Materials
Materials
We take special care in placing control joints much closer than the maximum distance recommended by Indiana State specifications. Control joints (scores) will relieve the stress imposed by curing, which is uncontrollable, by allowing the slab to crack in the straight joints rather than at random.
The wire mentioned above will prevent the sections of concrete from "heaving". This happens when moisture, which runs in the cracks, freezes and, just like an ice cube, expands. When this process is repeated many times over in just one winter, the results can be surprising.
Another problem we are faced with here in Indiana is the type of aggregate most often used in concrete. The aggregate delivered, unless otherwise specified, is native river rock. The great glaziers that flattened most of Indiana deposited this rock here. Some of the rock is soft, sedimentary aggregate like Shale. When these rocks are situated near the surface of the concrete, they absorb moisture and again in the winter will freeze, expand, and flake the top of your new concrete. That is why we use Class A Crushed Stone in our concrete to minimize moisture absorption and fiber mesh to help retain surface stone expansion. Fiber mesh is millions of strands of durable fiberglass that surround each stone and create a strong consistent mesh throughout the slab.
Another preventative step we take is to seal the surface of our work with an industrial strength cure and seal compound. This sealant allows minimal-to-no water penetration, depending on the sealer type and number of coats. It is suggested to reseal your investment at least once in the fall or, even better, once in the spring and in the fall. Just clean the surface well with detergent, bleach, or plain water, let dry completely, then spray the clear liquid on with an ordinary pump-up lawn sprayer or roll on with short nap rollers.
Structurally correct concrete can last many generations. We do all we can to be professionals at the forefront of concrete servicing Any question are welcome and will be answered to the best of our ability. All suggestions are considered and appreciated.
