The cost of building a concrete benchtop will depend on whether you have them professionally installed or you go the DIY route. Also, the cost will increase if you are going to personalise your design. Concrete can be cast into any shape, stained, or textured with various types of finished. You can even embed tiles, stones, and other materials in it.

Pros and Cons of concrete benchtops

• Concrete is durable, but it can crack

The strength of concrete is due to the cement and sand mix, and it can be moulded based on the design you want. In fact, concrete is the same material that creates sidewalks, so it is a viable option for benchtops.
However, concrete can crack, especially if it was poured in place rather than pre-cast. So, it is essential that you do some countermeasures to prevent cracks to a certain extent, and you can do this by adding rebar, fibre reinforcement, and wire mesh. Although some cracks may happen due to the natural settling of the house, they won’t be that significant.

• Cracks can be fixed, but concrete is also susceptible to stains and scratches

Cracks can be fixed using sealers, and those fractures are usually not noticeable on your benchtop. However, concrete is also susceptible to scratches and stains, and they can be absorbed by your concrete if you don’t remove them right away. In fact, bacteria can also accumulate in your concrete counter, so it is a must to seal the surface upon installation.
Also, sealing will make your benchtop heat, stain, and scratch-resistant, but even sealed concrete will show markings, especially if exposed to red wine, olive oil, juice, or coffee. That is why it is essential that you clean your concrete benchtop regularly so you can remove dirt and stains.

• Concrete is very durable

You won’t find any material on the market that is more durable than concrete. Yes, it can acquire scratches and stains but so can every other material, including marble and granite. Some people are bothered by concrete’s imperfections, but other homeowners love its rustic look and feel.
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The bottom line
If you are looking for perfection, concrete may not be the right material for you but if you love that rugged and rustic aesthetic and you are passionate about patina, we recommend that you try a concrete benchtop or even construct your entire home using concrete. You just need to do your research and most importantly, maintain it properly.

There are four popular types of concrete used for building homes and commercial structures, and each of them has their unique advantages and disadvantages. In fact, they are the favourite of contractors because they are flexible and very durable.

Here are the four common types of concrete houses:

• Concrete blocks

Concrete blocks are one of the most affordable options on the market, and they can be manufactured quickly and easily. A lot of people think of them as being solid, big blocks that are used on buildings and skyscrapers. But some concrete blocks are very small and made for a specific aesthetic purpose, while other blocks are very large and simply designed for a more economic reason. So, it all depends on the type of house it will be used on.

• Precast panels

Precast panes are commonly built inside a plan, and transported to the job site or where the home is being constructed. Generally, they will look good and stylish but they can be more expensive than other types of concrete materials like concrete blocks.

• Insulating concrete forms

These concrete forms are hollow and are commonly filled with reinforced concrete. But the main benefit of this material is its insulation properties since the form stays in even when concrete has been poured inside it. However, this concrete is generally not pretty to look at and may not be flexible to use.

• Removable forms

These are conventional concrete forms usually used to build basement walls and are also popular for the many insulation options they offer. But like concrete forms, they are also not aesthetically pleasing.

What are the costs?
How much does it cost to build a modern concrete home? As with many other questions regarding budget, it all depends on the complexity, requirements, and specifications of the one building the house. However, most concrete homes are significantly cheaper than houses built with more conventional materials like wood and bricks.

So, a 1,800 square-foot home which is the common measurement in most countries around the world, have a modest cost. This home will usually take the form of a cube and not be that aesthetically pleasing. Although the owner can upgrade the look of their home by adding more sections and entertainment areas.

If you are looking for a reliable concreter in Canberra, contact us today!

Modern concrete homes are usually built using stone aggregates, cement, water, and sand. This is the most popular recipe combined with several chemical properties to make the concrete durable and strong.

Concrete homes are usually built using the same process as regular houses. It follows the same blueprint to a regular wood-frame house. However, concrete is commonly paired with steel reinforcements and other materials. This process will ensure the durability of the structure while ensuring that it is aesthetically pleasing rather than plain and ugly.

Concrete blocks
Concrete blocks are used and preferred by various building contractors due to their minimal carbon footprint. They are very versatile and also sustainable, so they are environmentally friendly.

They are also the most common material in building concrete homes. To produce the concrete blocks that are often used in building homes and other big structures, concrete is a required material, and masons cast it into what is known as a reusable mould. The reusable mould is taken to a controlled environment and cured, but it must follow certain protocols like an ideal temperature to achieve the desired effects.

The processing plant is taken to the job site and used by concreters in their project. This process is effortless, with minimal effects on the environment since it has very small carbon footprint. Most importantly, it has significantly contributed to the popularity of modern concrete homes.

Pros and cons of concrete homes?
Pros:

• Walls can be constructed quickly with minimal effort
• It is unaffected by extreme temperatures and termites
• It has good noise isolation properties
• Concrete homes don’t need a house wrap since it provides isolation for hot and cold weather

Cons:

• Building concrete homes requires experience and expertise
• It takes a bit more to build it properly
• Some concrete block may look boring and drab if it is not applied correctly
  

Why you need a professional contractor concreter

If you’re planning to build a concrete home or any other repair project that involves concrete, it is always a good idea to hire professionals to do the job for you. In fact, the main reason why it is essential to hire a reputable concrete contractor is their expertise and they can save you time and money. Plus, you are assured that they can fulfil your requirements and specifications.
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Most importantly, they can accomplish the project in an orderly and timely manner without delays and other inconveniences.

