggest mistakes that DIYers who are new to concrete make is adding excessive quantities of water to the dry concrete mix to help with mixing. The concrete becomes more brittle and prone to breaking as a result. Concrete can lose up to 40% of its strength with only one extra quart of water! When properly mixed, wet concrete should be completely saturated but not watery. Concrete that spills around in the mixer or wheelbarrow, as opposed to brittle, broken-up concrete, which suggests an overly dry state, is a symptom of a too-wet state.
If you need a quality concrete service in Egg Harbor Township, NJ, trusting a professional like Zamora Concrete & Masonry LLC is the right choice. Don’t hesitate to give us a call at (609) 232-8209 right away.