Resources and Services
Consumer Guides
Installing Concrete
The term “set in concrete” implies permanence, so pouring concrete is one of the most important home improvements to do right the first time, because no one would want to have to do it over again. Most consumers hire a professional, licensed concrete contractor to add concrete to their property because professionals are usually best equipped to know how much of what kind of concrete is needed, and will be responsible for having it properly delivered and finished.
However, there may be times a homeowner may choose to have the concrete delivered directly, perhaps to pay the concrete delivery company separately from the contractor, or because he is confident he can finish it himself or with help from other non-professionals.
It is important that the site is prepared before the concrete truck arrives, including all forms set and the ground properly leveled and moistened, if necessary. Concrete delivery companies may schedule several pours in a row and will charge extra if the driver has to wait idle on any site because it is not ready for the pour.
If concrete is to be poured where the delivery truck cannot reach, the concrete will need to be carried by wheelbarrow or pumped by an independent concrete pumping company if it is too much to wheelbarrow. This is usually coordinated by the contractor or the concrete delivery company.
The proportion of mix to water must be right in order for concrete to be strong enough for its application. Foundations require less water than flat slabs, for instance.
Concrete does not “dry” but cures. Usually, the more slowly concrete cures, the stronger and less likely it will be to crack. Usually water must be sprayed on poured concrete several times a day for up to a week to make sure it does not cure too fast. It’s also important that the soil under poured concrete is wet so the dry soil does not absorb water from the concrete, causing it to cure too fast.
No matter how well concrete is poured, however, no contractor can guarantee concrete will never crack. Tiny surface hairline cracks are not uncommon and will not affect strength or performance of finished concrete.
More Popular Entries
Additions & Remodels
More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Easy Financing Options for Remodeling
Basement Remodeling Basics
Agents (Real Estate), Appraisers & Home Inspectors
Home Inspections
Choosing a Mortgage
Condominiums
Appliances
Installing Appliances
Selecting Major Appliances
Repair Dishwasher and Water Damage
Builders (New Homes), Architects & Designers
Taking the Mystery Out of Kitchen Design
Workout Room
Appraisals
Carpentry & Cabinets
Tip: Dealing with Dryrot
Cabinet Options
Tip: Repair Laminate Countertops
Cleaning Services
Carpet Care Tips
Ways to Clean Your Carpet
Choosing a Carpet Cleaning Service
Concrete, Brick & Stone
Taking Care of Your Chimney and Fireplace
Wunderbar Rebar!
Repair Cinderblock Foundation
Consumer Guides
Appliance Maintenance
Laundry Room Solutions
Getting Your Home Ready for Winter
Design Ideas
Skylights
Add a Hot Tub to Your Deck
Stylish Entry
Electrical, Telephone & Data
Saving On Electrical Repairs
Convenient Electrical Fixtures
“Install Switches, Outlets and Fixtures”
Expert Advice
Cost of Siding
Workout Room
Pouring Concrete Driveway or Walkway
Flooring
Carpet Care In Depth
Steam Cleaning Grout
Choosing the Best Carpet for Your Home
Handyman Services
Avoiding Home Repair Rip-offs
Some Assembly Required
The Benefits of Weatherstripping
Heating & Cooling
Moisture Balance with a Humidifier System
Tip: Winterize Swamp Cooler for Long Service
Tip: Types of Geo Thermal Heating Systems
Home Construction
More Return on Your Home Improvement Investment
Checklist: Recommended Questions to Ask a Contractor
Do-It-Yourself Compared to Hiring a Pro
Landscape, Decks & Fences
Different Styles of Landscaping
The Right Barn or Shed For You
Picket Fences Add Charm
Moving & Storage
Some Assembly Required
Preparing a House for Sale
Stowing it Away: Where to Put It
Other Services
Tip: Repair Hot Tub
Earthquake Retrofitting
Increase Your Home’s Curb Appeal
Painting & Staining
Applying Faux Finishes
Paint Textures and Finishes
Tip: Roller Marks - Interior Paint
Plumbing
Understanding Plumbing Systems
Plumbing Addition Ideas
Safe Drinking Water
Quick Tips
Tip: Termite Control
Tip: Insulation Basics
Checklist: Hiring a Real Estate Agent
Roofing, Siding & Gutters
Install or Replace Flat Roofing
Modern Roofing Options
General Roofing Information
SP Feature Article
The Internet Will Change the Buying of Services
Walls & Ceilings
Create a Turn-of-the-Century Look With Metal Ceilings
Acoustic Ceiling Cleaning
Wall and Ceiling Cleaning
Windows & Doors
Installing the Correct Blinds or Shades
Choosing Between Blinds or Shades
Know the Kind of Custom Window You Want