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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 answer any questions you have and offer on-the-spot advice.

If your 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. What are the benefits of using Handyman Concrete®  rather than mixing  the Concrete myself?
3. I’ve never worked with Concrete before. Is that a problem?
4. How can I tell what kind of mix I’ll need for my project?
5. How long will it take for the Concrete to harden (cure)?
6. How thick should the application of Concrete be?
7. What is Fibermesh and what are its benefits?
8. What is the minimum amount of Concrete I can order?
9. Do I have to call off my delivery if it rains or snows?
10. Do you deliver on weekends?
11. How far in advance should I schedule a delivery?
12. Can I pay by credit card?

1. 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, our staff will give you the time and attention that larger suppliers can’t. We’ll answer your questions, give you advice and deliver on your schedule. Tell us the time and we’ll be there, any day of the week. See Services for more details.

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2. What are the benefits of using Handyman Concrete® rather than mixing Concrete myself?

Ask anyone who’s ever hauled bags from the store, mixed them by hand and poured each one separately, and you’ll hear all the advantages of calling Handyman Concrete® for any job requiring 1 yard of Concrete or more: you’ll save time and frustration — and get more consistency in the final product. Handyman uses high-quality materials, so the composition and consistency of the mix itself will be superior too. See our calculator to find out how much Concrete you’ll need for your project.

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3. What if I’ve never laid Concrete before?

No problem — our dispatchers and operators are used to helping everyone from first-time do-it-yourselfers to professional construction crews who need advice on jobs involving unusual site conditions.

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4. How can I tell what kind of mix my project needs?

Just give us a call and tell us your plans. We’ll tell you which mix will work best for your particular job.

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5. How long will it take for the Concrete to harden (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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6. How thick should I apply the Concrete?

Each job is different. Call us and ask what density will work best for your particular project.

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7. What is Fibermesh and what are its benefits?

Fibermesh is an economical way for homeowners to get 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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8. 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.

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9. 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 — or any other aspect of the project — call us for a recommendation.

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10. 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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11. 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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12. 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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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