Setting your plans in concrete
Planning a renovation or building project requires awareness, patience, and materials like concrete and rebar. You’ve met the interior designer to pick out paint colours and beento the furniture shop for a new couch. Getting the practical details right, though, is important.
(Tensile) strength
Concrete and rebar – one won’t exist without the other in any commercial project. Rebar is laid and the wet mixture is poured over it. Because the bars have grooves, the concrete has a strong ‘grip’ which prevents cracks.
Concrete is hardy and long-lasting, but only if the right type is used for the job. The slabs must withstand nature, traffic from people and machines, and anything else that will make it crack. Cracks in walls, ceilings, or support slabs spell disaster.
Have here or take away?
Cement mixes are readily available in hardware stores, and popular with DIYers. Professional concreters, though, will have ReadyMix cement trucks available. The barrel on the truck constantly turns, keeping the mixture at a good consistency and making sure the heavier stones don’t settle at the bottom.
Benefits of ReadyMix concrete include not having to make the mixture yourself. Amateur renovators might find this overwhelming and while it’s fun to watch the struggle on renovation shows, you might not laugh when it’s your turn. Another perk is knowing that you’ve bought the right amount of cement. If you fall short, it’ll cost money that you delegated elsewhere on your budget.
DIY or a little extra help?
Unless you’re a builder or tradie who deals with concrete every day, it’s probably best to let the professionals handle the job. Experienced DIYers can order the premixed cement and do the work themselves to save money. The project, though, will go a lot faster with some experienced helping hands.
Professional concreters will come over in the early stages of the project for measurements. This way, you’re getting the right amount of concrete the first time. You don’t need to worry about running off to the hardware store for more supplies mid-project.
