Why Is A Strong Concrete Base Important In Central Texas?
Why Is A Strong Concrete Base Important In Central Texas?
Concrete is a strong material that can last for decades with proper care. While many assume that concrete is strong enough to withstand anything, it’s the sub-base below you should thank for a paved surface’s resilience. A great concrete base plays a vital role in concrete paving and flatwork, providing a long-lasting foundation to support finished surfaces.
Here’s what you need to know.
What is a Concrete Base?
In concrete construction, a Central Texas base refers to the material that sits between the soil and the concrete slab above. Many refer to it as a sub-base, and it plays an important role in any concrete construction project. Whether you’re installing a concrete shed foundation or preparing for flatwork pathways, you need a strong base.
A concrete base in Texas typically contains a mix of aggregate, such as crushed stone or gravel. Teams lay the loose material over graded soil. Then, they compact it to compress the material and achieve proper strength.
What Purpose Does a Reinforced Base Serve?
There are two main reasons you want a Central Texas concrete base. The first is to provide proper strength. Sub-base material helps to distribute the load of your reinforced concrete base evenly. Without it, pressure could collect in one area. That would lead to cracking and eventual failure. If you’re constructing a concrete shed foundation or sidewalk, pressure points can result in serious structural integrity issues.
The second reason for having base is to ensure proper drainage. Water can easily collect underneath concrete, leading to early deterioration and damage. The sub-base prevents that by allowing water to flow through.
What Types of Base Material are Available?
Contractors can use various materials to construct a strong concrete base in Texas. The most common materials include gravel and crushed stone. These materials offer superior strength when compacted. However, they still have small air gaps that allow water to flow through for drainage.
Some projects may call for sand. While rarer than crushed stone or gravel, sand can benefit smaller projects with a higher water table.
How Do Contractors Install Concrete Base in Texas?
The process for installing a base is simple. Contractors start by excavating and preparing the site. If the soil needs adjustments or improvements, contractors will take care of those logistics before laying the Central Texas base.
After proper grading for elevation and drainage, teams will fill the area with sub-base material. Compaction with heavy-duty equipment follows, ensuring maximum strength and durability.
From there, contractors can lay a damp-proof membrane before pouring concrete as they normally would. The process is simple, but it’s important. Seasoned contractors will employ trusted techniques when doing concrete shed foundations, sidewalks and other concrete projects.
When you need a strong concrete base in Texas, Junior’s Materials is here to help. We’re a full-service excavation and hauling company that proudly serves property owners and developers in Austin. We pride ourselves on offering top-notch customer service, reliability and the best materials you can source.
We’re available for decomposed granite delivery, landscaping material delivery, grading, road base driveways, skid steer operation and more.
Call the Junior’s Materials team at (512)924-6887 for a free quote. You can also use our online contact form or email us at juniorsmaterials2@gmail.com.