Expert Concrete Contractors Offer a Wide Range of Projects
When you need concrete construction work done, you need to use a contractor who understands more than just how to mix and pour cement. The best concrete companies hire crews with diverse talents and knowledge for a complex subject.
Starting With Concrete
The most important skill is, of course, knowing the intricacies of pouring concrete. Only experienced paving and concrete companies understand the three-dimensional aspects of cement and the required ground support. They must also choose the ideal mix for the job, selecting among a variety of
- Admixtures
- Aggregates
- Mix designs
- Reinforcing products, such as rebar
- Surface textures
- Water ratios
Interpreting client plans is one of the most difficult part of pouring concrete. It’s tricky for a range of reasons, including
- Site preparation
- Approaches
- Easements
- Flow lines and volume
- Footings and foundations
- Gutters and drainage
Designing Custom Concrete
Each job requires its own design. The concrete contractor must plan for whatever will be added to the slab. Anchor bolts must be laid in advance along with plumbing and electrical. Weight requirements must be known as well as matching the mix to the weather.
Your concrete is going to shrink as it slowly evaporates its water. Control joints have to be placed in ideal locations based on the mix, weather and loading. Inexperienced concrete layers tend to make these joints too shallow or too far apart, causing ugly stress fracturing.
Offering A Range of Projects
The best contractors have thousands of completed projects under their belt. There are so many different uses for concrete it’s impossible to list them all. Some of the most common include
- Foundations
- Slabs
- Paving
- Site development
- Water channels and sewer lines
- Driveways
- Patios
- Decorative masonry
- Retaining walls
- Steps
- Sidewalks
Many of these jobs are surprisingly complex. For instance, sidewalks that are poured improperly usually buckle and crack, creating a hazard that can result in lawsuits. Also, handicap ramps are highly grade sensitive and may require ADA compliance.
All sorts of issues frequently crop up with unskilled concrete construction. Not only is the job complicated, it also requires the right tools and a widely skilled team. That’s why all the experts recommend hiring a master concrete contractor.