Bricks, Masonry, Asphalt and Concrete - new cement driveway
Doityourself.com community forum was created to provide answers to all questions related to home improvement and home repair. Doityourself community can help you find information about how-to topics on small fixes to large remodeling projects. With comprehensive how-to content and expertly moderated community forums DoItYourself.com makes it easy to tackle even the most complex home improvement projects.View Full Version : new cement driveway
dont know
02-25-07, 08:07 AM
hello i am having my driveways redone. the contractor has written in the contract, wire mesh or fiber.if i have a choice, which is better. live near chicago with very cold winters. does 5 inches thick sound right @ 6 bags thanks joe
Concretemasonry
02-25-07, 05:08 PM
If it was me, I would use both. If only one choice, I would use the wire mesh.
Make sure the contractor either saws or forms control joints properly to control cracks. Saw the joints early (same or next day) and caulk when practical.
Forget about the bag content of the concrete mix. Cement content is secondary to the right mix design. Demand air entrained concrete with a compressive strenght of at least 4000 psi. Some suppliers in our area will not supply/guarantee less than 4500 psi concrete for driveways (little cost difference in a job).
Dick
Make sure the contractor either saws or forms control joints properly to control cracks. Saw the joints early (same or next day) and caulk when practical.
Forget about the bag content of the concrete mix. Cement content is secondary to the right mix design. Demand air entrained concrete with a compressive strenght of at least 4000 psi. Some suppliers in our area will not supply/guarantee less than 4500 psi concrete for driveways (little cost difference in a job).
Dick
dont know
02-26-07, 10:29 AM
thanks for your help. i will check with our contractor. joe