Learn here about placing and finishing concrete.

If you are planning to build concrete pool surrounds, a driveway, patio floor, or a polished concrete floor, you will need to choose an ideal colour that will complement your house and something you will love for years to come.

When choosing a colour for decorative concrete, there are several things to consider. Here are some tips:

Colour matching
If you are matching colours, it is essential to use as few colours as necessary so as not to detract from your home’s current colour. Also, the colour must complement or contrast the existing colour scheme of your home. We recommend that you choose neutral colours for outdoor projects to produce more natural-looking driveways and paths. In contrast, darker coloured concrete is more suitable for creating a striking polished concrete floor.

You may also use various textures and shades of concrete since that can create defined and separate living spaces.

Natural environment
For home-building and other renovation projects, you can take inspiration from several natural materials in your environment. In fact, for exposed aggregate and polished concrete, you can use Australian natural stones which are exclusive in your area. We recommend that you use varying neutral shades of tan, brown, and green so you can find the best colour for your project.

Finish and texture
The look and feel of your decorative concrete will depend on your concreter's finishing and installation methods. So, it is important to consider the function and finish of the concrete surface when you are choosing a colour. If you aim for a smooth and honed finish, it is best to apply it on your internal wet areas and polished floors like pool surrounds and other outdoor entertainment areas.

Fixture and furniture
If you are renovating your existing home, you might want to follow the colour scheme of your furniture when installing a polished concrete floor. Also, if you are laying decorative concrete on your outdoor area, you might want to consider the ambiance and look of your existing landscape. Choose the colours that might complement your surroundings.

Using multiple materials
You can also combine or layer multiple building materials to accomplish a more modern design. This means you can mix and match natural materials such as stone and timber to create a dramatic contrast with your decorative coloured concrete or exposed aggregate.

Overall, when you are choosing the colour of your concrete, you should think about the other materials that you might use with or alongside it. You should also consider hiring a professional to assist with the design, as well as the preparation, placing and finishing of the concrete.

Weather conditions at a job site may not be the same as those specified by manufacturers in their manual. In fact, laboratory conditions in which concrete specimens are tested are usually done in an area suitable for producing the best results. Therefore, concrete should be placed in a secure area, especially in cold weather conditions.

This means the warehouse or enclosures must provide adequate precautions to avoid the negative impacts of low ambient temperatures. Based on guidelines released by the American Concrete Institute (ACI), the definition of cold weather concreting is when the average daily temperature falls below 10 degrees for more than 12 hours, as this could potentially lead to concrete freezing issues.

Protecting concrete during cold weather
During cold weather, it is essential to at heat one or more of the concrete materials, including the water and aggregates used in the mix. This will provide the appropriate concrete temperature before it is used on the job site.

Protection while the concrete is finished, placed, and consolidated
Exposure of concrete during cold weather will extend the time of crews on the site, especially concreters assigned on the finishing. That is why it is essential to use enclosures, windbreaks, and other supplementary heating tools. It is also recommended to adjust the concrete mixture during the setting time. So, cement content will be increased, or accelerating chemical admixture shall be used for maximum effect.
Also, windbreaks are relatively important at the construction site since they can protect the personnel from biting winds that may cause excessive evaporation and temperature drops. The common height used is six feet for most construction projects. However, windbreaks could also be shorter or taller depending on the anticipated ambient temperatures, wind velocities, humidity, and concrete placement temperatures.
Another protective gear to consider are heated enclosures since they are very effective in protecting concrete in cold weather, but they are usually more expensive than windbreaks. Most enclosures are made of canvas tarpaulins or polyethene.
Using heaters
Three types of heaters are used in cold weather concrete constructions, including indirect-fired, direct-fired, and hydronic systems. Indirect-fired heaters are commonly used on fresh concrete surfaces. Direct-fired heaters are suitable for concrete that has not been subjected to the exhaust directly.
However, caution should not be taken lightly to ensure that workers are not overexposed to carbon monoxide commonly used inside the enclosure. Hydronic systems are high-tech applications for preheating and thawing subgrades, but they are too large for an enclosure and are widely used in large warehouses.

Handling, transporting, and mixing concrete must be coordinated with finishing and placing operations. In fact, the timing must be perfect since it should not be deposited too rapidly on the surface, or the contractor will face several finishing issues. Therefore, it is important to only hire a qualified and experienced concreting contractor in Canberra.

If you are constructing concrete slabs, the concrete should be placed along the perimeter, with each batch piled against previously dispatched slabs. This will ensure that each concrete slab has cured according to industry standards.
 
Consolidation
In other types of construction, concrete should be placed in forms, then it must be consolidated after. This is because consolidation will compact fresh concrete so it can mould within and around the form. It will also eliminate honeycomb, stone pockets, and entrapped air.

Also, when concrete is vibrated, it will no longer aggregate particles that settle in the forms under the action of gravity, and the large entrapped air voids will no longer appear on the surface. This is the main reason why consolidation is essential since it will ensure that concrete is tightly placed.

