Sometimes, mistakes can be made by DIY people when working with concrete that effectively ruins all their efforts. Even though a project can be well thought out and planned, it can still be easy to err when mixing, pouring or finishing the concrete. This article looks at some of the most common DIY mistakes made when working with concrete and how to avoid them.

Forgetting to Check the Weather

Something as simple as not checking the weather forecast can have complications for the concrete used in the project. Rain will ruin the concrete, and letting concrete dry overnight, in cold conditions can affect the final quality of the concrete. Prolonged hot weather can adversely affect the concrete as it sets as well. Plastic sheeting that has not been securely weighed down over the concrete can blow off in windy conditions.

To save yourself trouble, always check the coming weather conditions; let them determine when the job should be done.

Preparing the Site Wrong

Another common mistake is not properly preparing the site where the concrete is to be poured. The site should be compacted down properly to ensure that an even layer can be distributed over it. Also, any thin or insufficient parts of the site can settle after the concrete is poured; this affects the quality of the finish. Before you pour the concrete, have a last check of the site to ensure that it is even, and that there are no weak or thin parts to the overall layering. Tamp down any uneven parts and add some more mix to thin parts.

Finishing Poorly

The fact that working with concrete for a long period of time can be tiring may be the reason that poor finishing is another common mistake. Neglecting to do some finishing work on wet concrete will cause problems later on. To finish the concrete, you must 'screed' it. Take a board and move it, edgewise, over the top of the concrete in a back and forth manner. This will even out the concrete as it sits, and the board will collect any excess concrete. Move the board all the way up to the edge of the forms you are using, to ensure a complete finish.

Removing the Forms Too Early

Many projects fail due to the removal of the forms before the concrete has fully set. Some people get mixed up by the terms setting and curing. Curing takes weeks, while the setting of the concrete should take no more than forty eight hours. Most concretes will say that they dry in 24 hours, but it is better to allow another 24 hours before removing the forms. This ensures that the concrete will not collapse.

Avoiding these common mistakes will help you to get a better finished result when working with concrete. For more tips or assistance, contact companies like Allied Concrete Cutting & Drilling Pty Ltd.