A Science set in Concrete

LEFT: Harsh weather and poor concrete are a recipe for disaster.
RIGHT: A quality driveway built to last by Sam Evans General Construction.

Due to Utah's climate and the damaging effects of our freeze-thaw cycles, laying concrete in this area requires special diligence to the science of concrete. Thanks to Sam's background in chemistry, concrete technology, and our extensive experience, you can be confident that, with the proper care, our work will endure years of Utah's harsh climate.

Concrete gains its strength through a chemical process called hydration. A specific amount of water reacts chemically with the cement in the concrete while it cures to make it hard. The mix is engineered with that particular water ratio and only a certain amount more to allow the mixture to be poured, leveled, and finished. Concrete is porous and allows water in, which then freezes and expands. This expansion creates sheer stress under the surface and may cause the surface of the concrete to crack and spall. In addition to cement, water, aggregates, and other additives such as fiber mesh, tiny air bubbles are introduced by adding an air-entraining agent. These air bubbles add to the durability of the concrete because they absorb the stresses of expansion. As with all the ingredients in concrete, the air entrainment must be within a specific range in order to be most effective.

Many concrete finishers add water to their mix to make it easier to pour and finish. Diluting the mixture weakens the finished product. We do not dilute!

To make mixtures more workable - easier to pour and finish - it is standard practice for many other concrete finishers to add water when the truck arrives on site. However, doing so will dilute the mixture to less than its designed strength by changing the proper ratio of ingredients. The six-bag engineered (4000 psi) concrete, which we most commonly use for exterior pours, is designed with a specific ratio of air entrainment and should be poured at a 4-inch slump. We pour exterior concrete at a 4-inch slump. We don't wet it up!

In addition to our deep understanding of the proper mix designs, according to the conditions the concrete is poured under and its intended use over time, we are very knowledgeable in every aspect of the entire process. Proper surface preparation, form setting, pouring, leveling, floating, joint placement and finishing techniques are every bit as vital in the production process. With Sam Evans General Construction, Inc., you can be confident you will receive a superior product in both structure and appearance.