Category: Concrete Contractors

Foundation Repair
Concrete Contractors

Choosing the Right Foundation Repair Method

Mario Sons

Foundation problems can cause your home to stop functioning properly. Uneven floors, sticking doors and windows, and other symptoms can lead to structural damage if left untreated.Foundation Repair

Once a contractor has determined the type and extent of your foundation problem, they’ll dig holes directly under your house to install supports. These may be steel piers (known as bell-bottom piers) or concrete pilings. Contact Foundation Repair Greensboro NC for professional help.

Foundation problems can affect every aspect of your home. They can cause cracks in walls and ceilings, a sagging floor, doors that don’t open or close, and other issues that require costly repairs. Foundation damage also increases the likelihood of leaks and can lead to water infiltration that causes mold, mildew, rot, and other serious problems.

It’s important to understand the cost of foundation repair and factor it into your budget before pursuing repairs. A good foundation repair contractor will provide detailed estimates to help you set a realistic budget and ensure you’re prepared for any unexpected costs.

Labor costs are the largest expense in a foundation repair project, and they vary depending on your location and the severity of the problem. Foundation repair professionals typically charge by the hour and can range from $200 to $400 per hour.

Material expenses can also increase the overall cost of your foundation repair. Some materials, like epoxies and sealants, are relatively inexpensive, while other options, such as waterproofing, hydraulic piers, and steel reinforcements, are more expensive. Similarly, foundation repair projects that involve excavation or a complete replacement of the foundation may require permitting and inspection fees, which can add to the total cost of your project.

The geography of your home and its accessibility can also impact the cost of foundation repair. Homes in areas with expansive clay soils that swell when wet and shrink when dry can experience more foundation issues, and the cost of repairs is often higher than for homes on more stable rocky or sandy soils. Additionally, if the foundation is difficult to access due to landscaping or hardscaping, labor and equipment costs will be higher.

Leaks and other moisture-related problems can dramatically increase the cost of a foundation repair project. Depending on the severity of the issue, it may be necessary to install drainage systems or replace gutters and downspouts. Additionally, a concrete leveling process known as house jacking or mudjacking may be needed to address shifting or sinking of the foundation. This method involves pumping a grout mixture underneath the foundation to float it back into place, and can cost up to $1,600.

Repair Methods

When foundation cracks and shifting soil cause damage to your home, it’s important to seek professional help immediately. If left untreated, these problems will only worsen over time and could lead to more invasive and expensive repairs down the line. Choosing the right repair method will ensure stability, minimize disruption, and safeguard your home for the future.

The best way to choose a foundation repair contractor is to find one with experience and a solid track record. Look for a company that is licensed, insured, and has a history of positive customer reviews. Contractors familiar with local soil and climate conditions will also be able to provide more effective solutions. Gerrior Masonry & Landscaping has over 30 years of experience and is a trusted source for foundation repair in the greater Houston area.

Many homeowners worry that if their foundation is damaged, they’ll have to replace the entire structure. However, in most cases, modern repair methods can restore the original functionality of your home without costly replacement.

A common method is to use concrete slab foundation repair. This approach addresses issues like shifts in the slab and can be less invasive than other options. The only drawback to this solution is that it can take longer to complete due to the excavation required.

Another popular option is to use steel piers to support the foundation of your home. These piers are driven into the ground beneath your foundation and are connected to hydraulic jacks that can lift the house back into place. This method is typically less invasive than other options but may not be as stable as a concrete slab foundation.

Depending on the severity of your foundation damage, it may be necessary to reinforce the entire structure. Carbon fiber bracing and steel I-beams can be effective in strengthening the foundation while repairing cracks. This technique is less invasive but may not address deeper, underlying soil issues.

For severe damage, the most effective solution is often helical piers. These piers are installed by drilling holes into the ground underneath your foundation and driving them into the load-bearing stratum. This technique can be used to repair sinking foundations and is an excellent solution for unstable soil.

Inspections

Identifying problems early in the foundation of a building is essential to prevent long-term damage. This is often accomplished through regular inspections by a professional. These inspections allow engineers to understand the causes of movement in the structure and provide solutions to stabilize it. These repairs are often less costly than allowing the foundation to continue to shift and create additional problems in the structure.

The inspection will include a visual examination of the exterior foundation walls, looking for cracks, gaps and other signs of movement. The engineer will also examine the interior of the home, checking for cracked drywall or plaster, leaning or listing of doors and windows, sticking doors and windows and other observable problems. The engineer will also look for leaks in the plumbing, which can cause significant upheaval in a foundation.

