With the research and development of admixtures, cements, and aggregates that make up a mix design there has been so much advancement with the possibilities of what concrete can do. It starts with the mix design and the application the design is intended for. For a better understanding, outdoor concrete has a different design makeup to that of indoor concrete. Different variables come into play when developing the right mix design such as the application which it is intended for, where it needs to go, type of reinforcement it has to cover, type of finish required, along with the season and ambient conditions just to name a few. The mix design sets the stage for the perfect outcome of the project.

Of course there are different ways of producing the right mix design each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Some contractors choose the more labor intensive and time consuming method of mixing their own concrete with a concrete wheelbarrow or portable concrete mixer. Where that might be convenient for very small jobs it is more difficult to assure a proper mix design for great concrete. A more accurate design can be achieved by a drum mixer which is batched at a plant and transported to the job site or by a volumetric mixer which carries the ingredients for concrete separately and mixes fresh concrete on site. Considering Syn Rock started with concrete production, we are capable of providing a accurate mix design by means of our own truck.

To help assist in the support and longevity of concrete, reinforcement is installed. There is different types of reinforcement such as rebar, welded wire and fiber were usage depends on application. Proper size, amount and placement can affect the outcome of the project and when installed properly can provide much more serviceability to the life of the concrete from strength to cracking.

By far the widest range of thoughts, ideas and practices are applied to this process. This is the point of separation between the bad, good and great concrete contractor. Having knowledge in mix designs and production allows for adjustments to be made when it comes to proper placing and finishing techniques. The installation of proper isolation and contraction joints should allow concrete to expand and contrast without pressure and control joints should be placed to control unsightly cracks that will occur. Overall the timing and conditions of fresh concrete dictates this process and will show in the finished product.

Like anything else in life that you plan to preserve the life and value of, concrete is no different.  If you want to keep your concrete looking good, you need to clean it.  Cleaning your concrete can help remove dirt and debris and give the final form an attractive look.  We recommend a seasonal pressure wash to really do the trick. Sealing or staying up to date with the sealer can help extend the life and keep it looking great.  There are different types of concrete sealers available.  Topical sealers can be applied to the surface of the concrete every few years in order to prevent staining and surface damage.  Always be sure to seal the concrete according to the manufacturer’s directions.   Although your concrete sealer will help protect your concrete, it’s still a good idea to clean stains and spills from concrete as soon as they happen.  For example, if you notice that your car leaked oil on your concrete driveway, clean the oil from the driveway as soon as possible.  This will help prevent any discoloration or staining from occurring, which will help your concrete look better.  Concrete is a very strong and durable material, but residential concrete pours are not designed to hold extremely heavy materials.  For example, while your driveway is perfectly capable of handling the weight of your everyday vehicle, it’s not equipped to handle heavy machinery or oversized vehicles like delivery trucks or moving trucks.  Make sure these vehicles remain on the street and keep heavy machinery somewhere other than your driveway in order to maintain the life of your concrete.