One of the most frequently asked questions our JL Enterprise concrete contractors in Denver get is about cracks that develop in freshly poured concrete driveways. When installed properly at the right time our Denver concrete is one of the most long lasting products you can use for you Denver concrete driveway.
Why Concrete Cracks?
Reason number 1 why concrete may crack has to do with the amount of water in the concrete mix. Concrete contractors in Denver have to be extra vigilant with how much water is in the mix. This water is added to make the concrete much easier to install. The down side to this is the excess water also greatly reduces the strength of the concrete.
Reason number 2 why concrete may crack is the rapid drying of the concrete, if concrete dries too fast it gets weak and and soft. The strength of the concrete after the initial curing period might decrease. Due to rapid water loss, plastic shrinking cracks might appear on the concrete's surface. The concrete could see reduced 28-day strength of up to 10 percent. In order to avoid this mistake your Denver concrete contractor needs to have a large enough crew to be able to take on any size project.
Reason number 3 why concrete may crack is the lack of control joints. Expansion joints are used as a transition between two surfaces and they help to absorb movement. Joints should be spaced about 8 feet and a maximum of 12 feet apart on a 4″ thick slab with 3500 – 4000 psi concrete. Saw-cut joints should be done within 4 to 12 hours after the concrete has been finished.
Other reasons
Another common reason why concrete cracks has to do with the weather and the temperature the concrete is poured in. Denver concrete contractors have to plan and choose a date where the temperature is at least 40 °F and 60 °F
The sub grade must be prepared according to your soil conditions. Some flatwork can be poured right on the correct grade. In other areas 6"of base fill is required along with rebar or wire mesh installed in the concrete.
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