Other signs of a shifting foundation may include a musty odor in basements and crawl spaces, water pooling around the slab or beneath flooring, dampness and mold in these areas and efflorescence, which is a white mineral deposit on block or brick walls. It is also important to check the grading of the site, ensuring that the soil slopes away from the foundation. This helps to avoid water accumulation which can cause soil movement.

Foundation movement is most commonly caused by soil expansion or settlement. When this occurs, the earth pushes against parts of the foundation and this causes cracking and other damage to the building. Other causes of movement in a foundation include leaks in the plumbing system which can cause significant upheaval and damage to the foundation, and soil compaction which can create pressure on the foundation.

In addition to these common signs of foundation problems, the engineer will use a laser level to measure the floor elevation in various locations throughout the home and compare it to previous measurements. This will help determine the cause of movement in the foundation and whether it is due to settling, lateral movement or a combination of these factors. The engineer will also examine the gutter system, grading, downspout extensions and any other site terrain features that could be contributing to movement in the foundation. Once the evaluation is complete, the engineer will verbally explain his findings to the homeowner and make transparent recommendations for repair or maintenance.

Warranty

When homeowners get foundation repairs done, they want to be sure that the work they had done is going to last. They also want to know that their investment is protected for as long as they own their home. One way to do this is to choose a company that offers a lifetime warranty on their repair and installation work. This is a great way to add value to your home and increase its resale potential.

Having a strong and stable foundation can protect your home from weather damage and other issues that can cause expensive problems. In addition to preventing costly issues, a solid foundation can keep pests out and make your home more energy efficient.

The main causes of foundation damage are soil shifts, sinking or settlement, and improper site preparation. These issues are not only difficult to fix but can also be incredibly expensive. For this reason, it is important to contact a professional for foundation repair as soon as you notice any problems. Getting your foundation repaired by professionals will ensure that the work is done correctly and that the results will last for years to come.

When choosing a foundation repair company, it is important to consider their experience and track record. The company should be able to provide you with references from previous clients and testimonials that show their quality of work. You should also look for a company that uses reputable materials and is backed by a lifetime warranty.

Another factor to consider is whether the warranty offered is transferable. Most companies offer a lifetime transferable warranty on their work. This means that if you ever decide to sell your home, the lifetime warranty will be transferred to the new owner. This can add significant value to your home and will give you peace of mind that the work you had done on your foundation is protected for as long as you own your home.

If you are interested in having a foundation repair company assess the condition of your home, then contact Academy House Leveling. They offer a lifetime warranty on their repair and installations that is transferable to future owners as long as no major structural changes are made. For more information, contact them today.

Concrete Contractors

What Is Concrete?

Lori Oliver

Concrete Dallas is one of the most popular and versatile construction materials in use today. It is comprised of cement, coarse aggregate (sand or crushed rock fines) and water.

When making concrete, careful attention to proportions is important. For example, adding too much water will weaken the mix and cause it to become unworkable.

What is Concrete? Types, Composition & Properties | UltraTech

Concrete is the most used building material on earth. It is in our roads and sidewalks, the bridges that connect us to the places we need to go, and in houses, hospitals, schools and many other structures. In fact, concrete has become such a part of our everyday lives that it is easy to forget that it was once an experimental material that had to be carefully developed before it could take the form we now know as concrete.

The history of concrete starts in the 1700s when a bricklayer named John Smeaton combined a limestone-clay material with trass, a type of volcanic ash, to build a lighthouse that stood for over 100 years. Smeaton’s creation triggered other inventors to create more concrete-like materials and eventually modern concrete was invented.

To make concrete, a “binder” is needed that can hold aggregates together. Traditionally this has been a lime-based cement, but today a variety of cements and other binding agents are utilized. The most common types of concrete are made with cement that has been stabilized with a polymer such as asphalt or epoxy resin.

It was in the 1800s that concrete became truly viable as a construction material. A bricklayer from Leeds named Joseph Aspdin discovered that heating chalk and clay in a kiln produced an even better cement than previous crushed limestone cements. The new concrete was remarkably strong and durable and is still the basis for today’s concrete production.

The invention of the rotary kiln in 1885 allowed for more consistent temperature control, which improved the quality and strength of the finished product. This advancement, along with the advent of steel reinforcement in concrete, allowed for the building of larger and taller structures using concrete.

