The Work Of Concrete Contractors

3 Errors That Could Ruin Your Concrete Foundation

23 May 2017

Jeffery Hayes

Ready mix concrete takes a lot of the guesswork out of it when it comes to properly mixing it. However, there are still mistakes that you could make while using it to create a foundation. You do not have to be an expert at using concrete, but ideally, the foundation that you create should last at least as long as the building does. To help you create a solid foundation, here are some mistakes to avoid with the concrete.  

Failing to Prepare the Site 

A common misconception about pouring concrete is that you do not need to take any steps to prepare the ground because the mix can ooze into crevices and will dry into a solid form. In reality, if you do not prepare the ground, the soil beneath the concrete can shift. When it does, there is a possibility that the concrete will crack.  

Your foundation should begin with compacting the soil. Any loose topsoil needs to be removed first. You can use gravel to help prevent movement. The compactor should also be used over the gravel. Once you have done this,  you can move onto the next step in building your foundation. 

Using the Wrong Reinforcement 

Regardless of if you have a higher quality concrete mix, your project could fall apart if you have the wrong reinforcements for your foundation. Even though concrete dries to a solid base, you need to have a good reinforcement to contain it while it is going through the drying process. If not, the concrete will start to seep into other areas and you could be forced to restart the project.  

There are several types of reinforcement you can use. One of the most popular is rebar. Try to avoid using any type of mesh because it is not strong enough to offer the support that is needed.  

Improperly Finishing the Foundation 

Once the concrete is poured, it might appear to be finished. However, if you do not take the time to screed the concrete, it can be uneven and result in too much concrete in some places. You also need to edge the foundation to prevent sharp edges.  

The concrete can appear to be dry in a matter of hours. However, it is likely that it is not. Leave the concrete to dry for a couple of days before attempting to remove the reinforcements to start to build on the foundation.  

For more information on ready mix concrete, check out a company like New Interstate Concrete. 

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