Category: ‘Concrete’

Concrete Stain

July 28, 2011 Posted by admin

Chemical stains applied to new, old or remodeled concrete or construction is called as concrete stain. Containing metallic salts which react with the concrete and becoming a permanent part of the concrete, concrete stain is also known as acid stain. Black, brown and blue-green are the color groups that are manufactured by most concrete stain manufacturing companies.

When is stain applied?

Many contractors are of the opinion that stain should be applied immediately after the concrete is placed. This will give the stain a richer and more intense color. There are other contractors who advise that the concrete should cure for a period of ten to twenty-five days before stain can be applied to the concrete. But it is definitely advisable to finish the staining, sealing and the covering of finished work before the contractors move on. This will save time on cleanup and can also take care of damage repair while the construction is in progress.

How is concrete stain applied?

Concrete stains can be applied either using a sprayer or using a paintbrush. Although sprayers are used for the application of stains, care must be taken that the sprayers do not contain any metal parts and also rated low on acids. This is because the acids may affect the metal which in turn will affect the final color of the stain. Using a paintbrush can solve this problem. However it is important to take care that brush marks do not become too visible.

Factors that determine the final color of concrete stain

Besides the application of stain on concrete just after it is laid or after a certain number of days, there are other factors that play an important role in determining the final outcome of stain application. These could include the concrete used, its properties and its finishing quality, the weather conditions at the time of applying the stain and the concrete age and moisture content at the time of application.

Other equipment for applying stains

Some contractors may use a grinder or a buffing machine equipped with sanding pads. Power-washing equipment can also be put to good use when applying stain. Workers need to make use of proper safety equipment such as gloves, boots, goggles and facemasks. Equipment also needs to be acid-resistant. For a good cleanup after stain application, wet vacuums are highly recommended.

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Concrete Sealers

July 27, 2011 Posted by admin

Concrete sealers are used to seal gaps and leaks on concrete pavements, driveways, patios or even concrete counter tops in the kitchen. Made from synthetic epoxy resins, these sealers seal the gaps and probable leak areas and make the surface water-resistant and prevent water from penetrating into the concrete. Cracks and gaps that may allow moisture to seep in can be filled in using sealers.

Where are concrete sealers used?

Concrete countertops need water-resisting ability, which can be provided by using concrete sealers. They make the countertop quality superior and at the same time act as a waterproofing agent. Applied when the countertop is pre-cast or custom-made at site, two or three coats of a good concrete sealer will take care of all gaps and leaks and add a shiny touch to the kitchen work area. Concrete sealers are also used on pavements, driveways, patios and anything else that have concrete for a surface or work area. Sealers make them water-resistant and also reduce maintenance costs later on by providing

Why sealing is important?

Concrete sealing can prove to be beneficial in many ways. If used on driveways, it becomes easier to remove snow and ice from the path. Sealers strengthen the concrete surface whether on a kitchen counter top or a patio. Stains and spills that can leave behind ugly marks can be done away with sealers. Another important feature is that sealers help easy clean up.

Other advantages of sealers

Concrete sealers can also reduce the effort and energy put in to maintenance of concrete driveways or patios or even counter tops in kitchens. Although two or three sealer coatings may take up to a week for application, the final result that it can bring along with only a liquid wax shine or other simple clean up methods, sealers make it possible to give maintenance checks over a greater period of time. Wet basements can be another problem area. Sealers can seal gaps and cracks in the walls and joints and stop water leakage. This will stop moisture condensation and reduce mold and bad odors in basements.

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Concrete Saw

July 26, 2011 Posted by admin

Controlled cutting or sawing of concrete is done with the help of special equipment such as concrete saws which are equipped with diamond impregnated blades to ensure high quality cuts and also no more damage to the existing concrete. A concrete saw is a power tool that is used for cutting hard substances like concrete and requires water cooling. Handled by skilled and professional concrete cutting contractors, concrete cutting is made up of three kinds of activities such as wall sawing, core drilling and slab sawing, all requiring the use of different kinds of concrete saws.

Using concrete saws for different purposes

The choice of concrete saws depends upon the specific work to be undertaken. Wall sawing which is a process of cutting concrete for creating openings such as doors or windows require cuts into concrete that could measure between 12″ and 24″ in thickness. A 30″ concrete saw is used for this job. When horizontal cuts need to be made in existing concrete floors or slabs, concrete saws with various blade sizes are used depending upon the depth of the cuts. Professional concrete cutters are the best judges for these projects.

