Tj Greenfield & Justin Cline
Batch Office: 1-580-363-2000
Main Office: 1-580-363-2010
Fax: 1-580-363-0658
Address:
500 North 20th Blackwell, Oklahoma, 74631
E-mail: office@gcconcreteco.com
Concrete FAQ's
Q. What is the difference between cement and concrete?
A. The terms "cement", "concrete" and "mortar" are used
almost interchangeably by the layman in conversations about cement
mixing. However, the terms refer to substances that have three
distinct purpose:
| Cement : | The binding element in both concrete and mortar. |
| Concrete : | A product composed of cement, sand and gravel or other coarse aggregate. When water is mixed in with this product, it activates the cement, which is the element responsible for binding the mix together to form one solid object. |
| Mortar: | A product composed of cement and sand. When water is mixed in with this product, the cement is activated. Whereas concrete can stand alone, mortar is used to hold together bricks, stones or other such components. |
| Cement mixing: | Cement mixing, therefore, properly speaking, refers to using cement in the mixing of mortar or concrete. |
Q. How many square feet will one cubic yard of concrete surface?
A. Check out our Concrete Calculator.
Q. How long should I wait before I put traffic on my new driveway or my new
walk?
A. A general rule of thumb is that in moderate to warm weather, a
minimum of one week is required before the concrete is opened to vehicular
traffic. Pedestrian traffic may be allowed in 24-48 hrs, but that again is
weather dependent. Use of a faster setting mix, or one richer in cement for a
higher early strength, may allow quicker access. Ask for an estimation of when to allow traffic based on the conditions when
the concrete is placed.
Q. Is fresh concrete hazardous to be around in any way?
A. Cement comprises 7-15% of total concrete volume. As an alkaline
material, wet cement is caustic and can cause severe chemical burns to exposed
skin and eyes. Thus, working with fresh concrete presents an obvious risk.
That's why it's so important to always wear water-proof gloves, a long-sleeved
shirt, full-length trousers and proper eye protection. If you have to stand in
wet concrete, use water-proof boots that are high enough to keep concrete from
flowing into them. Wash wet concrete, mortar, cement, or cement mixtures from
your skin immediately. Flush eyes with clean water immediately after contact.
Indirect contact through clothing can be as serious as direct contact, so
promptly rinse out wet concrete, mortar, cement or cement mixtures from
clothing. Always seek immediate medical attention if you have persistent or
severe discomfort.
In addition to the caustic nature of cement, 95% of cement particles are smaller than 45 µm.--compared to tobacco smoke of approximately 3 µm--suggesting that the danger of inhalation is possible. Workers opening bags or sacks of cement and cement products should always wear a dust mask in addition to their regular safety attire.
Q. What will I need to know to order concrete?
A. Our dispatch will want to know what mix design is required, how
you intend to place it on the jobsite, the delivery address and time,
approximately how long you will hold the truck, and any special instructions
that are pertinent to your job (i.e.: Do you need expansion joint?, Does the
concrete require Fibermesh?, Will this be colored concrete?, Will this be a
C.O.D. order?, Do you have an account? (Download a Credit
Application here) )
Q. I saw them pour concrete on television......can I do it myself?
A. While we don't discourage homeowners from attempting their own
concrete placement, bear in mind that concrete is, by nature, permanent. Heavy
labor, considerable skill, and specialized tools are required to achieve a
favorable result. Most times it is better to consult with a trained, reputable
Concrete Contractor.
Q. Where can I find information concerning concrete mixes, concrete placement,
concrete finishing, etc.?
A. See our Links page
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