When you opt to construct a concrete patio, driveway, or other surfaces, you could be thinking about doing a DIY version of pouring the concrete. Sadly, this method usually leads to some aesthetic and practical problems or even safety problems especially if you don’t ask for the assistance of the expert concrete contractor. Read on to know more about the things you should be aware of before starting your personal DIY concrete project and the possible risks you could run into if it’s incorrectly done: 

Lack of safety precautions 

There is a reason that OSHA has provided particular safety standards intended for construction workers. Every time you are working with potentially dangerous materials and tools and heavy equipment, it’s vital to follow the proper safety precautions.  

Concrete is quite a safe material to use and work with. Hence, it is important to protect your skin, respiratory system, ears, and eyes as you pour and mix concrete. Moreover, you should be careful as you lift heavy materials to avoid getting an unwanted injury. 

Using the wrong tools 

Utilizing inappropriate tools can only result in cracks, holes, bumps, and an uneven surface. Heavy-duty and strong equipment and tools are needed if you’re working with concrete because plastic or wooden tools usually snap as you work. Since it is time-sensitive to pour concrete, you must have everything you will be using on hand before you start mixing your concrete.  

Weather conditions 

Wind and rain are two of the common weather condition that can harm your concrete during the days and house after pouring it. Moreover, it’s essential to think about the long-term effects of the climate of your area on the appearance and durability of your concrete. 

Incorrect preparation 

Clearing debris and plants and excavating the area using a shovel won’t be enough to ready a site for pouring concrete. When your concrete sits over loose soil, it has a tendency to rapidly begin to degrade, crumble, and crack while the soil settles. If you want to prevent cracks and get concrete that will last long, it’s vital to make a firm base, which involves leveling the surface carefully, guaranteeing that tie soil is packed tightly, installing, building, and leveling borders/forms. 

When should you contact a concrete expert? 

The greatest means of guaranteeing that you’ll wind up with aesthetically pleasing, durable, and high-quality concrete is to collaborate with a team that’s composed of experienced and knowledgeable professionals who can easily be accessible within your place and knows about the usual climate you have.  

When if you are pouring a basic slab of concrete on the level ground amidst the dry and mild summer, you might be able to do it by yourself. But if you are not sure about the things you need and want, you are handling with the uneven or sloped ground, you have a specific custom texture, color, or design in mind, you lack the proper tools needed, or you’re just not comfortable doing it, then never hesitate to contact a professional Asheville concrete contractor.