Finishing
For concrete that will be visible on patios, driveways, and various types of structures, finishing is a must. In fact, a concrete surface can be finished in several ways, depending on its intended application. Some of the options will include textures, colours, design, and patterns on the surface. Some surfaces may require a different approach like screeding and strike off to properly place elevation and contour. At the same time, other surfaces may need a floated, broomed, or trowelled finish.

The process
Screeding is a common finishing method, and it is usually done to cut off excess concrete and bring the top surface to correct grade. Concreters also use the bull floating method to eliminate high and low spots and embed large aggregate particles after screeding.
 
Jointing is also required to eliminate random cracks and is usually done by inserting plastic strips, metal, wood, or preformed joint material into the unhardened concrete. After joining, the concrete must be floated with metal, wood, or a finishing machine with float blades. This will prevent any imperfections like voids and humps. It also compacts the mortar at the surface in preparation for further finishing activities.

However, trowelling should not be done on a surface that has not been floated recently because it is not an adequate finish procedure. Trowelling without floating may lead to imperfections and cracks on the concrete surface.

Lastly, brooming should be done on the surface of the concrete before it has thoroughly hardened since it will create a slip-resistant coating for safety reasons.

If you are planning on building a patio in your backyard, you may need to consider several important factors before beginning your project like finding the right location and some maintenance requirements that you need to fulfil once the structure is constructed.

In this article, we will share some of the things you need to decide upon before building your patio.

Finding the best location
If you have limited space in your backyard, you probably don’t have many options especially when it comes to location. However, when you have ample outdoor space, establishing the best location is important. For this purpose, it’s best to get in touch with a landscape designer since they can advise you on the best place for your patio. This will be an area ideal for entertainment and leisure activities.

How do you plan to use the patio?
For convenience, it is better to have a patio located closer to your house or some outdoor cooking facilities. This is ideal for parties and gatherings since you are close to your kitchen. However, if you want a place to lounge, it’s best to construct your patio near the garden. You may also want to add some amenities and furniture to your outdoor space like day beds, a fire pit, or concrete benches.

Is the site level?
It is also important to choose an area in your backyard that is level and not in a steep spot since this will help reduce the overall costs of building a patio. It must also have sufficient access since this will minimise additional outlay.

What materials to use?
Depending on the size of your outdoor space, you need to find the materials that will help create a more cohesive landscape. So, if you have a larger backyard, you have more flexibility when it comes to the materials of your patio, like using bricks on the floor surface, concrete on the outdoor fixtures, wood on the outer wall.
However, you must also consider the details of your surrounding landscape to create that visual connection that gives your patio a unique look and feel.

The size
The size of your patio will all comes down to how you plan to use the space. So, if you plan to entertain a large crowd or just dine outside with your family, your patio will need a big area.

DIY or hire a professional contractor?
If you plan to build a patio yourself as a cheaper option, you need to prepare a lot of things and that will take time, money, and effort. However, that will also cut costs since you may be doing the heavy lifting on your own, which is possible if you have the skills and expertise to accomplish your project.

But suppose you don’t have the time, and you want a well-constructed patio based on your envisioned design. In that case, we encourage you to get in touch with a professional contractor since they have experience and expertise with these types of projects.

When your house is situated on a steep hill, you are likely to have an unobstructed view of the stars, vistas, and surrounding landscape. However, the major problem with this setup is realised when you are building a driveway from the road to your house. In fact, the road should accommodate all types of commercial and personal vehicles.

Here are some things to consider when you are building a driveway on a very steep hill:

• Choose the right design

When your driveway is perpendicular to the road, you can quickly build a straight-line road to your house. However, if your house is situated on a steep hill, you may need to implement an S-shaped driveway design which is aesthetically pleasing and practical for most vehicles since this will allow them to climb the hilly road little effort. However, if you are constructing a driveway on a man-made ridge that is cut in the side of the hill, then having retaining walls is a must.

• Straight stretches and angles

To accommodate commercial and large vehicles, your driveway should have widths of between 10 and 12 feet, and the curves on the path must have a minimum of 14 feet wide. This means that the driveway must be navigable in all types of weather. Also, the turnaround space in the front portion of your house must be at least 12 by 18 feet to accommodate large delivery trucks, especially when unloading goods and turning around without damaging your lawn or any part of your property.

It’s a must to have a large turning area that will provide ample space for large vehicles to manoeuvre through your driveway.

• Gravel-covered driveways

It is essential to plan the design of a steep driveway, and you must also determine what surface to install. We recommend using gravel and concrete for the surface as it is cost effective, durable, and aesthetically pleasing. Most importantly, it provides good traction under all types of weather. However, you may need to build a stone or brick barrier in between the driveway and surrounding land to prevent the gravel from travelling to other areas of your landscape. It could even interfere with your lawn.

That is why you should get in touch with a contractor who knows how to mix gravel and concrete to get the best results for your driveway.
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• Hard surface drives

Concrete driveways will make your house look neat and finished and are likely to add value to your property (learn more here), but if your house is on a steep hill, it may be impassable during the winter months. Therefore, it is worth considering mixing stones and pebbles into the poured surface since this gives the driveway thread. 

Concrete is a mixture of gravel, cement, water, sand and various types of aggregates. It is widely used in many construction projects, and it is the most sought-after building material in the world. In fact, about 10 billion tons of concrete are produced each year. This means it is the most consumed substance worldwide, second only to water.

