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MPA | Expansion Joints | Stamped Concrete
Things to know about concrete – Concrete is strong and durable when it is properly installed. It is also a versatile material that has many uses.
The strength of concrete used by Solocrete is 32 MPA. It is important to note that it is reinforced with steel and wire mesh. This is to ensure its durability, especially with the effects of weather on it.
To ensure the highest quality standard; Solocrete uses a higher than recommended strength of concrete (4 to 6 inches in depth) on top of gravel base (4 to 6 inches in depth). Expansion joints are also used to join one new surface to an existing surface.
Frequently Asked Questions
Understand the work involved.
The rise in popularity of stamped concrete may be attributed to three key factors. Firstly, the evolution of stamping tools, the development of a wide variety of colours and customer awareness. There are three basic types of systems to produce stamped concrete. The stamping mat forms create a textured surface. This aids in a non slip surface. When the stamping mats are used to create the impression, a release agent is applied to prevent the concrete from sticking to the stamp form and to enhance colour ascent.
Stamped concrete is a two week process involving the following steps: Excavation, framing, add gravel and wire mesh/steel as needed, pouring concrete, adding colour agent and release agent, stamping concrete, parging, power washing and final step is sealing the concrete. All of these steps are weather dependent.
Aggregate concrete has gained popularity especially for outdoor driveways, walkways and patios. The top finish of aggregate concrete exposes random small stones and pebbles creating a coarser surface making it skid resistant. This type of concrete maintains its durability and strength.
Aggregate concrete contrasts beautifully with white concrete and stamp concrete. Aggregate concrete is a two week process involving the following steps: excavation, framing, add gravel and wire mesh/steel as needed, pouring of concrete, power wash to expose the small stones and the final step is sealing of the concrete. All of these steps are weather dependant.
White concrete requires no maintenance. It basically is white in colour and gradually it will become gray.
During the winter months it is very important to remember to never use salt or ice melters on concrete. Do not use a product, even if the label states, “safe to use on concrete”. Our experience has shown that using sand and a plastic shovel (not steel) after a snowfall is the best treatment. Never leave snow or ice to accumulate on the concrete because this can cause damage to the concrete such as pitting.
NOTE: Pitted concrete CANNOT be repaired.
As part of the Purchaser’s maintenance, Stamped and Aggregate concrete requires you to have it sealed periodically depending on how high a traffic area it is. During the winter months it is very important to remember to never use salt or ice melters on concrete.
Do not use a product, even if the label states, “safe to use on concrete”. Our experience has shown that using sand and a plastic shovel (not steel) after a snowfall is the best treatment. Never leave snow or ice to accumulate on the concrete because this can cause damage to the concrete such as pitting.
NOTE: Pitted concrete CANNOT be repaired.
Solocrete looks forward to continuing its reputation and success in the field of architectural concrete finishes for many years to come. Let us add an appeal to your property.