ConcreteConcrete is a construction material that consists of cements, other materials (such as gravel, limestone or granite), plus a fine aggregate (such as sand and water). Concrete solidifies and hardens after mixing and placement. The water reacts with the cement, which bonds the other components together; eventually creating a stone-like material. Because the density of concrete holds up against water erosion better than asphalt, it is primarily used to form curbs and gutters but can also be used as a traffic surface. Installing concrete is a three step process. First, the area must be prepared and forms are set to hold the liquid concrete in place. Next, the concrete is poured into these forms and smoothed out by hand. Finally, when the materials have dried, the forms are removed and any landscaping or asphalt may be installed. Concrete has many variables that can add strength and corresponding cost including: the size of the rock used, the amount of "cements" used in the mix (the higher the "PSI" the stronger the mix), and the size of rebar or wire mesh that may be used. The scope of work for concrete installation will change depending on how much weight and traffic the surface will be subject to. |