It is also the primary material for building bridges and skyscrapers, so it is the foundation of our infrastructure. Not to mention, 70% of the world’s population are known to live in concrete dwellings.

Concrete is one of the most durable building materials available today, so it’s used in structures like pipes, pavements, floor slabs, pillars and beams. However, the massive consumption of concrete around the globe has made it an active contributor to greenhouse gas emissions.

That is why there is a pressing need for the construction industry to go through a green revolution when it comes to using concrete and even timber - learn more here. Therefore, enterprises must now adapt to the current climate condition and the phenomena of global warming. They must now introduce environmental-friendly materials. Fortunately, the concrete sector has found some sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives to concrete, now known as green concrete.

What is green concrete?
Green concrete is a type of concrete that is manufactured using residual or waste materials from various industries. This makes it an eco-friendly alternative because it requires less energy to produce than traditional concrete. It’s also more cost-effective and is durable like standard concrete.

The main purpose of green concrete is to increase the dependency on recyclable materials and lessen the burden on natural resources. That is why the concreting industry is utilising multiple strategies to achieve sustainability through green concrete.
Some of these materials include the following:

AshCrete
This is a by-product of combustion from coal and commonly discarded in the landfill, but it now being used to manufacture green concrete. AshCrete and fly ash can be mixed with water and lime to produce a durable material, similar to conventional cement. These two materials can reduce CO2 emissions and 25% of cement can be replaced by using fly ash and AshCrete.
 
Blast Furnace Slag
Blast furnace slag is another by-product that can be recycled and used to make an environmentally friendly alternative to concrete. This material can be produced from molten iron slag that was quenched from the blast furnace and into steam or water.

Micro silica
This material is also called silica fumes and is an ultrafine powder by-product of ferrosilicon alloy. Micro silica is known to boost and improve the durability of concrete and makes it less absorbent, and it can also increase its compressive strength.

Overall, concreting technology will develop and improve more in the coming years, which could also boost green concrete production. We all want a better environment, and green concrete is a viable alternative to standard concrete.

Concrete is a popular building material used in various construction projects. It is known for its durability and is easy to maintain in comparison with other building materials such as timber. So, to extend the life of your concrete surfaces like those on your driveway, countertop, patio, and other concrete surfaces, it is essential to know the proper way of cleaning them.
There are several ways of cleaning concrete, but it all depends on the type of surface and the level of stain, dirt, and debris. Here are some tips that can help you effectively clean your concrete.
Pressure washer
If you want to clean your outdoor concrete, the best and easiest solution is to pressure wash it. In fact, it is the best method for removing dirt, stains, and other elements that made your concrete surface less stellar. It is recommended that you use a fan tip on your pressure washer, but it should not exceed 2,500 psi for optimal performance. You can also use hot water to break up dirt and debris on your concrete pavement.
Also, for tougher stains, especially on your driveway floors like grease, oil, and soot, it is better to use a degreaser before you pressure wash it. This will soften the stain on the surface, and you can then easily remove it using your pressure washer - making your concrete look clean and attractive.
Scrub brush
For indoor concrete, it is best to use a scrub brush because a pressure washer may not be the ideal equipment inside your home. You may also need to use hot water to soften up tough dirt, so you can easily remove it with the brush. Lastly, you can combine your scrub brush with a degreaser to remove harder dirt and stains.
Trisodium phosphate (TSP)
This is a heavy-duty cleaner that can easily remove dirt, soot, and grease on concrete surfaces. You can easily buy TSP at Home Depot and local hardware stores. It is a good companion for your pressure washer because it can provide better results than a standard degreaser.
Oxalic acid
If you want to remove rust and other stains on your concrete surface, you will need to use oxalic acid. This solution is often sold in local home improvement stores. It is usually sold in powdered form, so you will need to dissolve it in hot water.
Concrete Sealer
This compound is the most commonly used solution for protecting concrete from rust and stains. In fact, you can easily apply it to any concrete surface. Once it has cured on your concrete surface, it will now serve as a shield to protect your surface from dirt, debris, soot, and oil that may cause it to become weak or discoloured.
Overall, cleaning your concrete surface will ensure that it will stay pristine and look good for many years to come.

If you are planning to upgrade your backyard by building a porch or shed, laying a new driveway or concrete slab for a basketball court, it is important to prepare the ground before you pour the concrete. There are several factors to consider prior to pouring concrete, including checking if you have an uneven ground since this could likely break apart or sink in the long run and even cause significant cracks.

Pouring concrete is relatively straightforward but prepping the ground and framing the area can be quite daunting. So, depending on the type and size of the slab you want to create, the prep time will take five to seven hours, sometimes even longer. Therefore, it is essential that you plan and properly level your surface.

