This durable building material is used by the concrete contractors San Jose to pour patios, driveways, porches and stairs. Its endurance over time is proven by the buildings that stand today that were constructed long ago when the Roman Empire was in power.
Following the demise of the Roman Empire, its use as a building material faded into obscurity. Then, in the eighteenth century the technology came into use once again. The modern version is poured into forms after being mixed. For structures requiring strength, such as bridges and skyscrapers, it is reinforced with steel or rebar.
Often the words concrete and cement are thought to be interchangeable. However, cement is one of the components used to make the composite concrete. Other components are aggregates such as gravel or small pebbles and sand. Various proportions of these are used. Some structures require more strength and that is taken into consideration.
Their are famous dams and bridges that were built using this enduring material. It is popular for building foundations, bridges, highways and airport runways.
Color is added to the mix for decorative applications. Stamping, staining and polishing also add a decorative touch. Special molds can be used to make fountains, birdbaths and statues. It can be polished to look like the mirror finish found on marble.
The building material now generally known as Portland cement was created and patented in 1824 by Joseph Aspdin. Reinforced concrete, containing blood to allow it to resist frost, was invented by Joseph Monier in 1849.
Just as the ingredients in a chocolate cake vary from those in a fudge cake, different proportions of cement, aggregate, sand and water are used to make the mix for different building projects. Possible aggregates are gravel, crushed limestone or pebbles. A minimal amount of sand is added.
After the water is added and prior to the pour, steel or rebar may be laid in place to provide extra reinforcement. This is vital when constructing bridges, viaducts or other weight bearing projects. Other examples are dams, skyscrapers and parking structures.
In addition to water, chemicals may be added. This is done to either speed up or slow down the rate at which the mixture hardens. A skilled contractor is able to judge the optimal proportions of all additives that are appropriately used to build each type of structure.
Cold climate building projects must consider the expanding and contracting that will occur due to weather changes. This is not necessary in a warm climate. However, saw cuts will still be made in flat applications because they allow for some movement without damage occurring. In case of rain, hardening projects must be covered for protection.
Concrete contractors San Jose will be proficient at using the correct mix when pouring driveways, patios, garden paths, porches and stairs as well as interior floors, which are popular for recreation rooms and entry halls. He is knowledgeable as to the correct proportions. The customer will be advised as to what is the optimal mix for each project.
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