A Few Concrete Driveway Construction Problems and Their Solutions

Though concrete is easier to manage, the builders constructing concrete driveways in Central Coast, Newcastle and Gosford face many problems if they do not follow the procedures or due to several other factors. 

Some of the most common problems in concrete driveways include shrinkage, discolouration, scaling, etc. So, today we will be discussing some of these problems and the ways how they can be fixed effectively.

1. A change of colours

Concrete generally does not lose colour easily if they have been mixed properly by the professionals carrying out the concrete driveway service in Central Coast. But, the discolouration of the concrete can take place if sudden changes occur on the cement material such as the calcium chloride is added or the finishing operations are rushed. Otherwise, weather changes can also lead to these problems.

To solve these problems, the professionals will mix other components with the concrete in the proper ratio and prepare the subgrade in a uniform manner. Also, they will wait for the water to evaporate before constructing the driveway.

2. Scaling problem

This is another type of concrete problem that builders often face while constructing the driveways. 

Scaling is basically breaking away from the surface of the concrete. Sometimes, the concrete also peels away making the driveway look extremely bad. At the same time, inadequate concrete strength, or curing procedure can also contribute to scaling.

For solving this problem, the builders use low slump air in the mixture and wait till the water evaporates from the concrete. Also, the builders avoid using chemicals or salt in the concrete especially when it's winter.

3. Crazing problem

Crazing is another problem that builders providing concrete driveway service in Newcastle face and it occurs when cracks appear on the surface. Typically, these cracks show up after the cement paste is developed. Basically, these cracks develop when the slab is damp.

However, the builders solve all of these problems efficiently. They do this by using a moderate slump concrete without segregation or bleeding. Also, they do only finish the concrete after the water has completely evaporated.

Some of the other measures that they take are avoiding sprinkling of water over the concrete and dust drying when there is water on the surface.

4. Cracks on the surface

Cracks are very much natural on the concrete driveway but the professionals know how to control them. Cracks can come from several problems such as shrinkage problem and contraction along with pressure or subgrade settlement. However, sometimes water pressure can also lead to these cracks.

Therefore, to remove them, the professionals providing concrete driveway service in Gosford remove soft spots, topsoil and other materials on the subgrade. Then they install concrete joints on the driveway and do not finish the process unless the bleeding stops.

5. Curling problem

This is another problem that concreters face. In curling, the driveway surface does not support the base and this happens due to difference in both moisture and temperature. 

To solve the issue, the concreters place the joints of the concrete accordingly and do not use much water. Additionally, they also apply top mixes in thin coats to ensure proper bonding.