Alright, let us talk about concrete. You are thinking about a new driveway, or maybe a patio for those summer evenings. You might also be thinking about some steps that actually hold up. That is great. However, before you jump in, I have seen many homeowners right here in Pawtucket make some common mistakes. These mistakes often cost them time as well as money as well as a lot of frustration. Our goal at Pawtucket Concrete & Masonry is to make sure that does not happen to you. We want to help with your concrete project in Pawtucket.
Mistake #1: Skipping the Site Prep Homework
This is probably the biggest mistake, and it is where many problems start with a concrete installation. People sometimes think concrete is just concrete. They think you pour it, and it is done. This is not the case, especially not in Pawtucket with our clay-heavy soils around the Blackstone River lowlands. That ground moves a lot. It expands when it freezes, and it holds moisture. Pawtucket Concrete & Masonry understands these local conditions.
- Not checking soil conditions: You would not build a house on sand. The same goes for your concrete. If your concrete contractor does not assess the soil, as well as the drainage, as well as the existing conditions, you are asking for trouble. Poorly compacted ground or unstable ground will lead to cracks in your concrete. It will also lead to settling as well as drainage issues later on.
- Ignoring drainage: We get plenty of rain here in Rhode Island, around 47 inches a year. If your concrete is not graded properly to move water away from your house, you are going to have pooling. You will also have erosion as well as potential foundation problems. Our team at Pawtucket Concrete & Masonry always considers drainage for concrete projects in Pawtucket.
- Leaving organic material: Any old roots, or stumps, or debris left under your new concrete slab will decompose. This creates voids as well as uneven support. You need a clean, properly compacted base for your Pawtucket concrete project.