Variety of concrete saws available

The huge variety of concrete saws available includes those that are walk behind saws as well as propelled ones. The types of concrete saws supplied by most concrete saw manufacturers include concrete and asphalt saws, tile saws, paver and block saws, slab and stone saws, handheld cut-off saws, diamond concrete chain saws, crack chaser saws, green concrete saws, jamb saws and undercut saws and random cut saws.

Features of concrete saws

The concrete saws may be powered by gas, electricity or hydraulic power. Diesel may also be used in some cases. Saws are also available with a variety of diamond blades for cutting different types of material at one place. Insulation contractors and engineers need such special equipment and concrete saws are generally not bought by homeowners. However, a handyman may find hand-held concrete saws required for small concrete cutting jobs to be very useful. Many brands of concrete saws are available to particularly with concrete as well as asphalt cutting.

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Concrete Repair

July 25, 2011 Posted by admin

Concrete structures are prone to damages such as cracks and gaps due to weathering or constant wear and tear. Concrete has water content and sometimes this water may dry away leaving a gap or void in the concrete. These gaps may weaken the concrete and may result in more cracks or holes that further reduce the strength of the concrete structure. If left unattended, the concrete may become unstable. Structures such as bridges, roadways, high-rise buildings have been known to have suffered irreparable damage due to neglect or want of concrete repair.

When is concrete repair necessary?

Concrete foundation is known to develop cracks within a year of being constructed. If left unattended, it may cause further damage to the structure. Also since concrete surfaces are exposed to extreme weather conditions caused by snow, wind, rain and sun, regular concrete coating and sealing procedures need to be taken at timely intervals. Over a period of time, concrete loses its strength and when constantly exposed to foot traffic, gets damaged and needs replacement.

How is concrete repair done?

The extent to which the existing concrete needs to be repaired or replaced would depend upon the damage endured by the surface of the concrete. Patios, driveways, walkways or exteriors of the houses or buildings may require concrete cutting to remove broken parts of concrete and can be replaced with a new layer of concrete. Many a times, minimum work is required in terms of repair such as application of a coating or sealing agent to fix small gaps or cracks in the concrete. Home improvement material suppliers stock tools, equipment and other materials required for do-it-yourself home or garden concrete repair tasks.

Who can undertake a concrete repair job?

Small concrete repair tasks can be handled by homeowners or handymen with basic tools and materials available at any home improvement supply stores. In case of bigger structures such as building foundations, roadways, bridges and such other structures, it is highly recommended and observed that concrete repair jobs are handled by qualified and experienced concrete contractors and engineers who are well equipped to handle tasks of this kind.

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Concrete Removal

July 24, 2011 Posted by admin

Concrete removal is required when the concrete surfaces are beyond repair or patching. Trying to fix concrete that is beyond repair will only result in loss of time and money and will make the final décor look dirty and shoddy. Concrete removal may be carried out for a number of reasons.

When is concrete removal required?

Concrete removal may be required when deep cracks occur in existing concrete. Concrete slabs that have sunk in over a period of time are also best replaced. Very cold climates also cause concrete slabs to heave because of frost. At times, an addition may be made to a construction or building after a number of years. Concrete that is an obstacle in this kind of project may need to be removed. Faculty concrete construction may be another reason for concrete removal too. Street widening, roadways repairs may also require concrete to be removed, replaced or reconstructed.

Techniques used in concrete removal

Concrete demolition and removal processes use techniques such as pneumatic and hydraulic breakers for breaking down pavements, foundations and even bridge decks. Cutting of concrete structures and then removing them using cranes, known as dismantling is another effective way of concrete removal. Water jetting helps minimize dust and eliminates fire hazards. Large structures may be demolished using explosives although this is not a highly recommended technique for concrete demolition and removal. Concrete demolition and removal contractors are hired for such jobs which should never be considered as a do-it-yourself kind of project.

Safety measures while removing concrete

Using shovels for concrete removal may be the construction tool used by most concrete removal contractors or workers but may result in injuries to the back if not used properly. A few clothing and special equipment are also advised when handling concrete removal. Loose clothing is not recommended. Safety goggles and face-masks that will prevent dust inhalation and heavy gloves and appropriate shoes or boots are also to be included in the protective gear to be used by workers and contractors. Homeowners who may be supervising the work are also recommended the use of such protective gear.

