Concrete

There are many important things to be concerned with whenever concrete is poured. These are my top 9 in importance.
1. Know the weather. Concrete behaves differently for each extreme of weather. If it’s going to rain, find something else to do on that day. I have been caught more times than [...]

Continue Reading 9 Concrete Pouring Tips

I was told many years ago, a footing that is uniform and 6 inches deep is better than one that is approximately 12 inches but varies a couple of inches from place to place. This is true because of weight distribution and settlement. Keep in mind that the concrete in that hole may [...]

Continue Reading Concrete Footings for Residential Homes

We have our forms set and we’re ready to prepare for the pour.
Let’s look at different views on the gravel or sand underlayment. The old time way of placing gravel was done after plumbing, which is the more proper way. Many contractors will put the gravel in after they pin the corners, and [...]

Continue Reading Monolithic Concrete Slabs – Part Three

Last time we built our forms and dug our ditches. Now we are ready to set the forms to the string lines.
There are two important things to do before you set any forms. First, you should double check all your dimensions and the squareness of your layout, along with setting up your transit [...]

Continue Reading Monolithic Concrete Slabs – Part Two

If you are building on a level area, the monolithic slab is a good alternative to the traditional footing and block. The monolithic slab originated in areas where the soil conditions were not good. The concept is for the footing and slab to function as one unit and if settling or movement occurs, [...]

Continue Reading Monolithic Concrete Slabs – Part One

Slabs are the concrete on which we place buildings. In the old days, concrete was not as readily available as it is now, and most floors were wood. When making a decision for either wood or concrete, keep in mind a few things.
If the grade is extreme, the slab is not cost feasible. [...]

Continue Reading Conventional Concrete Slabs