What Does a Concrete Contractor Do?

Concrete contractors handle construction or repairs of concrete-related projects. They often work on residential and commercial projects, including (but not limited to) sidewalks, driveways, and roads.

They are responsible for building forms, mixing concrete, spreading it, adding small stones, applying stains and waterproofing to the final product. Moreover, they are also involved in the inspection process.

Decorative Concrete

Concrete is a strong and durable material that can be used in a variety of applications in both commercial and residential settings. While most people think of concrete as a utilitarian gray material, there is actually a wide range of ways that it can be made to look attractive for floors, patios, walkways, driveways and more. Decorative concrete is a form of concrete that has been modified through various techniques to add color, texture and visual appeal to traditional concrete structures.

These methods include, but are not limited to, stained concrete, acid staining, stamped concrete, stenciled patterns and exposed aggregate finishes. These techniques can be applied to both new and existing concrete.

Staining concrete involves using dyes or stains that are added to the wet concrete during the pouring process or after it has hardened. The stains can give the concrete a rich color that looks much like stone, tile, brick or wood. Once the concrete has been stained, it can be sealed for protection and to maintain the color.

Residential Concrete

Concrete can be found in many areas of your home, from foundations and slabs to patios, driveways and walkways. Whether your project is small or large, a residential concrete contractor can help you find the right mix, install formwork and follow proper curing practices to ensure a strong, durable result.

It’s often less expensive to hire a professional than to buy and pour the concrete yourself, especially for larger projects. However, DIY costs can vary, so it’s important to compare quotes from multiple companies before making a decision.

Decorative concrete is becoming more and more popular in homes, with contractors creating concrete countertops, floors and other surfaces that are both functional and beautiful. Look for contractors that have photos of their work on their websites or social media, and ask about extras like staining and stamp designs. These can add to the overall cost of your project.

Commercial Concrete

Concrete is the backbone of many construction projects. It is used in walls, floors and exterior walkways as well as for structural support. A commercial concrete contractor is responsible for a variety of tasks related to these construction projects.

They have the experience and equipment to handle large scale projects, and will work closely with architects, engineers and construction managers to ensure that all concrete work meets all specifications and regulations. Concrete contractors are often licensed by their state, and must meet minimum requirements like a criminal background check and posted bond to be allowed to work.

Concrete can be made in a number of different ways, and can be used for endless applications. For example, some types of concrete are designed to deal with flooding and other environmental issues. One type, known as pervious concrete, absorbs water, which reduces problems like puddles and pools on roadways or airport runways. Another type of concrete is smart concrete, which uses sensors to monitor structures after an earthquake.

Concrete Repairs

Concrete contractors often do a lot of repair work. They will help fix potholes and uneven surfaces in roads, sidewalks, driveways, and parking lots. This can be done with a process called concrete leveling or mud jacking. It involves drilling small holes, then adding concrete to raise the level of a slab or other surface. It is less invasive than replacing the concrete and is environmentally friendly.

Not all cracks in concrete need repair. If they are small and don’t pose a safety hazard, homeowners may choose to fill them in. This will help prevent water and pests from getting in, and it also improves the appearance of the concrete.

Wide horizontal cracks, however, are a sign of structural damage to the concrete. This needs to be addressed quickly by a professional, as it can lead to collapse or foundation problems in the house. A specialist will be able to determine the cause and recommend the best solution.

from Concrete Toowoomba Specialist https://ift.tt/60FgYd1
via IFTTT