|
|
|
DO-IT-YOURSELF
FAQ
Before
you get a price on concrete, here is a guide to help you determine what
kind of mix is best for your project.
A. WHAT
KIND OF MIX DO I NEED?
There are 2 basic mixes: 1" rock or gravel which is usually dumped
out of the back of the truck and 3/8" rock, commonly called pea gravel,
which is usually pumped.
B. WHAT STRENGTH DO I NEED FOR MY PROJECT?
You will have to determine the strength of the concrete that you need.
The minimum strength we deliver is 2000 psi, which is typical for non-load
bearing items as patios, walkways, footings and wall grout. A typical
driveway could be 2500 psi for passenger cars or 3000 psi for SUV's, trucks
or motor homes. Concrete used in any part of a house should conform to
the UBC. Local laws and ordinances should be obeyed. Find out if your
city has any conditions (i.e. sulfates in soil) that may affect the life
of your concrete.
C. HOW MANY YARDS DO I NEED?
Take your measurements and then click "Tools" for our volume
calculator. Some concrete will remain in the truck and/or pump so don't
forget to add a little extra to make sure you have enough!
D. HOW DO I DECIDE IF I NEED A PUMP OR NOT?
You have 3 choices for getting the concrete from the ready-mix truck to
your project:
1. Place it using the truck's chutes, which extend about 12' from the
back of the truck (you will need about 14' clearance and about 12' width
for the truck);
2. Pump it using a pea gravel pump (we can arrange at separate cost)
3. Wheelbarrow
If there is not room for a ready-mix truck to get within 12' of your project,
you will need to pump it or wheelbarrow it. If you decide to wheelbarrow,
keep in mind that one yard of concrete weighs about 4,000 pounds and that
you will probably incur some standing time. If our truck crosses your
property line, you will have to sign a waiver which means that we are
not liable if the weight of the truck cracks your driveway or sidewalk.
E. WHAT CAN I DO TO PREVENT CRACKING?
Concrete shrinks during the hydration process and has a tendency to crack,
especially pea gravel mixes due to their high water content. This is called
shrinkage cracking. The least expensive product for reducing plastic shrinkage
cracking is stealth fibers. Millions of tiny fibers are added at the time
of batching. These fibers reduce plastic shrinkage cracking and improve
durability, among other things. Go to www.fibermesh.com for more information.
F. DO YOU FORM AND FINISH THE CONCRETE?
No, we are a ready-mix supplier. You or your concrete contractor get the
job ready. Our truck delivers the concrete and your workers do the rest.
|
