Shotcrete’s quality shotcrete/concrete contractors know that a quality job begins in the initial stages. If quality is strived for at each step, then the overall project will be high quality as well. When it comes to concrete, there are certain tricks to ensuring that the consistency of the concrete is mixed perfectly; a concrete mix…
What is the purpose of a retaining wall? Sure, a retaining wall is a terrific architectural element in many landscapes, but it does have an important purpose. It’s a lateral support built of concrete that prevents the movement of soil. But not all retaining walls are built the same. Here are a few of the…
We know how durable and lasting concrete is as a building material. Although as durable as concrete is, a quality sealer will bolster its strength; a quality sealer makes concrete even more resistant to: weather, long exposures to water, abrasions, and staining. And a quality sealer will improve the look of the concrete. Concrete is…
Shotcrete and concrete jobs require that everyone involved on the job site understands the inherent risks (Every construction-type job requires considerable safety precautions). It’s not necessarily the norm for injury, but things might not go exactly as planned, and having precautions in place, and workers to understand the possible risks involved, will greatly reduce the…
Concrete can be tricky to mix, especially for someone new to the process. But the initial stages are vitally important to the end result; the best concrete jobs begin with a well-balanced mix of concrete. Concrete that is mixed well will be easier to work with and remain durably intact throughout its lifespan. And there…
Did you know that fall is a prime month for concrete? It’s true. It’s mostly because the fall is a season of predictable forecasts and moderate but neutral temperatures. It’s important, however, to remember that concrete and shotcrete work can be performed in any season, if safeguards are in place; but, mild and moderate temperatures…
Concrete is an incredibly durable and hardy building material; it’s long lifespan makes it a terrific choice as a building material for numerous projects. But like all things, concrete/shotcrete does eventually break down and need to be replaced. And the removal of a concrete slab, retaining wall, or ditch can be difficult work. For larger…
It’s possible for a concrete amateur to forget or to be unaware of the importance of a quality concrete sealer. A sealer helps the concrete resist the weather; a quality sealer prevents the concrete from taking on too much water during periods of long exposure; and, it even helps the concrete resist damage. And if…
Concrete shows its age as well as any imperfections. Concrete displays its weaknesses as cracks, fissures, and fractures. What are the differences between cracks, fissures, and fractures? When there is a crack in the concrete does it mean something different than a fissure? There are differences, and the differences are usually in the severity of…
Concrete is a reliable, durable building material. It’s the foundation of almost every home; it’s the foundation of our neighborhood’s sidewalks and paths, and for good reason: it’s a lasting, environmentally friendly product. But, even with all of its beneficial aspects, concrete can still develop cracks over time, as it gets weathered. Fortunately, though, concrete…