5 Mistakes To Avoid While Handling Ready Mix Concrete

Whether you are constructing your home from scratch or planning a home improvement project, durability should be the top priority. For this reason, it becomes critical to invest in ready mix concrete because this material assures durability over the years. However, you need to be extra careful while choosing the mix because if it is not manufactured or installed properly, you will not be able to get the best benefits from the investment. Additionally, you should ensure that the ready mix is handled and poured in the right way to make it last and retain its durability and strength.

Here are some mistakes that you need to avoid while handling ready mix concrete for your home construction or renovation project.

Mistake #1: Not preparing the site

The construction site needs to be readied before you get the ready mix delivered and installed. Failing to prepare the site will sabotage the project right at its initial stage and there will not be much that you can do to undo the damage. Primarily, the sub-base needs to be compacted well enough or the surface finish will be weak and uneven, regardless of the application of a top-quality ready mix. Making use of the right consistency gravel is equally important; otherwise, the risk of weak points is elevated. Also, using too thin a layer of gravel can result in settling.

Mistake #2: Not reinforcing the concrete floor

No doubt ready mix concrete is strong and durable but there is still much more that can be done to improve its tensile strength. Reinforcing the concrete floor with steel is recommended to enhance its strength. You can opt for steel mesh, fibers or bars for reinforcement, as recommended by experts. The reinforcement material should be used with care because poor shaping can do more harm than good and will leave you with more problems in the end.

Mistake #3: Not preparing the mix correctly

A good mix is to be prepared with great care. It requires an optimal balance between cement, aggregates and water, something which is hard to achieve unless it is done by an expert. Mixing the concrete wrong can lead to complete wastage. The most feasible option for homeowners is to buy the best option for ready mix concrete from a reputed construction material supplier in your area. Suppliers have the right expertise and experience that makes them capable of preparing the proper mix according to the construction requirements. This turns out to be a worthy investment in the long run because it will make the construction durable and lasting over the years.

Mistake #4: Pouring in bad weather

Another blunder that you can make is by pouring the mix in bad weather. Extreme weather, either too hot or too cold, can cause the water to evaporate or freeze too quickly. On the other hand, rain can also change the consistency of ready mix concrete. Bad weather can end up compromising the quality and durability of the construction. The best time for getting the concrete poured at your construction site is warm and clear days. When you order the mix, make sure that you take the required precautions and have the mix delivered and poured during the optimal weather conditions.

Mistake #5: Poor finishing work

Laying the concrete at your construction site is just half the work done. Finishing is equally important, whether it is about installing concrete in the foundations, garage floor, stairs or shed base. Compacting the concrete properly is critical because it ensures durability and strength in the long run. Also, you must get the concrete leveled up to give it a smooth appearance. Proper finishing is mandatory if you want to get true worth from your investment in ready-mix concrete, both in terms of appearance and durability.

Another thing that you should ensure is to buy superior quality and well-tested product from a reputed local supplier. Do get recommendations from other homeowners who have bought from the same supplier and go through reviews of their products and services to understand what you can expect from them. It is always recommended to seek the advice of an expert contractor to identify the right kind of mix that you would require for your project. Doing some research at your end is also a good idea because you would require different varieties of ready mix for different parts of your home. Bear in mind any special considerations and convey them to the supplier to get a mix that matches your needs.