The Value of Consistency In Concrete Driveway Installation

Consistency is a primary requirement in installing a concrete driveway. In construction industry, consistency refers to the degree of density or firmness of the fundamental material used which is concrete. Consistency should govern driveway installation because without it, the end result would be a driveway of poor quality.

 

When consistency is observed in driveway installation, this means that the specified concrete is the one that your contractor will work on the site or that the specified concrete mixed on site will not lose the qualities it must have when it is pre-mixed. The strength of concrete used for driveways is between 3000 to 4000 psi. Psi means pounds per square inch and it is a unit of pressure or stress. 

   

            There are conditions that affect the required psi or strength for concrete driveways. Among them are mortar loss, too much pressure on the mortar, water cement ratio and air content. Mostly, water cement ratio is the primary reason why concrete driveways experience random cracking and shrinkage, as the strength of concrete used for driveway is compromised.

            Water cement ratio influences the workability of fresh concrete. If the water cement ratio is higher, this means there is too much water in the mix. The strength of concrete driveway is dependent on the volume of the freshly mixed concrete used for it during the initial steps of its installation. The addition of water affects the volume of the concrete by decreasing its compressive strength.

            Another factor that influences the consistency and workability of concrete is its air content. Considering the air content of the concrete you ordered is a must, especially if you install a driveway in cold climates. The air content suggested to maintain the strength of concrete is 5 to 7%. Air entrainment is done by adding admixtures to fresh concrete that entrains air by forming very small air bubbles. During a freeze-thraw cycle, moisture that didn't enter the concrete would expand in those air bubbles or air pockets. Air entrainment prevents the concrete getting pressure from moisture and improves the integrity of concrete.

             However, the air content of pre-mixed concrete or cement can be changed during the transportation of material and if gets too much moisture even before it is delivered to the site, not to mention how improper cement water ratio may further affect it. 

            Bottom line is you must hire a contractor that would give you the quality material needed for your concrete driveway and that this material is properly prepared during the installation process.