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Continued from: < Obsolete Link > Michelle Moran “Need help evaluating concrete bids on drive and slab” 5/28/01 3:51pm
Thanks very much for the input. It has been informative and helpful in understanding some of the basic principles behind the different concrete construction techniques. I think I understand the pros and cons of fiber mesh, wire mesh, frost walls, bag mix/psi strength and base preparation
Now for the things I’m still not clear on: How is psi calculated? Is it related only to bag mix or does it include other factors? Also, I understand that rebar is used for reinforcement, but is it always needed? Does it prevent damage from cracking or heaving, or merely minimize such damage if cracks begin? Does using rebar significantly increase the cost of the job?
And one last question: even among knowledgeable concrete people, opinions seem to vary quite a bit as to what is essential or what is best in construction techniques. Is that because laying concrete is as much of an art as a science, where different contractors can get good results using a variety of techniques, or is there really a “right” way to do the job where, given a particular set of soil conditions, location, etc., any good contractor would agree on the same construction parameters?
Thanks again for all of the help.
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Continued from: < Obsolete Link > Michelle Moran "Need help evaluating concrete bids on drive and slab" 5/28/01 3:51pm
Thanks very much for the input. It has been informative and helpful in understanding some of the basic principles behind the different concrete construction techniques. I think I understand the pros and cons of fiber mesh, wire mesh, frost walls, bag mix/psi strength and base preparation
Now for the things I'm still not clear on: How is psi calculated? Is it related only to bag mix or does it include other factors? Also, I understand that rebar is used for reinforcement, but is it always needed? Does it prevent damage from cracking or heaving, or merely minimize such damage if cracks begin? Does using rebar significantly increase the cost of the job?
And one last question: even among knowledgeable concrete people, opinions seem to vary quite a bit as to what is essential or what is best in construction techniques. Is that because laying concrete is as much of an art as a science, where different contractors can get good results using a variety of techniques, or is there really a "right" way to do the job where, given a particular set of soil conditions, location, etc., any good contractor would agree on the same construction parameters?
Thanks again for all of the help.