A trade qualified concreter can lay driveways, footpaths and shed slabs. They can also create exposed aggregate finishes for pool surrounds.
When choosing a concreter, it is important to look at their previous work. You should also consider whether they are available and understand your project’s specific concreting requirements.
Slab laying
The first step in laying Concreter Mackay slabs is to prepare the base. This involves placing a bed of road base or crusher dust 6-7cm thick, raking and tamping it down to create a level surface. This ensures the foundation of the slab is solid and prevents cracking.
Once the base is in place, it is necessary to install any utilities that will be embedded in the slab. This includes plumbing, electrical wiring and telecommunication conduits. A thorough inspection is performed to determine the precise trajectories and locations of these systems. This helps to avoid future modifications that could interfere with structural integrity or incur expensive costs.
Steel rebar is the dominant reinforcement material, with specific grade and size chosen for each project based on anticipated loads and soil characteristics. It is arranged in a grid pattern and precisely spaced to meet the structural demands of the slab. Spacers or chairs are used to elevate the reinforcing bars off of the compacted road base and ensure they are fully encased by concrete.
Formwork
Formwork is a term used to describe specialised concrete construction moulds that wet concrete is poured into. This enables the concrete to set in its final shape and size. Once the concrete is dry and deemed safe, the formwork is stripped away to reveal the finished structure. Formwork is a crucial aspect of any construction project as it ensures site safety and structural integrity in the vital early stages of any building work.
Choosing a professional formwork company allows you to save money and avoid the risk of costly damage or accidents occurring on your jobsite. Hiring formwork professionals also eliminates the need to maintain equipment yourself, which can be time-consuming and expensive.
Cutting
Cutting is a highly specialised practice, and one that requires the appropriate tools to get the job done. It can be hazardous due to the high level of dust generated by concrete cutting, so it is important that proper safety precautions are in place. This includes wearing personal protective equipment, securing the work area and using dust suppression techniques to minimise exposure risks.
A reputable concreting contractor will have the knowledge and experience to perform all types of concrete cutting projects, from residential home slabs and sheds to driveways and footpaths. They will also have the expertise to construct retaining walls and other structural elements.
Brendan Schembri is a trade qualified concreter who offers domestic, commercial and industrial concreting services. His work covers new shed and house slabs, driveways and footpaths, as well as coloured and exposed aggregate concrete finishes for pool surrounds. He is based in Mackay and provides free quotes for his work.