Nothing seems to generate mail like failed concrete surfaces. There are many myths out there about deicing salts and scaled or spalling concrete. People think that salts hurt concrete. Contractors hide behind this weak excuse when a driveway or sidewalk fails. The simple truth is that strong, properly placed and finished concrete can resist salts and freezing temperatures for many years.
Looking for companies that sell deicing salts and magnesium chloride? Look no further than your Yellow Pages ... and this article.
Are you getting ready to install a new concrete driveway, concrete sidewalk, or concrete patio and/or steps that may be exposed to freezing temperatures and deicing salts? If the job gets done right, your concrete will last longer than you!
Jello® and concrete - you both mix a solid with a liquid in order to get the final product, right? But while Jello® uses the coldness of the refrigerator to harden, concrete actually slows hardening in cold temperatures. This can be disastrous if you don't take the right precautions. Read about why this happens in the following column.
Working with concrete in the cold can be miserable, especially when you are working with concrete pouring. One mistake can mess up the entire concrete construction project! Here are a few tips to follow that tell you how to pour concrete in cold conditions.
Installing concrete in the cold, whether it is concrete flooring or other concrete forms, requires some tips and tricks in order to ensure it gains proper strength. The following is a checklist for you to follow when installing concrete in cold weather.
Concrete is probably one of the most abused construction materials that I am aware of. It is treated with very little respect by many of the people who install it. The problem, I believe, is the fact that a huge percentage of the individuals who work with this wonderful construction product do not realize that it is a very technical building material.
Water can be concrete's worst enemy as it is being placed or finished. However, after concrete has been properly placed and finished, it is extremely critical that the moist concrete be cured. There are several ways to ensure that your concrete remains moist, and curing compounds are the key. To defend against freezing/thawing water damage that occurs in concrete, consider applying a sealant.
I intend to write a book about concrete; the subject fascinates me. However, in the meantime, read as much as you can about this wonderful material. Consider obtaining as many publications as possible from the Portland Cement Association and the American Concrete Institute. Also, check out the following list of manufacturers of concrete curing compounds and sealants for your next job.
Concrete driveways, walks and patios can be a source of complaint from homeowners. Concrete that will remain in shape for years needs great strength, the right amount of water, proper curing, control joints and installation during optimal weather.
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