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Concrete pump – all about pumping concrete

July 23, 2011 Posted by admin

Pumping is an efficient way of placing concrete while constructing buildings. This method is very economical and practical. This method of placing concrete proves to be very helpful while constructing high-rise buildings or while placing large slabs where the concrete truck cannot reach the concrete.

Types of concrete pumps

There are namely three types of pumps used to place concrete, namely, boom pump, line pumps and separate placing pumps. A boom truck is a self-constructed unit, which consists of a frame, a truck and pump through which it pumps concrete. This type of concrete pump is mainly used for concrete slabs and medium high-rise buildings and also for large volume commercial and industrial projects. On the other hand line pumps are versatile and portable units. They are used to pump not only structural concrete but also grout, wet screeds, mortar, shotcrete, formed concrete and sludge. Separate concrete placing booms are used as an alternative to boom truck.

Functioning of a concrete pump

The concrete is separated from the pump line with the help of certain lubricating materials such as water, cement and sand. It is very important to mix all the components in the right proportion and content. All the concrete mixtures should be specified as ‘pumpable’. There are many mixtures, which are not pumpable, and hence they get clogged in the pump-line. Hence it is very essential to choose the right kind of concrete mixture. After this the concrete is discharged into a truck.

Safety precautions

While using concrete you need to undertake certain precautions. It is advisable to choose the right kind of hose. Hose are manufactured for specific applications. They are designated as a point of placement for discharge. Also you have to be conscious about the attire you wear while handling concrete pumping. The clothes you wear should be well aerated and easily allow grout to escape. It is also important to use proper system for pumping concrete. The system should be properly tied-down and should not be accident-prone. It is also advisable to check the brakes of the machine too. The system should be regularly cleaned and maintained. The clogs, if any, should be removed and the system should be regularly cleaned with the help of compressed air.

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Concrete Planter

July 22, 2011 Posted by admin

Concrete planters are simply what one would call as giant flower pots. These planters are meant for holding plants just like normal flower pots. But they are also designed with another important aspect in mind, that of providing security to the building or home whose entrance they are placed. These concrete planters provide security by creating an entrance barrier to those who may wish to harm the security of the occupants. Concrete planters may be purchased from concrete planter manufacturers in readymade condition or may be custom-made for installation at business centers or big commercial buildings.

Features of concrete planters

Most concrete planters are pre-cast and ready manufactured. At times, they may also be custom-made for big business centers. Available in a variety of sizes, shapes, colors and designs, these concrete planters not only add to the aesthetic appeal of the exterior décor but also give that extra-secured feeling to the people occupying the residential or commercial building. They are low on maintenance and generally durable to a great extent.

Where are concrete planters used?

Concrete planters are ideal for hotels, restaurants, business centers and shopping centers. They are typically used as beautiful additions to the home and garden surroundings and are found in both residential as well as commercial buildings. Concrete planters may be integrated in the architectural design of a new construction or may be added to the building site at a later stage. These concrete planters are also used in front of important business centers or office for regulating foot traffic as well as being able to take care of other security concerns such as attacks and threats. The huge size of these planters makes it impossible for any vehicle to come into the vicinity of the buildings.

Where to look for a concrete planter?

Concrete planter manufacturers can be located from any local area directory or the yellow pages. Home building associations may also be able to provide information about such suppliers or manufacturers. The Internet also has many websites put up by such manufacturers and suppliers, through which they can be contacted. These websites allow the buyer to take a look at concrete planter shapes, sizes and designs and the prices at which they are available.

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Concrete Pipe

July 21, 2011 Posted by admin

Concrete pipes have been known to exist for more than a thousand years. Being a long lasting and structurally strong material, a concrete pipe is generally used to conduct water supply or serve as drains in both rural and urban areas. Most concrete pipe water supply as well as drainage and sewer systems that have been constructed in the earlier century still stand strong and function as efficiently as when they had first been constructed.

Concrete pipe shapes and sizes

Concrete pipes are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. The five most common shapes include the circular, horizontal elliptical, the vertical elliptical, the arch and the rectangular ones. The shape of the pipe would depend upon the project or activity in which it is to be used. It would also depend upon the topography of the site, the cost and the structural efficiency of the project as well. Since concrete pipes are mostly used as conduit material, they are generally used where they would help in the natural flow of water supply or drainage as the case may be.

