One of the most common issues that your concrete can face is cracks and depending on how far the cracks go into the concrete, it can signal when your concrete will need to be repaired or completely replaced. There are different reasons for cracks ending up on your concrete and different ways that you can have it repaired. However, rather than dealing with cracks that may appear on your concrete, you’ll find that there are different reasons and methods and that can help avoid this.
Common Stresses Causing Cracks
A variety of elements can cause concrete to crack ranging from something as simple as aging to harsher elements like heavy weather. Some stressful elements that can cause concrete cracks and you can avoid are excess water, poor sub-grade preparation, and improper curing. When it comes to excess water, rather than water build-up, it refers to excess water in the cement mix.
If you are doing any DIY work with cement, it is best to check on any water measurements or refer to a professional service group. The same can be said for the other stress elements as improper cement/concrete preparation can be the main factor leading to cracks.
How to Avoid Common Cracks
It would certainly help to have a professional service group to assist in ensuring any concrete project runs smoothly, but even with one, it is always good to note what can be done to avoid cracks overall. For cracks stemming from issues like excess water or otherwise, the following methods are the best way to avoid these:
Add Control Joints
Otherwise known as contraction joints, these pieces can be made in three different ways. One is having them formed in still-pliable wet concrete using a concrete grooving tool. Another is having expansion joint sticks, which are made of flexible wood fibres, inserted during the pouring process.
As for the third option, you can have them cut into the concrete slab the day after you pour using a circular saw fitted with a concrete blade. Following an observation that can reach a year, sealant can be placed over the joints.
Add Steel Reinforcement
An alternative or additional measure aside from adding control joints would be to add steel reinforcement. For concrete projects like patios and walkways, this might mean adding rebar in a grid pattern with the bars set about two feet apart and sitting halfway through the slab. On the other hand, smaller projects would have wire mesh during the pour to improve strength and reduce cracking.
Ensure Proper Curing
Well-done curing for a concrete project can do a lot for it in the long run. Generally, it takes 28 days for concrete to completely cure. During the initial curing process, it is recommended to prolong the moisture evaporation for a stronger finish by spraying it with water a few times each day for the first week after you’ve poured the project. Should there be any occurrence of cold weather, it is advised to have the project covered until the time passes that the concrete no longer needs spraying or covering. This process should take about a week on the first stage of the curing process.
How Rockhampton Concreters Can Help
With different concrete issues and solutions that can be done, a good way to make sure that your concrete project ends up with a long-lasting and durable finish would be to consult with a professional service group. There are a variety of different services that can help with any concreting needs and one of them is Rockhampton Concreters.
Rockhampton Concreters is an experienced group of professionals that have worked on a variety of different concreting projects and can assure quality results and reliable specialists you can consult. Whether it be determining the best method to secure against cracks or covering everything your concrete project may need, you can find help with Rockhampton Concreters.
Conclusion
Concrete is one of the most durable materials you can choose for your property, but without the proper preparation or installation, it can easily be prone to cracking. Some of the best ways to avoid this would be to add joints or even a reinforcement. While there are also outside elements like heavy weather that can cause cracks, a good prevention of cracks can do a lot for the structure.
