Areas of Expertise

Everything starts with the site.  The sites owner will certainly have an idea of what must happen, but we are very careful to watch out for hidden pitfalls.  For example, the type of earth that the concrete must lay on can be an issue.  Similarly, one must watch for slope such that water is guided away from any structures and does not pool.  There are many such issues and we will bring them up to your attention at the site inspection.

Once a project is under way, the first item is site cleanup.  Plants and bushes are removed.  Excess dirt is hauled away.  Any pre-existing concrete is removed.  This is done with pick axes, pneumatic jack hammers, diamond saws, and sometimes small earth moving machines. 

Next, the areas designated for pours are prepared.  Concrete slabs are usually a minimum of 4 inches thick.  Sometimes some earth must be excavated so that the slab can sit flat.  When the shape of the slab is ready, the earth is compacted with a special machine that pounds the earth.  This is done so that the concrete slab will settle a minimum amount. 

At this point, the site is ready for the forms.  The forms are made of 2 inch wood that is checked for optimum consistency and straightness.  The inside walls of the forms will form the outside of the concrete slabs.  These are held in place with stakes.  If you draw a line from one form to another, that line will represent the exact top of the concrete.  This line must slope away from any buildings and it is recommenced that the form also have a slight slope away from any building.  If this is done correctly, water will flow away from the buildings thereby protecting the foundation.

The site owner is then invited to inspect the forms.  Any issues can be easily resolved at this point.  Obviously, after the concrete is poured, the cost of fixing a mistake is much higher!!

Upon approval, the concrete is poured from a concrete mixing truck.  Concrete poured by AQB Concrete is a minimum 4000psi compressive strength and is reinforced with fibers when it is mixed.  Trained workers manipulate the concrete such that it is perfectly flat and smooth.  Care must be taken not to overwork the concrete and weaken it.  Relief lines are cut into the concrete at specific intervals so that any cracks are controlled. 

The concrete pour is now done. It may be walked on the following day or driven on in seven days.

The next step is cleanup. We will remove all of the forms and fill in any areas that were disturbed.

Often the site owner will write us a letter about how happy he or she is. See our Happy Customers page for some examples!