How are concrete pipes made?

There are many ways of making concrete pipes. Some of these methods use dry concrete mix to make concrete pipes. These methods include the centrifugal or spinning method, the dry cast method, the packerhead method and the tamp-entail method. Another method of making concrete pipes called the wet casting method makes use of a high-slump concrete mix. The basic materials for making concrete pipes are the same as for other concrete products such as cement, gravel, sand and water. In some projects, steel reinforcements may also be used for adding more strength to the concrete pipe structure.

Uses of concrete pipes

Concrete pipes have been used in irrigation systems, water supply lines, sanitary sewers, storm drains. Concrete pipes are the best conduit material for supply of water to farmlands and also for water supply to large cities as well. Most drainage systems also make use of concrete pipes. Storm drain systems play a very important role in crowded towns and cities and help in reducing the damage caused by floods.

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Concrete pavers – the beauty catalysts

July 20, 2011 Posted by admin

Today one cannot help but look into the very basic grounds for beautification of cities. Pavements play a vital role in making the roads and streets look attractive. Concrete pavers are a latest trend. Because of the eye catching exterior and the easy installation, they are in great demand. And luckily there are available in a variety of styles however since they are manufactured and supplied on regional basis, all the types are not available everywhere.

Uses:

Pavers can be used in many places other than just streets. They are being widely used playgrounds, patios, driveways, airport runways and many other places. They are useful in both, commercial as well as domestic areas. Their diverse textures and colors make them all the more popular in places where appearance is given high priority.

What makes concrete pavers so unique?

The best part about concrete pavers is that they can easily find harmony with the surrounding. They can be made to look colorful by mixing pavers of two different colors. And this doesn’t put an end to the list of pros of pavers. Pavers also are available in blended colors. They can help to give the final look of homes.

The outward look and installation:

Depending on the soil conditions the right type of base should be built. When these two factors are taken care of, the installation becomes an easy process.

One important aspect that needs to be considered while selecting the right pavers is the thickness. Different places require different pavers. For example, the ones found on the airport runway will be different in strength, texture and thickness, than the ones seen around a swimming pool.

In case of damage:

One issue will play an important role during decision-making process. This is the issue of repair incase of damage. But this is hardly a matter to be worried about, since pavers can be as easily removed and replaced as they are installed. They also do not cause other damage while the repair is being done. They are very user friendly.

Contractors:

Since the installation is not that a difficult process one may feel that the requirement of a contractor is not very important. But this is a misconception. Contractors play a very important role. The selection of the proper contractor should be made after considering his experience. The decision of the type and color of pavers is very important. Contractors therefore need to be consulted or hired for this job.

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Concrete Patio

July 19, 2011 Posted by admin

A patio is an extension of the home. The outdoors is another place to look at besides the home for entertainment, relaxation or even a barbeque party. A concrete patio can be a great outdoor entertainment as well as party area or simply used for a good cooking time for lunch or dinner. More and more people are finding the patios a great place to enjoy the outdoors while being in the vicinity of their homes.

Popular outdoor living

Concrete patios offer versatility in terms of use of space and also are durable that they can make a good resting place in most types of weathers. Some furniture placed on the patio can serve as seating arrangement and a modest kitchen can also be set up in case the family is also interested in cooking outdoors. Most back yards now have concrete patios that are convenient to maintain and use and can serve as luxurious extensions to the home.

Setting up a concrete patio

Stone, tiles or stamped concrete is used for putting up a patio. Depending upon the area available, the patio can be redesigned to accommodate furniture, decorative fountains, relaxing armchairs or even kitchen utilities. Its versatility arises from the fact that concrete can be shaped into any pattern. This gives enormous scope for designing the look of the patio and combining a great landscape design and home décor to give a visual treat to any visitor or even the family members.

Designing a concrete patio

Concrete patios can be designed to complement the outdoor landscape or could be another extension of the home interior décor. Homeowners may want a design that looks uniform and makes the patio look like a part of the home. Some however would want the patio to have a distinctively stylish look. This can be achieved with pebbles or decorative stones, tints and paints, patterned or stamped concrete or concrete that has been molded to resemble any other material. Combining concrete with most other materials like brick, stone, tile and wood, a concrete patio can easily blend with the surroundings and at the same time be a perfect complement to a swimming pool or a deck or even an outdoor kitchen area.

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