Here are our recommended steps for this task:

Step 1:
It is important to measure the area where you will pour the concrete, so you will need to dig to a depth of at least three to five inches. Also, you need to check if the soil beneath is mostly clay because this will require digging at least 2 inches more to hold the gravel and make way for the drainage. Finally, you can use spray paint to mark the area.
Step 2:
You may also need to dig a trench around the spot where the concrete will be poured. Make sure that it's 4 inches deep and 6 inches wide. This is commonly done to ensure that the concrete surface will be stronger and less likely to crack with time.
Step 3:
It is important to create a level surface. You can use the flat side of a rake to smooth the ground. Try filling the pits with dirt and always check accuracy by using a level measuring tool.
Step 4:
Another important thing to do is to tamp down the surface with a manual hand or machine tamper. This will pack the soil thoroughly and make the concrete less susceptible to cracks. You also have the option to add gravel on the surface and tamping it down to ensure that the ground is levelled correctly.
Step 5:
We recommend using stones at the base of the new slope because this will serve as added protection or low wall to prevent erosion or loose soil. Although you will need a professional for specialised projects like building a larger retaining wall for more safety and stability.
Step 7:
Most importantly, don't forget to place a level on several parts of the ground and always check they are levelled correctly. If you noticed that there are uneven spots, try to fill those parts with the removed dirt or gravel from other areas.

Overall, it's essential to do your research and determine if you need to reinforce the concrete. This will greatly depend on the requirements of your project. After following all of these steps, you have now created a great outdoor living space the whole family can enjoy!

Exposed aggregate concrete is often used in constructing driveways because it offers a unique look and feel. Therefore, homeowners in Canberra often use this material to upgrade and renovate their front and backyard landscape.
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Another reason it is one of the favourite concretes for landscaping is that it can produce totally unique and compelling designs. It is also more attractive than basic concrete and more durable than bricks. If you are looking at the costs, exposed aggregate is very cost effective.

Here are some notable benefits of exposed aggregate in any landscaping project:

• Tough and durable

Exposed aggregate is one of the most durable types of concrete material, and it can handle heavier traffic than bricks and pavers. It can also handle extreme weather, so you can expect it to perform well for many years. Therefore, if you use this material on your existing landscape, rest assured that it will retain its quality and look for many years. Not to mention that it is easier to maintain than other types of concrete material. If you seal it every 3-4 years, it will even last longer.

• Easy to customise

You can easily customise exposed aggregate and put additional materials on the surface. This will provide some amazing results. In fact, you can add crushed rocks, porcelain chips, seashells, polished rocks, marble, or sand – giving you several interesting textures to experiment from. So, depending on your taste and preferences, it can produce colourful and unique textures and patterns.

• Good traction

On top of being durable, exposed aggregate surfaces can also provide excellent traction. This is quite handy during rainy and colder months since vehicles will have more traction and the surface will be less slippery.

• An ideal solution for landscaping

Exposed aggregate concrete is stylish and is likely to grab your visitor’s attention. As the materials beneath are exposed, the surface will look more natural than plain brick or concrete. So, if you want to transform your driveway or any entertainment area in your backyard into something unique and stylish, you should consider using this type of concrete material.

However, you must hire professional installers and concreters that will help you realised your envisioned design. In fact, reliable concreters like Canberra Concreting can lay down and set up an exposed aggregate surface based on your specific preferences. They also have a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals who can provide you with the results you are looking for. No matter what design you choose for your property, they have the equipment and expertise to build it for you.

​If you ask any building contractor, they all tell you the same thing – concrete is an integral part of any construction project. Although you do not need to ask a professional to tell you that. Concrete has long been an essential ingredient in any building or structure.

Just look at the structures that surround you, like the pavements that you walk on or the patio in your backyard – concrete is everywhere. That is why we will explore the properties, materials, and uses of concrete and how you can use it for your projects.

What is concrete?
Concrete is the most widely used construction material and is created through a mix of various materials like cement, fine aggregate, water, gravel, and crushed stones. Gravel and sand or crushed stones are common examples of coarse or fine aggregate.

Why is it so important?
Concrete is known to be like mortars in both structure and composition. In fact, concrete becomes a binder for different types of masonry units in construction, which means it acts like mortar.

Although concrete has more uses than ordinary mortar and is more versatile as it contains both fine and coarse aggregates. The large coarse aggregate will provide strength attributes to concrete, a characteristic that mortars do not have. This makes concrete more suitable for heavier and larger structures.

Properties of concrete that make it great for construction projects
Many concrete companies will advertise the benefits of concrete and for good reasons. It offers several excellent attributes for structures and buildings. These include the following:

• Strength

Concrete is an extraordinarily strong material and can withstand the elements, including compressive stresses, without yielding. The strength will eventually come from various material components of the concrete mix. That is why it is essential to use a well-graded mix since it can produce the best results and makes it more suitable for constructing foundations, super structures, and other heavy structures.

• Durability

Using a well-graded mix, concrete can last for decades and even under very adverse conditions. In fact, it can resist weathering, chemical action, abrasion, and tensile stress for long periods without compromising its structural integrity. This makes a concrete structure more suitable for locations with rough conditions.

• Long-lasting

Experts have dated back the first instances of concrete to 500 BC, which means that it is incredibly durable. This makes concrete great for building permanent structures like dams and bridges, and it is also be the best option for domestic construction projects like driveways, walkways, patios, or entertainment areas on your property.

• Economical

Many concrete contractors in Canberra love concrete because it is affordable, and it does a great job in building works. In fact, it is so versatile that it cn be used for a variety of structures for both commercial and domestic applications.

Overall, the many properties of concrete have made it an essential material for the construction industry in Canberra. Using concrete can add value to your landscape, while also making it an attractive and comfortable place to live.

