Robertson's Ready Mix

How do I know how much concrete to order?

When you have measured the length and distance of the area you are interested in pouring, call our dispatch center and they will provide an exact measurement for your project.

What strength concrete do I need?

We recommend referencing job site permits, checking city ordinances or checking with your contractor for strength requirements.

Why does concrete crack?

The wet concrete will have a loss of volume as the concrete "sets" and continues to harden. This loss of volume occurs as shrinkage. That sets up tensile stresses causing cracks in concrete. Concrete cracking can be controlled but almost never eliminated.

How do I control cracking?

Concrete needs to be jointed to account for the shrinkage that will occur. Joint placement is determined by the thickness of the concrete.

Will my concrete be stronger if I use wire mesh/Fibermesh reinforcing?

No. Mesh reinforcing does nothing to make the concrete stronger. The mesh reinforcing will keep cracks from opening up once a crack has occurred.

What kind of reinforcement should I use in my concrete?

Much of that depends on what the concrete is being used for. In most cases, Fibermesh is an excellent no-hassle solution to providing additional strength. We also suggest using rebar or wire depending on the use.

What is the purpose of the Fibermesh?

Intermixing millions of synthetic fibers into a cubic yard of concrete is meant to reduce or absorb micro-cracking that takes place when concrete begins to "set." If micro-cracking is reduced or eliminated in the first few hours after placement, cracking may never take place.

What does it mean to cure concrete?

Curing is one of the most important steps in quality concrete construction and one of the most neglected. Effective curing is absolutely essential for surface durability. Fresh concrete must be kept warm and moist until the mixing water combines chemically with the cement (hydration). Without curing, the strength of the concrete is basically reduced in half. A 4000 PSI mix becomes a 2000 PSI mix at the surface with no curing.

Why should I cure concrete?

It is important to cure concrete to retain as much moisture as possible in the concrete for the first three to seven days of its life. Curing also helps to maintain concrete temperatures between 50 and 90 degrees, which is helpful in the concrete gaining maximum strength. Curing is usually done by applying a coat of liquid curing compound to the concrete as soon as it is hard enough to walk on without making marks on the surface.

Can concrete be made in colors other than normal gray?

The possibilities are almost as limitless as your imagination! From an intermixing of multiple colors to matching the siding on your house, there's sure to be a color you'll like! Call or contact us for pricing and you can check colors out here at daviscolors.com.

How do you find a good contractor?

First of all, don't pick a contractor entirely on the basis of cost. In concrete work, as in any business, you get what you pay for. Cost should be a consideration, but it should not be the only consideration. Knowledge, competence, integrity and experience are the qualities to seek in a contractor. To obtain the names of qualified contractors talk to the dispatchers or friends and family. Then take a look at a few of the contractors' completed jobs, particularly some which were done several years ago. If you like what you see, you can feel easier about seeking bids from them, knowing that they do good quality work.

What performance should you expect from concrete placed around your home?

Good quality concrete-properly proportioned, mixed, placed, finished and cured-will give maintenance-free service for many years. Concrete work, properly done, will usually last much longer than the need for which it was originally installed.

FAQ