Concrete is one of the most popular materials used in the construction industry. Concrete is inexpensive, relatively safe, and can be purchased in a huge variety of colors, sizes, and forms. Apart from being available in bricks, concrete can be made into different concrete forms including stamped concrete, poured concrete, block concrete, precast concrete panels, stamped concrete overlay concrete, poured concrete panels, poured concrete slabs, and screed concrete. However, despite its widespread use, there are only a limited number of jobs that require the handling of concrete at any given time. Below are some of the most popular jobs related to concrete in Memphis and across the US.
Traffic Centers – One of the most essential things that you need to know about concrete is its basic use as a material to erect driveways, walkways, parking lots, and security fencing. This is because concrete has the property to expand and contract according to the weather conditions. In other words, you can construct a six-foot-wide asphalt walkway and it will remain solid regardless of rain or snowfall. The most common form of concrete used for such purposes is broken or blown-in. Concrete can also be used as a base to install lighting, drainage, and lighting systems on an elevated deck or patio. It is also used as a material for patios, pools, and gardens.
Sidewalks – If you are looking to give your walkway a better look and enhance its safety features, then you need to opt for the stamped concrete sidewalk. This is a relatively inexpensive option to improving the visual appeal of your surroundings and extending the usability of your walkway. Stamped concrete does not have the grain structure that other forms of concrete have. Also, stamped concrete surfaces don’t have backings and are not susceptible to cracking. These are two of the major advantages of using stamped concrete for your walkways.
Driveways – A concrete slab driveway is a great choice if you are looking to improve the aesthetics and safety features of your driveway. You can choose from precast concrete or poured concrete. Precast concrete is pre-manufactured concrete that is shipped in large containers. Once they have been manufactured, they are placed on top of the soil and leveled with steel rollers. When you are selecting the concrete for your driveway, it is important to ensure that you select ones that are not vulnerable to cracking because once they are exposed to weather, they can become weak and easily shatter.
Slabs – In general, concrete surfaces have to be sealed before application. This will help maintain the structural integrity of the concrete and prevent it from seeping into your basement. Sealing concrete can be done with a concrete paver, a membrane, or a roller. All these methods of sealing concrete surfaces are effective. In fact, some homeowners even add some type of decorative sealer to their concrete slabs.
Maintenance – Perhaps the most important part of your maintenance schedule is the cleaning of your concrete surfaces. For this, there are several cleaning products available in the market. Just make sure that the chemical ingredients of the cleaners are safe for your family and pets. Once you have cleaned your concrete surfaces, you may apply another coat of sealant just to preserve the cement and protect it from future stains. Nowadays, there are also concrete polishing kits available in the market which can be used by homeowners to polish off those ugly concrete surfaces.
As you can see, maintaining your concrete surfaces is not a very difficult job. However, it is still a must employ a professional when it comes to concrete polishing or concrete sealing. Your family’s safety and your investment’s security are at stake. It would be wise to seek the services of a professional when it comes to concrete surfaces maintenance. Although you may be able to do it on your own, you cannot be too careless. The consequences could be costly so better get the concrete polishing service of a professional instead.
Concrete Memphis TN is very beautiful. It makes any landscape or any architectural layout look elegant and appealing. However, concrete slabs – particularly in areas with high humidity can start to turn gray and get etched – especially if the concrete is not sealed correctly. You must keep your concrete slab in good condition as it serves as a protective covering for your valuable property. If you have concrete on your exterior, make sure that you have it sealed so that you won’t end up regretting it later.