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Tag: Pouring the New Concrete

How do I start a construction project?

How do I start a construction project?

If you are eyeing a construction project such as a driveway or an additional room in your house, then you must plan. Even if it is a small patio project, it can be stressful and time-consuming if don’t have a plan. A concrete contractor will tell you that the secret to a successful construction project is how well you planned it.

Here are five steps that can help you plan a successful construction project.

Have a Ready Design

Hiring a designer or an architect is an additional cost to your project, but it ensures you have a good deck that will fit in your backyard. It also ensures that your deck complements your house. You wouldn’t want to make your design and end up tearing it down once completed because it looks “off”. Much worse, you wouldn’t want to just go ahead and start construction work without a plan – that will surely waste your time and money.

What’s included in the design? It includes the layout, the size of the project, and how it will look once done.

Find Concrete Contractors

Once you have a design, you can now find a contractor. Based on your schema, you can get a better estimate of how much your project will cost. In finding a contractor, take your time. Ask around. Ask for recommendations. Interview potential concrete companies. Don’t rely on one option. Make a checklist and choose based on qualifications, license, and portfolio.

 

Set Your Budget

How much is your budget? Do you have a budget for miscellaneous expenses? What if there will be delays with materials, is it okay to extend the deadline? What if your chosen material is not available, can you switch to something more expensive without affecting your budget?

You must have a fixed budget and an emergency budget before starting your construction project. This way, possible delays won’t leave you hanging and won’t cause your project’s delay in completion as well.

Do Your Part

What is your part? Aside from finding the best concrete company to hire, you have to work on securing your project permits too. Depending on your state’s policy, you might need to secure more than one permit. Aside from building permits, some states that require environmental permits and so on. Permits are especially needed if there is digging that needs to be done.

Oh, you have to pay for permits too so include that in your budget.

You Can Now Start

Some homeowners leave everything to their concrete contractors once everything is set up. This is okay yet I prefer to be present whenever I have a construction project. One reason why I follow a plan is so I can set my schedule and be at the site during work hours. This way, I can monitor the progress of the project in real-time and be able to address issues that may potentially arise.

Takeaway

Starting a construction project correctly can be overwhelming and taxing, however, if you do everything right, you can expect a smoother construction project with no wasted time, money, and energy. Do you already have a project in mind? Why not try these steps today before you start your construction project!

 

How to pour new concrete over old cracked concrete?

How to pour new concrete over old cracked concrete?

Have you heard of the life saying that says ‘nothing last forever? That is true even with concrete surfaces. Concrete is known for its durability and very life span, still, it is susceptible to cracks and chips. Don’t worry though, concrete is easy to maintain and repair. One of the best ways to repair concrete cracks is by pouring new concrete. Pouring new concrete over an old one is also a way to redesign your floor.

Most concrete contractors find it easy to pour new concrete over old ones. If you are not sure if you can do it alone, here four basic steps to do so. Still, it is best to hire a professional concrete contractor if you are not experienced in this kind of job.

Four Steps to Pour New Concrete Over an Old One

Clean the old surface

The effectiveness of a newly poured concrete relies on how well the new concrete will bond with the old one. To do so, make sure that the old concrete is well cleaned. Sweep the surface to remove debris, small stones, sand, and gravel. Use a broom to remove debris from cracks or a pressure washer. Use degreaser or liquid soap to remove all dirt and stains. Use scrub if necessary.

Setup the Perimeter of Where to Pour the New Concrete

Use wood when setting up the perimeter. The perimeter will ensure that the new concrete will only be poured on where it is needed. The braces will also keep the poured concrete even on the surface. If pouring a thick slab of concrete, you must add wire within the braces for added strength.

Pouring the New Concrete

Once the old concrete is cleaned and the perimeter is set, you can now pour the new concrete. For the new concrete, it is best to have smaller stones for the mixture. Once poured, use a trovel or a paver to make the pour more even.

Leave it to Dry and Cure It

The curing process of new concrete is the same as any concrete construction. Concrete contractors often leave newly poured concrete for up to 28 days for proper curing. During curing, it is important to keep the concrete wet from time to time.

When to Pour New Concrete?

Some people might say it is best to just replace an old concrete slab rather than cover it with a new one. This is a case-to-case basis though. It is best to pour new concrete into old ones if you just want to cover unlikely concrete surfaces. It is the best way to hide surface imperfections. It is a cheap way to remedy discoloration problems and to replace old finishing.

For some concrete contractors, pouring new concrete is also the best way to repair cracks.

Takeaway

Pouring new concrete over an old one can be a DIY project especially if you have the tools needed. Still, for the best result, it is best to contact a professional concrete contractor. A concrete contractor can even assess if pouring in new concrete is better than replacing the entire surface .