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 driveway ramp with textured surface and striped sides

Concrete Moisture Mapping With RH Probes vs Handheld Meters: Choosing the Right Method

Introduction RH probes map moisture in concrete by measuring relative humidity within the slab and comparing it to a calibrated standard. They assess moisture deeper in the concrete rather than just the surface, giving a more complete picture for decisions on finishing or coatings. This article will compare that approach with handheld meters in plain, […]

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Four rectangular concrete slabs with handwritten markings

Chloride Ion Testing in Old Slabs: When Salt Exposure Is the Real Problem

Introduction Chloride ion testing in old slabs is a way to find out whether salt exposure is the real problem behind concrete issues. It helps separate chloride-related damage from other moisture or subfloor failures. In plain terms, it’s part of diagnosing why a floor isn’t performing as you’d expect. Many times, moisture problems drive cracking,

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Worker pouring concrete slab with shovel and chute

Rapid Chloride Permeability (RCPT) and Alternatives: What “Low Permeability” Really Means

Introduction RCPT is a test that measures how fast chlorides pass through cured concrete. It’s a practical yardstick for judging how resistant your concrete may be to corrosion of embedded steel. This article breaks down what low permeability really means in plain language for DIY projects. We’ll cover the basic steps you’d see in an

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