For those working on a construction project of any kind, time restraints, deadlines and budget limitations can often cause stress. Whether it is a DIY project or a larger commercial build, working under pressure can lead to mistakes, which nobody wants. When working with concrete, be it for foundations, driveways or bases, there is little margin for error; ensuring each stage of the concreting process is carried out properly is key to achieving strong, long-lasting results. However, a lack of preparation or rushed work can lead to simple mistakes, jeopardising the whole process.

Here at Forth Valley Concrete, we’ve outlined a few common errors when pouring and setting concrete. Avoid these, and you’re well on your way to great results.

Failing To Prepare

First up on our list of errors is a lack of preparation. As the old adage goes, ‘failing to prepare is preparing to fail’, and this is certainly true for concrete work. Ensuring that the site is properly prepared in advance of the concrete being unloaded is vital.

This includes levelling the ground, installing damp-proof membranes (DPM) and laying a sub-base. Rushing or skipping one of these steps will lead to either a bad pour, fast drying or damage to your concrete slab from the soil below.

Pouring A Bad Mix

Next on our list is an error that is all too common among DIY enthusiasts and inexperienced workers. Getting the concrete mix wrong in the first place will render it useless. This can be tricky, especially if you are without the proper tools and equipment.

Whilst mixing your own concrete is totally possible, it can be challenging to achieve a quality that is sufficient for certain projects. Fortunately, this can be avoided entirely by using trusted concrete contractors. Here at Forth Valley Concrete, we are able to supply the highest quality ready-mixed concrete directly to your site. This way, you can be sure that only the best concrete is being used for your project.

Impatience

Our third and final concreting mistake may be obvious, but it is definitely worth clarifying. Impatience always leads to lower-quality results. Whether this is rushing the levelling process or failing to thoroughly tamp the poured concrete, impatience will lead to errors and major imperfections.

The same goes for the process of setting the mix; if the mix dries too quickly this can lead to cracking. Avoid this by covering the framework and concrete with a plastic sheet to retain moisture. Similarly, if the framework is removed before the concrete is properly set, the slab will crumble, crack or simply lose its structure. Be sure to exercise patience and always allow the correct amount of time for setting.

Forth Valley Concrete

If you’re looking for trusted concrete suppliers in Glasgow and central Scotland, you’ve come to the right place. Here at Forth Valley Concrete, we’re proud to provide direct delivery of commercial and domestic concrete mixes, each engineered to suit a range of specific projects and needs.

Don’t hesitate, contact us today to discuss your requirements.

Call us on 07964 178 647 or send an email to info@forthvalleyconcrete.co.uk.