Book 2

Concrete steps are preferred by many builders because of their strength and versatility. There are two basic forms of steps: solid fill base, in which the steps are earth supported, and open, in which the steps are suspended with support at the top and bottom. A third type is precast which is poured and cured at a plant and then […]

There is much more to finishing concrete floors than just leaving the finish as specified. How the concrete is poured, consolidated, and allowed to begin hardening before troweling has a direct effect on strength and durability. In this unit you will learn the proper techniques for finishing large slabs with both floats, hand trowels, and troweling machines. Read Book

For the cement mason, sidewalks and patios can be one of the most gratifying areas of the trade. Usually the cement mason is responsible for the entire product, from the elevations, set up, subgrade, and ordering materials, as well as the placing and finishing of the concrete.  At times the cement mason is also given the responsibility

A number of factors must be considered when planning where to place joints in a slab, such as the size of the slab, the location of rigid objects, and the slab thickness. You must also decide if the joints will be made as the concrete is placed or cut after the concrete has cured. In this unit you will

Concrete paving is sometimes considered a specialty among the many other concrete occupations. However, it is important to remember that all of the skills you’ve learned so far will be used. Floating, edging, and surface preparation are all parts of paving roads, highways, and interstates. Read Book 2 / Unit 9 Review “Words You Should Know”  Watch the videos

Concrete is cured by ensuring that proper moisture and temperature conditions are maintained while the concrete gains strength, usually for around seven days. Improperly cured concrete will never gain its entire strength and improper curing can affect durability and resistance to wear. Weather extremes are one of the main hazards to making sure concrete cures properly. Hot, windy conditions can cause