4 Common Mistakes People Make When Pouring a Concrete Slab

There are several reasons why it is important to hire a professional paving contractor for any type of concrete slab work. In fact, the most common mistakes made by those who choose the “do-it-yourself” approach are the very reasons why qualified concrete service is so critical to the outcome of a paving project. So, if you are a property owner who is considering a DIY concrete slab pouring project, be sure you are fully informed before getting started.

Continue reading to learn the top four mistakes made when pouring concrete slab. These common errors might just change your mind about do-it-yourself concrete work and bring you to the conclusion that licensed and bonded concrete installation is the best route to take.

Concrete Contractors Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833
Commercial Concrete Contractors Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

DIY Concrete Slab Mistakes

Even the most experienced handyman or home improvement buff is better-off hiring a professional Indianapolis paving company for any type of slab work. Without the proper resources, a person can have a lot of trouble pouring concrete on their own, and a low chance at achieving quality results. This includes the proper tools and materials, specialized equipment, and a sufficient team of helpers. In addition to the proper tools and resources, adequate training and hands-on experience is essential to pouring concrete slabs skillfully.

Here are four common mistakes made when pouring concrete slab:

Site Preparation Pouring concrete is a complex job that requires a significant amount of preparation. Those without experience often overlook the importance of proper site preparation. For concrete can be poured, the site must be perfectly level and thoroughly compacted. In most cases, this requires preliminary site excavation work. Depending on the quality of your work site’s surface, various adjustments may be needed to achieve a good outcome.

Concrete Mixing ▶ Another common mistake made by novice concrete installers is improperly mixing the concrete or using the wrong type altogether. Even the mix is only slightly off balance, it is worthless and shouldn’t be used. Also, not all concrete projects call for the same type of concrete mix, so it is important to differentiate products from one another. Using the wrong concrete would be disastrous to your project, not to mention a huge waste of your money and effort.

The Weather Very few people consider the weather before starting a concrete installation job, which is highly influential to the overall project. If weather is hot, cold, or wet, certain precautions and adjustments must be made in order to achieve the proper results. So failing to check the weather report before scheduling a concrete slab work day can be a huge setback.

Finish Work It is very common to forget the finish work required for pouring concrete slab. Before it’s finished, it needs to be screeded, edged, and floated. Failing to do so will result in a bubbly, uneven surface. If this is not completed, then the entire project is essentially a waste of time, money, and effort. This goes for any project that is only done halfway.

Do you have questions about your commercial concrete paving plans? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 for professional commercial and industrial concrete paving in Indianapolis, Indiana. We also serve municipal clients.

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FAQS About Commercial Concrete Overlays

If you have old, existing concrete foundations on your commercial lot, it is likely that they are in need of a little restoration or repair. One of the most cost-effective and easy options for old, existing concrete improvement are overlays. Concrete overlays are installed directly on top of existing foundations, which means there is little to no demolition or excavation necessary. They are great options for parking lots, sidewalks, plazas, courtyards, patios, driveways, and many other areas of paved surfaces.

Continue reading to review the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about commercial concrete overlay application, performance, appearance, and maintenance.

Commercial Concrete Overlay Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833
Commercial Concrete Overlay Indianapolis Indiana 317-549-1833

Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Overlays

Where Can Concrete Overlays Be Applied?

Any existing concrete surface that is in sound condition is a good candidate for overlay installation. A few cracks here and there are not usually an issue, but if the foundation is heaving, crumbled, or full of crevices, it is not a good candidate. A licensed and insured Indianapolis commercial concrete contractor can provide an assessment to determine if your property is a good candidate for concrete overlays. Everything from commercial parking lots and sidewalks to athletic courts, pool decks, paved trails, and more can be overlain with a freshly-paved layer of concrete. Overlays are also a great option for stained or discolored surfaces.

Are Concrete Overlays Durable?

Commercial concrete can last a long time with good care. Plus, with proper installation and the use of concrete sealers, concrete overlays can withstand the elements and natural wear and tear for several years. They can also be polished to a smooth, even finish. This adds more protection, especially on high-traffic pavements. Concrete polishing is a great option for surfaces that are blemished, discolored, or stained.

What Does a Concrete Overlay Look Like?

For the most part, a concrete overlay will look much like a smooth, grayish-white surface. But the great thing about concrete is that it is a highly versatility paving material. It can be polished, stained, colored, stamped, decorated, molded, shaped, dyed, and much more. These paving options can give standard gray concrete a decorative appearance, and even mimic higher end materials like brick, tile, cobblestone, and marble. This makes it an extremely cost-effective alternative to these materials and more. Concrete is also easier to clean and care for, making it less labor-intensive for the property owner.

How Do I Maintain Commercial Concrete?

Although concrete is one of the most common paving materials used across the world, admired and sought-after for its various properties, it is also porous, which means it is susceptible to certain damages caused by natural elements, chemicals, and more. For this reason, concrete requires proper installation, routine maintenance, and sometimes, repaving, overtime. What kind of maintenance? Routine sweeping, power washing, debris removal, crack filling, and weather management are all important elements of a responsible and effective concrete maintenance plan. These routine tasks will allow paved concrete to maintain a fresh and smooth appearance.

Are you looking for a trusted Indiana commercial paving company to restore your concrete pavements? Contact ACI Asphalt and Concrete at 317-549-1833 to speak with a seasoned commercial paving contractor in Indianapolis, Indiana today. We specialize in both asphalt and concrete work for commercial and industrial clients.

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