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Contractors > Tips
Finishing
Tips, FAQs and Glossary 1.
Finishing tips
The
pour
Our mixers are able to reach tight spaces that the “big boys”
can’t — so our experienced operator will back up the
truck to your work area and pour the concrete for you. We’ll
also be able to give any on-the-site advice you need.
If the project
is in an area that vehicles can’t reach (such as next to a
backyard swimming pool), our operator will dispense the concrete
into wheelbarrows for you. If you need hauling equipment, we’ll
be happy to rent you sturdy wheelbarrows at a reasonable rate.
The
finish
Once your project has been poured, level it off using a straight
edge or screed. Let the finish stay rough — don’t overwork
it. Then use a bull float to bring the “cream” to the
top.
Wait until the
“bleed water” evaporates from the surface before finishing.
When your footprint leaves an impression only 1/4 inch deep, it’s
ready.
Finish off the
concrete by smoothing its surface with a broom or trowel (either
a hand or power trowel will work).
2. FAQs
(TOP)
We’re providing these
frequently asked questions to give you a quick reference for making
your project a success. If you don’t see your question here,
feel free to contact us.
1.
What does Handyman
Concrete®
supply that a full-size readymix supplier
can’t?
2. Can you mix to different specifications?
3. How long will it take for the concrete to cure?
4. How thick should the application of concrete
be?
5. What is Fibermesh and what are its
benefits?
6. What is the minimum amount of concrete I can
order?
7. Do I have to call off my delivery if it rains
or snows?
8. Do you deliver on weekends?
9. How far in advance should I schedule a delivery?
10. Can I pay by credit card?
1. What does
Handyman Concrete®
supply that
a full-size readymix supplier can’t?
Convenience. We can deliver small amounts —
as little as 1 yard — and our small trucks maneuver in tight
spaces. Plus, we deliver on your schedule. Tell us the time and
we’ll be there, any day of the week. If you need friendly
advice for tough weather or tough jobs, we’re here. See Services
for more details.
TOP >> FAQs
2. Can you mix to different specifications?
Sure, we’re happy to ready-mix to your specifications.
We offer quality admixtures: retarders, air entrainment and calcium
chloride. If you have a job with special requirements, we’ll
be happy to advise you — we’ve provided the right mix
for thousands of projects. Concrete is what we know best.
TOP >> FAQs
3. How long will it take for the concrete
to cure?
It depends on the project. Below are listed approximate
cure times for some typical jobs. Curing times can be affected by
weather conditions (slower in cold weather, faster on hot days)
and other variables, so these times are just estimates. If you have
questions about your specific project, feel free to call
us for advice.
Job |
Waiting
Time |
Hot
tub pads |
Placing
the tub on the pad — 24 hours
Filling the tub with water — 1 week |
Patios
and sidewalks |
Foot
traffic — 24 hours |
Driveways |
Foot
traffic — 24 hours
Parking car on surface — 1 week |
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>> FAQs
4. How thick should I apply the concrete?
Each job is different. Call
us and we’ll be happy to tell you what density will work
best for your particular project.
TOP
>> FAQs
5. What is Fibermesh and what are its
benefits?
Fibermesh gives you economical, state-of-the-art
concrete reinforcement for projects requiring greater tensile strength.
It’s a support system that reinforces concrete from within.
Made of synthetic fibers, it reduces plastic settlement and shrinkage
cracks. It’s durable, low-maintenance and provides reinforcement
evenly throughout the layer of concrete. For more details about
Fibermesh, visit Synthetic Industries.
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>> FAQs
6. What is the minimum amount of concrete
I can order?
You can order as little as 1 yard of concrete. A
full load is 5 yards. To find out how much you need for your project,
use our calculator.
TOP
>> FAQs
7. Do I have to call off
my delivery if it rains or
snows?
We deliver in all kinds of weather. If you’re
concerned about the weather conditions for your particular job,
call us for a recommendation.
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>> FAQs
8. Do you deliver on weekends?
We deliver 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Just call
us by 6 p.m. weekdays or by noon on Saturdays and we’ll
deliver any time — whether it’s 3 a.m., 3 p.m. or midnight.
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>> FAQs
9. How
far in advance should I schedule a delivery?
Although we can often accommodate same-day service,
1-2 days’ advance notice is preferable.
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>> FAQs
9.
Can I pay by credit card?
Sure...you
can pay by cash or credit when you make the appointment. You can also
pay COD.
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>> FAQs
3. Glossary
(TOP)
accelerator —
additive that speeds curing time
air-entrained — contains tiny
bubbles that help prevent cracking caused by freezing water
calcium chloride — chemical that
acts as an accelerating agent
Fibermesh — internal support
system made of synthetic fibers; substantially reduces plastic settlement
and shrinkage cracks. For more details, visit the Synthetic
Industries site.
retarder — slows curing time
to offset climactic conditions
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