Q: How can I learn more about concrete?

A: Contact your knowledgeable concrete representative at Ready Mix. They will answer all your questions and direct you to other resources to learn about concrete. You can also find more at http://www.concreteanswers.org/.

Q: Why does concrete crack?

A: The number one reason is excess water in the mix. Additionally, rapid drying due to hot, dry and windy conditions cause cracks. Lack of or improper placement control joints causes cracks in concrete. Concrete may crack for other reasons. Please contact your Ready Mix representative or visit http://www.nrmca.org/aboutconcrete/cips/default.asp for more information.

Q: How does weather affect concrete?

A: During placement, hot or cold weather can have dramatic effects on concrete if proper placement techniques are not followed. High temperatures, low humidity or wind can cause shrink cracks, and can freeze if the temperature dips below 32° F within 24 hours of placement. All of these factors can affect the long term performance of your concrete.

Q: How does deicing salt affect concrete?

A: Deicing agents, whether placed directly on concrete or placed there by a vehicle operated on a salt treated roadway, have deleterious effects on concrete. Consult the warning label on your deicing product before use. Ready Mix recommends you wash the road salt off your concrete surfaces when permissible in the winter months, use sand for traction rather than deice agents and ensure your concrete is properly sealed with a concrete sealer. Sealer works best at the time of original placement but can be used on existing concrete surfaces after the fact.

Q: What is Flowable Fill?

A: Flowable fill is a controlled low strength density fill that self-compacts. Originally used in utility back fill applications especially in roadways to avoid that annoying 'dip' that occurs when conventional dirt or gravel is used. "Recent laws passed by the Environmental Protection Agency concerning below-grade fuel tanks have resulted in an increased use of flowable fill in other void-filling applications such as abandoned tanks, basements, tunnels and mines, sewers, and other underground structures." Cited from http://www.flowablefill.org/.