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.

Hand holding paint roller with orange paint above drop cloth

Painting Over Fresh Concrete: pH Testing, Wait Times, and Primer Selection

Introduction Painting over fresh concrete means making sure the slab is ready and won’t ruin your paint job; that starts with testing alkalinity, letting the concrete cure, and choosing a primer that matches the slab’s condition. In plain jobsite terms: test surface pH, wait the right amount of time based on the product you plan […]

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Stacked hollow core concrete slabs showing open cores

Concrete pH Testing for Paint and Coatings: A Step-by-Step Timeline of DIY Methods

Introduction Before you start painting or coating your concrete surfaces, it’s crucial to test the pH level to ensure optimal adhesion. But how long does this process take? Let’s break down a simple timeline for concrete pH testing using DIY methods. The entire process can be completed in less than an hour, but proper planning

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paint roller with blue handle and paint tray on floor