Concrete Contractors Near Me

A professional concrete contractor will be able to help with all kinds of projects, from repairing or replacing a concrete slab to adding decorative elements like tinted or stamped concrete. Before hiring one, ask some basic questions and review customer feedback online.

Concrete is pretty solid when it dries, but the ground beneath it isn’t always as stable. That’s why many installations have expansion joints or intentional gaps that allow concrete to expand without breaking.

Cracks

Concrete is an incredibly strong material when it dries, but it isn’t indestructible. Uneven drying, shrinkage and temperature changes can all cause cracks in slabs. Small hairline cracks that don’t extend far from their origin aren’t usually a big concern, but structural cracks wider than a credit card require a pro to assess and correct.

When evaluating contractors, ask about their years of experience in the concrete construction industry and review images of previous projects. Look for a contractor that has the proper licensing and insurance and glowing client testimonials. Be wary of contractors who offer to repair cracks in concrete with filler or a skim coat as these can mask the original problem and trap water, debris and radon gas beneath the surface. A reputable contractor will recommend repouring or rebuilding the concrete to address the cracks and prevent future damage. They’ll also make sure to install a vapor barrier to keep moisture and radon out of the home.

Buckling or heaving

Concrete can buckle or heave when the foundation isn’t built properly. This can happen when there isn’t enough reinforcement and rebar added to the mix, a lack of drainage, or excessive water around the slab. This can be caused by rain or groundwater as well as sprinkler systems that don’t drain away from the concrete properly.

Another cause of buckling is temperature fluctuations that lead to concrete expansion and contraction. This can be prevented by installing a thermal barrier between the slab and the surrounding ground or by insulating the concrete to prevent heat loss.

Hiring a professional concrete contractor is the best way to ensure your project is built correctly and that your home is protected for years to come. Look for contractors with years of experience, relevant industry certifications and glowing client testimonials. They will be able to advise you on the best type of concrete for your project and the reinforcements that are needed.

Curling

Curling is the distortion of a slab into a curved shape caused by differences in moisture and/or temperature between the top and bottom surfaces. This can cause the slab to lift off from the base, leading to cracking and/or damage to the flooring system.

The solution is to use a low water-to-cement ratio and wet cure the slab, as shown in Photograph 5. It also helps to minimize curling with a wide joint spacing. A 1976 study by the Portland Cement Association cited that short-term curling in concrete slabs was often a result of using vapor barriers between plastic and the concrete.

Vapor barrier use is controversial, with some saying they do more harm than good, especially in warm climates like California. Others point out that they prevent adhesive failures and retard mildew and mold growth. They also prevent radon penetration and help maintain floor flatness. Ultimately, it is up to the slab designer and concrete contractor to decide where a vapor barrier should be used.

Shifting ground

A new concrete slab adds value to your property and can make it more desirable. If you choose a professional with experience and expertise, you can get the job done right at an affordable cost. The expert will ensure that the work is conducted properly, including planning, setting forms and pouring concrete. This will help ensure that the concrete slab is durable and long-lasting.

If the soil under a slab swells, it can cause the concrete foundation to shift. This can also happen if the slab does not have piers under it. The best way to fix this issue is to use a repair method that lifts and stabilizes the concrete foundation.

If you are building a patio, deck or pool on an existing slab, hiring an experienced contractor is the best way to avoid problems in the future. This will save you money and protect your investment. A professional will ensure that the work is conducted correctly and will help you to understand the different options for your project.

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