Mixing

Concrete is made by mixing aggregates, cement and water. The ratio of the components determines the consistency and strength of the final product. Incorrect mix ratios can weaken the material or make it difficult to work with and place. Mixing is the most critical step in producing high quality concrete.

The standard concrete mix ratio of one part cement, two parts sand and three parts coarse aggregate is suitable for most construction projects. However, some jobs require higher strength mixes and these are made by adjusting the ingredients. Chemical admixtures can also be used to modify the properties of the concrete.

Mixing times vary according to the type of mixer, the maximum aggregate size and the desired strength. For example, a high strength mix will need longer mixing times than a standard mix. The duration of mixing is also important because it determines the extent to which the materials are blended and homogeneous.

Dry mixing is the process of combining the different components before water is added. It can be done manually with a shovel or with a mechanical mixer. The latter is the preferred method because it is faster and more efficient and can be used to mix a wide variety of construction materials.

Another indicator of the efficiency of a mixer is the mixing energy, but this has been shown to be misleading if only macroscopic properties are considered. More accurate tests are needed to determine the homogeneity of a concrete mixture. One approach is to analyze the distribution of the various solid constituents (coarse and fine aggregates, mineral admixtures and cement paste) in samples taken from a mixer at different times during discharge. This compositional test has been recommended for standardization by RILEM.

Strength

Concrete strength is a key factor for determining whether or not it will be suitable for a specific construction project. Concrete strengths are measured in pounds per square inch (psi) and a higher PSI rating indicates that a particular concrete mix has greater strength properties. This is an important consideration when choosing the right concrete for a job, as it can have a significant impact on the final cost of a project.

The strength of concrete is determined by the amount of pressure that it can withstand under compression. Engineers typically use compressive testing to determine a concrete’s strength, measuring the force that will be required to crush a cylindrical sample of the material. This figure is then divided by the concrete’s surface area to produce a concrete strength value.

Although the compressive strength of concrete is relatively straightforward to measure, it’s harder to monitor the tensile and flexural strength of concrete in situ. In this case, the only way to do so is to drill holes into a concrete slab and extract a sample for testing in a laboratory. However, this is a destructive method of testing and carries with it the risk of damaging the integrity of the in-situ concrete structure.

Onsite monitoring of concrete strength is therefore a critical element for any construction project. Fortunately, new technology has made it possible to monitor the strength of in-situ concrete using wireless sensors that track hydration temperature history. This allows engineers to correlate test results from the Maturity test with the strength of field-cured cylinders tested in a lab.

While traditional concrete mixtures can achieve impressive compressive strengths, innovations such as Ultra-High Performance Concrete (UHPC) have pushed the boundaries of strength even further. This specialized concrete mixes cement, silica fume, fibers and superplasticizers in precise proportions to create a compact microstructure that contributes to its exceptional strength. Not only does UHPC have stronger tensile and flexural strengths than traditional concrete, but it also has a lighter weight, which can reduce footing and support requirements for structures.

Durability

Concrete is used in a wide range of structures exposed to a variety of environmental conditions and levels of mechanical loads. Durability refers to the ability of concrete to resist damage induced by these factors during its service life.

The durability of concrete is primarily related to its chemistry and porosity, rather than its compressive strength. The penetration of aggressive substances such as chloride ions, carbonation and sulfate ions, or leaching of mineral materials through the concrete microstructure is controlled by the size and connectivity of the pores and cracks.

A number of environmental factors affect the durability of concrete, including temperature fluctuations and freeze-thaw cycles, exposure to deicing salts and sulfates, and acid attacks. Designing concrete mixes that can withstand these factors and implementing proper construction techniques will help ensure the long-term performance of the structure.

In addition, the curing process is essential to achieving good durability in concrete. This includes ensuring that the concrete is kept at a stable temperature and moisture level, which will allow the cementitious materials to fully hydrate. Proper curing will also help reduce the risk of freezing and thawing, which can cause cracking and spalling.

The best way to ensure the durability of concrete is to use a high-quality, properly mixed mix. This means using the right amount of water and adding chemical admixtures, such as plasticizers and superplasticizers. Using these admixtures allows the concrete to flow and self-consolidate, which will make it less likely to crack or lose strength during placement and curing. It is also important to follow proper construction practices and use appropriate formwork and reinforcement. In addition, proper maintenance and repair can also enhance the durability of a concrete structure.