If you are planning to install or upgrade your driveway, you can contact Canberra Concreting today. We have a team of highly skilled and professional concreters that can help with your project.

Compared to wooden decks, bricks and paver stones, concrete patios are the clear winner in our opinion. In fact, concrete patio surfaces are more affordable, and you can choose from a wide variety of styles. Not to mention they are easy to maintain, durable and more easily repaired or resurfaced.
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Why choose a concrete patio surface?

• Versatility

Wooden decks may look stylish, but concrete is more versatile since you can mix it with other materials like crushed limestone and gravel. There are also various finishing techniques like stamping patterns which can mimic the look of bricks, stone, and tiles.
You can also choose sophisticated designs such as embossing or engraving patterns and logos into the concrete surface to emulate a variety of natural stones from marble to slate. This makes a concrete surface stylish but cost-effective.

• Initial cost

The initial cost of a typical concrete patio is far cheaper than a wooden deck, around half the price. However, design choices may increase the cost per square metre for both concrete and wooden patio surfaces.
Therefore, if you are planning to improve the value of your home, it is important to make a wise decision and ensure that you are maximising your return on investment. Choosing concrete is often a more logical choice because it can have a finish that compliments your home and can be an appropriate fit with your design and backyard landscaping, without the added expense.

• Longevity

There are several similarities in the maintenance process of both concrete surfaces and wooden patio decks. They both need to maintained properly to maximize their longevity and prevent any damage caused by ice, rain, heat, and cold.
Both surfaces must be scrubbed, sanded, and power washed until smooth before you can reseal them. If they are properly maintained, they can last up to 30 years. Although sealant application is far better and more straightforward for concrete compared to wooden decks.

In fact, concrete patios have a distinct maintenance advantage as sealant is only needed once every 3 to 5 years. Wooden decks must be re-stained and resealed annually, which means they will cost more time and money to maintain than a concrete surface. However, it is important to choose the right material for your landscape and design.

Why choose Canberra Concreting
We are the leading concreting company in Canberra, and we have a team of highly skilled and professional concreters that can help you upgrade or build a concrete patio. Combined with state-of-art equipment and our years of experience in this business, you can be sure that we can provide you the best quality service that you expect.

Most importantly, we are transparent when it comes to the total cost of your project. We can even guide you on which type of concrete or cement mix is suitable for your landscape. So, we urge you to get in touch with us today; our team will provide you a quote based on the design you want to achieve.

We want our homes to be safe from all types of accidents, but there will always be a slight risk of fire hazard. That is why we need to know some basic safety precautions to prevent fire accidents in our homes that could lead to costly damages or fatal injuries. There are ways to prevent fire, but many homeowners ignore this.

There are a few simple things you can do to protect yourself and your family from fire accidents, and these will include the following:

Fire tip #1
Home fires can happen at any moment, and it can cause serious dangers to anybody on your property. In fact, it only takes 5 minutes before the fire can engulf the whole house, so inhabitants will only have two minutes to escape. It is best to use a fire extinguisher or if you think it is out of control – get out of the house with your family as fast as you can.
You must also turn off any kitchen appliance after use or just cut the main power switch. Never leave your kids unattended in the kitchen, especially if you have flammable materials in your kitchen like paper towels, oven mitts, etc.

Fire tip #2
We recommend that you use concrete material in your kitchen, especially on the island or sink, since it does not burn, and it can retain its strength even in high temperatures. You may also want your roof treated with a fire retardant. If this is something you are interested in, you need to get in touch with a building contractor because they can provide you with some good options, especially when it comes to fire-retardant compounds.

If you are barbequing in your backyard, you should not use highly flammable materials like gasoline because it tends to blow up, and you might even catch fire to your clothes and skin. It is safer to use a dry kindling material than gasoline.

Using concrete in your construction projects

When building a patio in your backyard, it is best to use concrete since it is more versatile, safer than timber, and fire-proof. Concrete patios are cleaner, smoother, and can be cast to form various designs and geometric shapes, making them more stylish. You can even use concrete for outdoor furniture in your backyard because it’s more durable and a non-combustible alternative to timber or wood. In fact, there are several finishing options that can mimic wood or timber depending on your taste and the design you want to achieve.

Using concrete in some of your fixtures can minimise the risks of fire, and it is more affordable than other building materials. Most importantly, it is easy to maintain, so you can never go wrong if you choose it for your construction or renovation projects.
Overall, concrete is an excellent building material, but if you choose to use it on your projects, you should only deal with professional concreters like Canberra Concreting.

Slippery concrete is quite dangerous, and it can lead to unfortunate accidents. If there is a slippery surface in your home, it is important to take all the necessary precautions to avoid any slip accidents. This means you will need to make sure the slippery surface is protected from water and other elements to prevent it from becoming slippery. However, if this is not possible, there are some things you can do to make your concrete surface less slippery.

Here are some of our recommendations to transform your concrete surface to a non-slip area:

• Anti-slip sealer

If you don't want to change your surface's texture, you can try penetrative sealers. These can go through the pores and react to the surface underneath, making the surface less slippery and stronger from within.

