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 slab being smoothed with a long-handled float

Concrete Tool Cleanup: Keeping floats flat, trowels smooth, and handles solid

Introduction Concrete tool cleanup means removing concrete residue and debris from floats, trowels, and handles so they stay flat and true. Do it soon after use while the slab is still workable, and focus on each tool as you walk off the job. This keeps your finishes consistent and your gear ready for the next […]

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Concrete test cube being compressed by testing machine

Concrete Moisture Problems Indoors: Why coatings fail and what to test first

Introduction Concrete moisture problems indoors occur when water moves through or sits in the slab, which can undermine coatings and sealers. This movement changes how the surface behaves and can cause failure even after installation. Start by understanding where the moisture is coming from and how the slab dries over time. First, visually inspect for

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Room with drywall installed and joint compound patches visible

Repairing Raveled Joints: Rebuilding joint edges without creating a weak strip

Introduction Repairing raveled joints means rebuilding the edge of a concrete joint where the surface material has torn loose, without creating a weak, thin strip. Raveling happens when the joint edge flakes or spalls and exposes loose material that won’t hold up under movement. This is a hands-on job: you’ll remove the loose stuff, clean

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