Many people are quite knowledgeable about the basics of concrete installation, especially with something like what it would take for a concreter to prepare for a concrete job, but when it comes to the right way to do the job, well then, that is anyone’s guess.
Knowing the basic steps involved in installing a concrete, would help guide you through what to expect when hiring any contractor; things to look out for in them. You might be planning for a concrete project job, but you should know this, that paving is not always completed the same day as the prep work.
Another thing you should know is, any contractor you will be hiring for your driveway paving in Miami should be experienced enough to know what way is best to prepare your home or worksite for any installation of concrete.
Now, we give you the six basic pre-installation steps that every contractor should be able to follow.
The Six Steps
- Date Estimation
An experienced contractor should, in advance, know when they will be able to start on your concrete installation, and then, in turn, be able to let you know, as this will give you ample time to prepare.
- Mark Out Project
The contracting team should be able to mark out your concrete project, and this includes both defining and squaring out the edges, as this will give a neat and straight appearance.
- Building the Base
After the contractors have inspected the area that needs to be worked on and notice that there needs to be an excavation work done at that spot, then the dirt and debris portion will be cut 8 inches to 10 inches deep. And in place of this, 6 inches to 8 inches of crushed material should be placed so as to provide a base. There are usually different base materials, as these will support different jobs.
- Take off Old Pavement (If necessary)
Old pavements are usually removed and recycled, and this is mostly on existing asphalt and concrete removals.
- Drainage Requirement and Forms
Once your contractor(s) are decided on the drainage requirements and when the finished grade is established, forms will then be put around the edges of the concrete paving area. If they see that an extra crushed stone base is required to elevate and give more support to the already existing base, this will be added.
- Adding the Grid Reinforcing Steel
After all the above steps are taken, then the grid reinforcing steel is added, this is done so it gives extra tensile strength to the paving. Once this prep work is done, now is the time to start pouring your concrete pavement. Sometimes, soft areas could be found, and this might need some extra attention, and for this, many contractors might require you to make some additional payment to the one you’ve already put down.
