The foundation forms the base of support for any building or home. As such, concrete foundations need to remain strong and intact to properly carry structural loads down into the earth. However, due to pressure from the surrounding soil, freeze-thaw cycles, groundwater intrusion, and even improper concrete curing or construction defects, cracks and leaks can…
Post-tensioned concrete is an advanced method of reinforcing concrete elements like slabs, beams, and walls. It involves tensioning high-strength steel strands inside plastic ducts cast into the concrete during construction. Using hydraulic jacks, technicians stretch the steel cables to over 70% of their tensile capacity after the surrounding concrete has cured. This puts the concrete…
As infrastructure and buildings age, concrete demolition becomes necessary before new construction can begin. Specialized tools and controlled techniques allow concrete to be broken up and hauled away while managing environmental impacts, costs, and safety concerns. Concrete demolition companies utilize jackhammers, diamond saws, hydraulic breakers, and other methods to fracture reinforced concrete. Projects must balance…
Fresh concrete contains a lot of air bubbles that get trapped during the mixing process. This entrapped air can reduce the strength of concrete by up to 30% if it is not properly removed. The process of removing the excess air bubbles from concrete is called concrete consolidation. Concrete consolidation is critical for ensuring the…
Honeycombing in concrete represents one of the most detrimental defects in concrete construction, significantly compromising integrity. This phenomenon occurs when gaps and cavities resembling a honeycomb pattern are left behind in cured concrete. Instead of a continuous matrix, concrete contains weaknesses in the form of hollow pores and channels that permeate within. Honeycombing stems largely…
House lifting, also known as home elevation, is an intricate process that raises an entire structure to increase clearance between the first floor and the ground underneath. With weather events and flooding becoming more extreme, innovative house lifting techniques are essential for protecting properties. This article explores recent advances in dwelling lifting equipment, machinery, and…