Applications

Concrete’s inherent durability and resistance to extreme weather conditions make it a critical building material for structures from bridges to dams. It also makes for a sound foundational alternative to wood in residential construction. Its fire-resistance and impenetrability deters pests like termites, allowing homeowners to save on energy costs and maintain their homes’ structural integrity.

When used in buildings, the cement-aggregate paste in which concrete is poured forms a durable, dense mass that resists seismic and wind forces, water penetration, and freezing temperatures. In addition to traditional concrete, many alternative materials have been used in the construction of buildings, including recycled glass, fly ash (a byproduct from coal combustion) and ground granulated blast-furnaces slag (GGBFS).

A key feature of concrete is its high thermal mass, which slows down the transmission of heat. Concrete’s natural insulating properties also reduce heating and cooling costs, making it an ideal choice for commercial building applications.

The low weight of concrete also contributes to its durability and ease of transport. For this reason, it is frequently used as a filler in road and runway construction. In some cases, concrete is precast and delivered to a construction site ready for installation. This reduces the time and labor needed for on-site mixing.

In many concrete applications, chemical admixtures are added to improve workability and performance. Plasticizers, such as lignosulfonate, increase the plasticity of concrete without changing the water-cement ratio. Air-entraining admixtures are used in high-strength concrete to promote better flow and minimize segregation and bleeding. Concrete pumpability is also improved by the use of superplasticizers, such as xylene.

During the curing process, calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) forms in concrete, adding to its strength and durability. In structures that will experience a lot of tensile stresses, such as beams and slabs, concrete can be made prestressed to counteract its tendencies to sag. In this form of concrete, steel tendons or bars are placed in the concrete before pouring to achieve the necessary stress distribution.

Polished Concrete
Concrete Contractors

Is Polished Concrete Right for Your Space?

Verdie Curley

Concrete polishing has become a hot trend in commercial and industrial spaces. It is a low-maintenance option that provides durability, visual appeal and sustainability.Polished Concrete

Its reflective surface enhances lighting and attracts customers, while its durability withstands heavy foot traffic. The sanitary nature of polished concrete makes it ideal for warehouses, retail stores, food service areas and car showrooms. Contact Polished Concrete Orange County for professional help.

Concrete polishing transforms dull and unattractive concrete floors into high-gloss, mirror-like surfaces that enhance the aesthetics of your business or residential space. This process also gives the concrete a protective sealer that improves its durability and stain resistance. The resulting surface can be customized to your desired sheen level, from a soft matte to a reflective shine. It can also be enhanced with aggregates, dyes, and stamped patterns that mimic marble or tile. This versatility in aesthetics makes polished concrete an excellent choice for open-concept spaces, where it can adapt to a wide range of design styles.

There are several different types of finishes for polished concrete, ranging from a creamy finish to an exposed aggregate look. The concrete densifier used to cure the concrete can impact the final look. For example, a sodium silicate densifier produces a higher sheen than calcium silicate densifiers, which produce a lower sheen. Depending on the type of sheen desired, you may need to perform additional steps to achieve the finish you want.

For example, a concrete densifier can be used to create a salt and pepper finish that exposes fine sands or coarser aggregates. You can also choose to add a color to the densifier to create a colored concrete finish. A broom finish is another option, in which the floor is lightly swept and then damp mopped with a neutral pH cleaner.

Aside from enhancing the aesthetics of your building, polished concrete is easy to maintain and lasts longer than alternative flooring options. It is ideal for commercial and industrial facilities that require a durable surface that can handle heavy foot traffic, forklifts, and vehicle traffic. Additionally, it is an excellent choice for retail locations, warehouses, and showrooms.

Moreover, the concrete’s reflectivity increases ambient lighting in the facility, which reduces energy costs and improves indoor air quality. This feature is especially helpful in large warehouses, where natural lighting is often limited. In addition, the concrete’s chemical resistance makes it a good choice for distribution centers, factories, and other industrial settings.

Lastly, polished concrete is an affordable alternative to other floor coverings. It requires less maintenance and is easier to clean than rugs or carpets, making it a cost-effective solution for many businesses. Moreover, it is environmentally friendly, as it uses the existing concrete slab and does not use harmful chemicals.

Durability

Polished concrete is a popular floor choice for both commercial and residential applications, offering a sleek and stylish alternative to traditional flooring materials. While it is an excellent option for high-traffic areas, it is important to consider the durability of polished concrete before making a purchase. The following questions will help you determine whether this solution is right for your space:

The concrete mix design, proper installation methods and adequate curing time are all factors that affect the durability of a polished concrete floor. When the proper procedures are followed, a concrete floor will be extremely durable and long-lasting. The best way to ensure that your new polished concrete floors will last is to have them professionally installed by a trained professional.