• Water repellent sealer

You can also use a water repellent sealer, which reduces the water absorption of concrete surfaces by about 95%. This makes the surface resistant to frost, snow, rain, and other elements. It can prevent slip accidents, and it can also protect your concrete from wear and tear caused by weather elements.

• Non-slip additives

If the sealer you have used is not enough to prevent accidents in and around your home, you can also use non-slip additives, which you can easily purchase in your neighbourhood hardware store. These additives will often be available in two options, fine or course. Depending on how much traction you need, you can use either of the two for your surface.

• Silica sand

Another option available is silica sand which can be used as a second coat to your concrete sealer. This will instantly have a finish that makes your concrete not slippery. The sand may give your concrete sealant a rather milky or cloudy look, but that's just a small compromise compared to the consequences of a slip accident.

• Non-slip strips

Installing non-slip strips on your surface is the least aesthetically pleasing way to make your concrete less slippery, but it's one of the most effective methods to use. These stick-on, non-slip strips are available in any hardware store, and you can easily paste them on your concrete surfaces. This option is more applicable for outdoor surfaces such as concrete steps, driveway, and garage floors.

• Prime and paint

Another great option available to you is to prime and repaint your slippery concrete surface, but this time try mixing some grit additives into the paint to make it non-slippery. However, if you want to retain your surface's look, you should follow the recommended proportions of additives to the paint as instructed by the manufacturer of the brand you use.

Overall, there are several options to make your surface less slippery, adding functionality, style and value to your Canberra property. However, it would be wise to contact a professional concreting company since they can help you find the best option based on the type of concrete surface you have on your property.

Concrete has many benefits, but the most significant one is its durability, as well as the fact that it is easier to maintain than other construction materials. However, there are specific issues you will encounter in time, especially if you’re not maintaining it properly. Some of the concrete problems will include discolouration, scaling, shrinkage, cracking, other issues.
 
Here are some troubleshooting tips for many of these issues:

• Cracking

Concrete is a strong building material, but cracking is inevitable. Cracking is caused by various factors like thermal contraction, shrinkage, and subgrade settlement, and can be controlled if you act as soon as you see it. Although cracks are acceptable if they are not structural, not too wide, and do not leak water.
 
You can reduce cracking on your concrete surface if you remove the soft spots in the subgrade, organic material, and topsoil. You can also compact loose soil or install concrete joints through forming, tooling, and sawing a groove.
 
Another important thing to do to reduce cracking is to maximise the amount of course aggregate and avoid using retardant admixture because this can easily weaken your concrete so that it becomes prone to cracking.

• Discolouration

This issue often happens when contractors rushed the finishing operations of a concreting project as this will cause sudden and abrupt changes to the cement material. Also, the contractor may add calcium chloride to their mix, which can cause discolouration. But this can be prevented if the contractor uses the correct materials and batch from a ready-mix and they follow the ingredients based on industry standards.
To remedy discolouration, you need to prepare a uniform subgrade and wait until the water evaporates before finishing the process. This will prevent hard trowelling on the surface and ensure the colour is even throughout the concrete.

• Concrete Curling

This issue is often caused by the moisture and temperature of the bottom and top surface of the concrete, and it can lead to damage, especially in the base of the concrete. You can do several things to avoid this issue, like using the proper curling techniques and water-reducing admixtures.

It is essential to talk to your contractor and ensure that they are correctly bonding materials when applying thin topping mixes. They must also use the right amount of steel reinforcement on each concrete slab. Also, concrete must be placed on an absorptive sub-grade to ensure that water will not be pushed on the top of the slab.

• Scaling

Scaling often occurs when the concrete's surface breaks off and peels away, which can be caused by inadequate concrete strength or improper curing procedure. It is important not to use salt or other chemicals that may harm the structure of your concrete during the winter season. You may also want to consider concrete resurfacing if you are encountering a lot of scaling in your concrete.

• Crazing

This issue is considered to be one of the most repeated problems in concrete, and is often seen as an interconnected crack or when cement paste is pushed up to the surface and shrinks. To avoid crazing, you need to properly cure the concrete and don’t be tempted to rush the process. Wait till the water has evaporated before you do the finishing process. You can also sprinkle water over the concrete while finishing it to prevent any cracks and crazing.

Overall, choosing the right concrete for your intended application, maintaining it regularly and repairing it when issues arise, will ensure that you can enjoy your concrete surface for years to come. 

Your outdoor landscape is an important element of your home since it provides a space for entertainment and gatherings. In fact, it can even become the extension of your indoor space. The specifics of an outdoor landscape can be customised based on your envisioned design and lifestyle, but there is a broad category of concrete to choose from.
Here are some options we recommend:

Poured concrete
Poured concrete is the most popular option for an outdoor landscape because it comes in a wide variety of textures and colours, making it suitable for any type of surface. It’s also low maintenance and can be properly installed in any landscape. However, the costs for using concrete will significantly depend on the complexity of the finishing process.

You should also understand that concrete is an impermeable surface, which means water cannot pass through it. Instead, water runs off its surface, which may cause localised flooding.

Therefore, you must hire an experienced concreting service provider who can guide you with the right concrete mix, as they have the right tools to professionally lay concrete.

Stamped concrete
Stamped concrete or textured concrete is another great option since it can replicate stones, tiles, bricks, and even wood. There are a wide variety of patterns and colour choices – making stamped concrete popular for beautifying pool surrounds, driveways, patios, and more outdoor entertainment areas.

