Mistakes to Avoid When Pouring Concrete
Ready-mixed concrete can be used to build the most durable and long-lasting projects when it is
properly manufactured and installed. But if you don’t know how to pour concrete, you may make one of
these common mistakes that can often lead to problems down the road. Here are a few common
mistakes to avoid when pouring concrete.
MISTAKE #1: IMPROPERLY PREPARING THE SITE
A properly prepared sub base is critical to your concrete installation.
One common mistake when preparing the site for concrete includes
failing to compact the base, which creates an uneven surface that will
cause weak points in the concrete. Other mistakes include placing
gravel too thin or using gravel that is too small.
To properly prepare your site, follow these important steps:
Place pit run eight inches to one foot deep
Place gravel sized three-quarter to one inch on top of pit run
Place gravel at least three to four inches deep
It is critical to prepare the base with pit run and gravel to prevent settling. Settling can create weak
points can cause the concrete to crack. It is also important to use the correct size of gravel because
using gravel that is too small can create settling or bunching after the concrete is poured.
MISTAKE
#2: CHOOSING THE WRONG MIX DESIGN
Many people choose a mix design that is not suited for their intended concrete application. If your mix
is not air entrained or too wet, you may encounter problems with your concrete. When you call to order
your concrete, the dispatcher should ask your intended concrete application and suggest how to
choose the right concrete mix for your specific project. If you are unsure what mix design is best, make
sure to tell your dispatcher the intended application and ask for their recommendations
Concrete used for exterior surfaces that is exposed to freeze and thaw cycles should contain at least
six percent air entrainment. Concrete that is exposed to freeze and thaw cycles but isn’t air entrained
can pop or peel. Interior concrete should be 3000 PSI with low air and the mix should be as dense as
possible.
MISTAKE #3: POOR FINISHING WORK
Your work isn’t done just because you’ve prepared your base and
chosen the right mix design. Proper finishing work includes leveling
the concrete with a screed, troweling and placing designated control
joint cuts. Avoid overworking the concrete and excessive hard
troweling as both of these errors can make your mix too dry and
unworkable. Concrete will crack so design and place control joints to
encourage cracking at a desired location.
Call us today to talk with our team who will help you make sure
everything is prepared correctly and guide you in choosing a mix design suited for your project.
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