Unlike a typical grind and seal finish, a polished concrete floor requires a lengthy process of grinding the concrete with increasingly finer diamond discs and applying chemical hardeners in between each step. This makes it more expensive than a standard grind and seal, but it also means that your finished product will be more durable.

To get the most out of your investment in a polished concrete floor, it is important to discuss your desired outcome with your contractor before beginning the work. This will ensure that the finished product meets your expectations, including any specifications for trowel marks, sheen level and aggregate exposure.

The use of a chemical hardener will improve the concrete’s surface, making it more resistant to stains and other damage. However, it is not impervious to scratches. It is still important to maintain a regular cleaning routine, such as sweeping or dust mopping daily, and placing doormats at entryways to catch dirt before it hits the floor.

Another factor to consider is that polished concrete is cold underfoot, especially in cooler climates. This can lead to a lack of comfort and may require additional considerations such as radiant heat systems or the use of rugs.

Stain resistance

Concrete, by nature, is a porous material. Without protection, unpolished concrete is prone to staining from chemicals, oils and food-based liquids. As a result, stained concrete and polished concrete are popular choices for areas that need to be resistant to spills and messes, such as commercial kitchens and retail spaces. With a proper polishing and sealer, the pores in the concrete are closed, making it impossible for liquids to penetrate and cause damage.

However, it is important to note that no surface is completely impervious to staining. Proper cleaning and maintenance are the key to preventing and reversing damage to any surface, including polished concrete. To enhance the stain resistance of your concrete, consider adding a silicate densifier to the mix before polishing. Silicate densifiers bond with the concrete to fill any voids with a silica mixture, dramatically reducing its porosity and strengthening it, thereby increasing its stain resistance.

Another option is to use a hybrid sealer. These sealers combine the properties of penetrating and film-forming sealers, creating a layered system of protection for your concrete. These sealers help to protect the surface from staining, while also enhancing its appearance. Additionally, you may want to consider using a color-enhancing or UV-resistant sealer on your concrete floor to prevent yellowing and discoloration over time.

Regardless of which product you choose, regular maintenance will greatly aid in preserving the life of your polished concrete flooring. Sweep the floors regularly to remove dust and debris from the surface. Damp mop the floors with a clean water solution as needed, typically with a citrus based pH neutral cleaner, or as directed by your ACC professional.

While polished concrete is an excellent choice for high traffic and use areas, it is not a good choice for areas that require a high level of foot traction. If you require additional slip resistance, a non-slip additive can be added to the concrete prior to polishing. This is an inexpensive option that will significantly increase the safety of your floor while still maintaining its visual appeal. Lastly, resealing your polished concrete on an annual basis will keep it looking its best.

Maintenance

Concrete floors need a lot of maintenance in order to look their best. This is especially true of Polished Concrete, which requires a special technique to create a polished surface and prevent the floor from becoming damaged. By avoiding certain common mistakes and following the best practices, your polished concrete can last for years to come and maintain its beautiful sheen.

Grit buildup is the most common cause of damage to polished concrete. It’s important to regularly sweep the concrete with a bristle broom and vacuum frequently in order to keep the grit to a minimum. It’s also helpful to install entryway mats in high traffic areas and encourage people to wipe their shoes before entering the space. This will minimize the amount of outside debris that is tracked into the space, particularly in cold weather climates where de-icing salt is often used. It’s a good idea to use textile walk-off mats in high traffic areas to further minimize the impact of tracked in debris on your polished concrete.

It’s also recommended to use a neutral pH cleaner formulated specifically for use on polished concrete flooring. Acidic cleaners wear away the sealer, leaving the floor vulnerable to damage and staining. If a spill does occur, it’s essential to clean up the area immediately with water and the recommended cleaner.

A regular cleaning program of the concrete floor will keep it looking and functioning as if it was just installed. This should be done with an automatic scrubber outfitted with pads designed for polished concrete. If the floor is stained or contaminated, it should be cleaned with a mop and water, or a soft nylon-bristle brush or neoprene squeegee. Abrasion wear is reduced by using a non-slip pad on the mop.

A professional may be able to advise on the most appropriate method of maintaining your concrete floors and recommend the best products and frequency of use. Most importantly, a professional can determine whether your floor needs to be resealed. Resealing is required every few years to protect the floor and ensure it retains its shine.