Additionally, stamped concrete is affordable since it requires less maintenance than other types of concrete.

Concrete pavers
Concrete pavers are available in various colours, shapes, sizes, and texture, and it can easily be placed on top of packed sand. It can also be butted together to get a smooth and unbroken surface. This type of method is suitable for hindering the growth of weeds between spaces.

However, if you like a more traditional look, then you can leave the spaces between the pavers and just fill it up with pebbles, pea gravel, or a tight, low-growing ground cover.

Outdoor Patterned Concrete
Patterned concrete is a revolutionary method in concreting since it incorporates colour and patterns to freshly poured concrete on patios, paths, and driveways. Using this method, you can re-create the looks of authentic materials like slate and stone.

It is also cost-effective since it requires minimal maintenance. Patterned concrete with dolomite as sub-case and four inches of fibre can reinforced its strength and eliminate any problems in the long run. Patterned concrete can survive the winter and rainy months – making it a fantastic alternative to wooden decking.

To learn more or organise your free quote, contact Canberra's best concreting contractors now. 

Wood is a popular material for many construction projects in Canberra because it is plentiful, durable, and can easily be cut based on the project's requirements. Timber also has several benefits like thermal elasticity, resistance to electrical charges, sound isolation, and it's easy to repair and maintain.

However, wood has several structural disadvantages, which can affect any type of construction. In fact, it's known to shrink, swell and deteriorate when exposed to various kinds of conditions like extreme temperatures. Wood is also known to produce biological diseases and fungi if they are not properly treated.

Not to mention that termites, insects, and moisture can also damage it. Fortunately, there are other alternatives in the market that you can use to mitigate these disadvantages.
 
Here are some of our alternative recommendations:
 

• Bamboo

 
Bamboo is considered a natural raw material, and it's more elastic than wood and it can significantly absorb energy, which means it's ideal for seismic-resistant construction for areas with frequent seismic activity. It's light and can easily be cut despite its strength.

• Wood composites

This construction material is manufactured using wood and plastic and is much stronger than conventional wood. It's also much cheaper, and with various designs available on the market, it doesn't need any finish. Wood composites are also immune to fire, heat, and stain, giving you another layer of protection for your home.

• Stone

Another popular and old building material is stone, which has been used to construct houses and castles during the Medieval Era. Stone is still used today because of its insulation properties and outstanding during the hot weather season. It's also durable and heavy and known to withstand any type of biological elements like fungi and mould.

• Concrete

When it comes to modern construction projects, we highly recommend concrete because it's ideal for concretes slabs, footings, and driveways. Concrete is also malleable, which means you can easily mould it to any shape. Most importantly, it can mimic timber but is more durable and comfortable to maintain.

So, if you are planning to upgrade or construct a new driveway or patio at your Canberra property, we recommend that you use concrete instead of wood. You will also need a reliable contractor who can help with your project. Our Concreting Services in Canberra can help you with any of your concrete needs. 

Adding outdoor living spaces can add zest and will expand the usable square footage of your property. It’s also an ideal way to enjoy your outdoor areas, which is beneficial for Canberra homeowners because it will make outdoor living possible throughout the year. Once you have your new patio surface installed by professional concreters in Canberra, you can decide on accessories ideal for your needs and desires.

One good example is adding an outdoor kitchen and dining areas to your patio so it can be used as a venue for morning coffee and other outdoor activities like family barbecues. You can go much farther by creating ingenious living space that will transform your patio into something that will amaze your guests.

The benefits of outdoor kitchens
It is now possible to create outdoor kitchens and built-in grills, a growing trend in 2021. For a unique feel, you can even add features to your outdoor kitchen like outdoor rugs, flat screen televisions, cocktail tables, and outdoor chairs.

There are many benefits of outdoor kitchens but the most significant one is that it adds ambiance and style to your aging patio. There are a wide range of simple features you can add to your patio and outdoor kitchen that would impress a full-time chef. Constructing these new elements in your backyard will surely add value to your property.

Cooking outdoors is fun
The easiest and most ideal way of keeping your house tidy is to go out in your backyard and cook in your outdoor kitchen. You can even install a built-in grill in your patio and customised it to complement all your cooking needs. You can add drawers, burners, and other essential accessories to make your cooking more convenient.

If you are someone who loves pizza then you can install and add an outdoor pizza oven, which could have ceramic or flat brick surface. These ovens are operated by burning wood and the heat generated cooks the pizza. Outdoor ovens can also bake tender pizzas with bubbly crusts that are perfectly crisp.

Another excellent idea is to install a modular outdoor kitchen in your patio, which is created solely by concrete to make it more cost-effective and maintenance-free.

Finishing touches
To make your out space even more beautiful, you can introduce some finishing touches like installing cylinders that can hold your plants, painting splashes of vibrant colours, elegant curvy urns that can add an inviting ambiance that your guests will surely love. You can even plant ornamental grass that will wave in the breeze – giving your outdoor area a more relaxing and comfortable feel.

Lastly, you can put outdoor rugs on your patio and some furniture to add some living room feels even while in your outdoor area.

Overall, it is possible to make your outdoor area into a functional and more enjoyable space, and you don’t need to break your bank to achieve it.