Concrete is one of the most widely used building materials on the planet. It’s also relatively inexpensive and safe to use.

However, there are some things you need to know before you begin mixing. If you want to get the job done right, take a few minutes to learn about concrete. Also, if you are looking for the best concrete contractors in West Valley City, UT, please follow the link given.

What is Concrete?

Concrete is a composite material, typically composed of fine and coarse aggregate bonded together with a fluid cement that hardens over time. It is a very versatile, durable, and cost-effective construction material.

It is the most common building material in use, and can be found on roads, bridges, buildings, canals, dams, missile silos, nuclear waste containment sites, and many other places around the world.

The ingredients of concrete, including water and cement, are proportioned to produce a specific strength and durability for each project. Admixtures, such as pozzolans or superplasticizers, are also often used to change the physical properties of the wet mix, delay or accelerate curing time, or otherwise enhance the finished product.

Water plays a key role in producing concrete, as it activates the cement to harden it into a solid mass. It also helps to set the cement hydration process and produces crystals that interlock and bind together.

Mixing Concrete

Mixing concrete is the first step towards creating a sturdy, durable project. However, it can be difficult to get a good mix without a lot of practice.

You can make a good batch of concrete on your own by following a few basic steps. Before you start, make sure to wear safety glasses and a dust mask to avoid getting your eyes, skin or lungs burned.

Once you have all the dry ingredients in your wheelbarrow, you can mix the concrete using a mortar hoe or a flat shovel. Be sure to mix the dry material until it’s homogenous before adding water.

Once the mix is a good consistency, pour in a measured amount of water (about three-quarters of the recommended water per 80-pound bag). Pour it into the center of the dry concrete and fold it in with the shovel. Continue mixing with the shovel, paddling it through the concrete like you would canoeing until all the water is absorbed.

Placement of Concrete

The placement of concrete is a crucial phase in the construction process, as it determines the strength and durability of a structure. Care must be taken throughout this process, from the mixing stage through to the finished product.

Various techniques are required to ensure the correct placement of concrete and to avoid problems during the concrete pouring and finishing stages. During this time, a number of technical and climatic parameters must be carefully observed to prevent issues such as cold joints, honeycombing, porosity and discoloration from occurring.

Before a concrete pour begins, the ground surface must be free from loose earth and other organic matters such as grass, leaves, ice etc. This will protect the surface from damage and allow the concrete to set properly.

Finishing Concrete

Concrete is an extremely versatile material, and comes in a variety of colors, textures, and finishes. Finishes are a key aspect of any concrete project because they protect the surface from water, frost, corrosion, and abrasion.

A basic finish is achieved by screeding the concrete to level it and force larger aggregate particles below the surface (Photo 1). Next, the concrete should be floated by hand or machine to embed these larger aggregates, remove humps and voids, and prepare the concrete for further finishing.

When floating the concrete, don’t work it until all the surface “bleed” water has disappeared and the concrete is dry. Working the concrete before this happens will weaken the slab’s surface.

Once the slab is dry, a concrete trowel can be used to spread it into an even, smooth surface. This type of concrete finish can be used on floors or walls and is a good option for areas that need an even, smooth surface.