Concrete

Concrete is where I keep my step-by-step guides for planning, pouring, and finishing concrete projects.

Topics include base prep, forms, reinforcement, thickness, mixing and placing, finishing, curing, sealing, and long-term durability. I also cover troubleshooting—what to do when concrete cracks, scales, dusts, or cures unevenly.

If you’re new to concrete, start with the planning and prep articles. They prevent most of the expensive mistakes.

Concrete mixer truck delivering concrete at construction site

Removing Curing Compounds Before Coatings: How to Test and Strip the Film

Introduction Remove curing compounds before coatings to ensure proper adhesion and a clean, durable finish. The guide walks through how to test for residual film, choose practical stripping methods, and apply steps that balance effectiveness with surface safety, so you’ll know what to check and how to proceed in real-world applications. Key takeaways Test cure […]

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Concrete Surface Profile for Coatings: How to “feel” If It’s Ready

Concrete Surface Profile for Coatings: How to “Feel” If It’s Ready

Introduction You can determine a concrete surface’s readiness for coatings by assessing its surface profile. The guide explains why this matters for adhesion and durability, and it walks you through practical steps, tips, and rules of thumb to evaluate texture, cleanliness, and uniformity. You’ll learn how to identify when the surface meets basic criteria and

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Integral Waterproofing Additives: What They Do and What They *don’t* Do

Integral Waterproofing Additives: What They Do and What They *Don’t* Do

Introduction Integral waterproofing additives are incorporated into the concrete mix to reduce water ingress by altering the pore structure, not by coating the surface. This article explains what they can and cannot do in real-world conditions and highlights practical considerations for selection, mix design, and curing. You’ll learn how to evaluate suitability, plan mix steps,

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