Your sidewalks and driveways endure the highest quantity and weight of traffic. It is thus essential to choose the strongest material that can withstand the traffic on your property. Though several materials have been introduced into the construction sector in recent times, none match the strength of concrete. Concrete pavements, unlike those made of other materials, also have a high aesthetic appeal since there are various decorative options used on them.
The installation of concrete sidewalk pavers in different colors, textures, and patterns from that used in your walkway in Kansas City is one of the decorative alternatives you have. Most property owners assume that the installation of concrete paving does not need so much since the material is strong and thus fail-proof. Without expert techniques, however, the durability of your concrete sidewalks is compromised.
The following are the techniques used to boost the longevity of your pavements.
Proper Mix Design
The durability of your concrete structure starts by picking the right mix design to match the elements in your environment. If for instance, the concrete is exposed to soils contaminated with sulfate compounds, your mix design will feature sulfate-resistant cement. Environments with temperature extremes, on the other hand, have freeze-thaw cycles that will cause cracks in your concrete. Here, your mix design will have an air-entraining admixture to avert damage from the air pockets trapped during these cycles.
Joint Waterproofing Systems
Concrete joints are inevitable in your construction. They are, however, a weak point through which water can seep into your structure and cause its deterioration by corroding the underlying reinforcing steel. To avert water damage to your concrete structure through the joints, waterproofing systems are used. The most common of these are those that use crystalline technology. These have long-term joint protection and will also self-seal random cracks.
Adequate Curing
Curing of concrete structures involves the maintenance of conditions that allow the hardening and strengthening of your structure. Proper humidity and temperature levels are the crucial elements. The ideal temperature for concrete curing is not less than ten degrees Celsius to allow optimal strength development. Maintenance of moisture in your concrete after its installation promotes cement hydration and averts shrinkage, drying, and cracks.
Proper Placement
The consistency and workability of your concrete mix should be adequate to consolidate the concrete during its placement into a solid mass. This way, your structure will be free of the rock pockets and voids that generally occur around your reinforcing steel bars. These voids will ordinarily contribute to vibrations in your structure that will cause cracks and contribute to water seepage into your structure. Alternatively, your contractor can recommend using self-consolidating concrete for your construction to prevent most of the common issues in concrete placement.
Concrete has been around for ages. Like all elements in today’s world, the installation of concrete structures has been affected by technological advancements. The above elements are only some of those an expert contractor will focus on to guarantee the durability and optimal performance of your driveway. You can therefore not afford to overlook the need of a professional contractor for the installation of your driveway irrespective of its expected foot and vehicular traffic amount.