Guide to Concrete

Learn the many uses, applications and benefits of concrete products

By Selena Chavis, Owner, SC Communications, LLC

1. Concrete basics, such as ready mixed concrete.
2. The benefits of using insulating concrete forms.
3. How to locate a concrete contractor.
4. Best practices for maintaining concrete products.

Action Steps
The best contacts and resources to help you get it done

Get the basics: ready mixed concrete

By far, the most common type of concrete used in construction is ready mixed concrete. Ready mixed concrete is delivered in a freshly mixed, unhardened state.

I recommend: Suppliers of ready mixed concrete include Standard Concrete Products Ltd. For more vendors, check the ready mixed concrete directory at Business.com.

Options for concrete products

From high strength concrete products and insulating concrete forms used in high-rise buildings and other major construction projects to architectural design and masonry, a wealth of concrete products are available for your construction projects.

I recommend: The ConcreteNetwork.com matches you with suppliers of a vast selection of concrete products.  Find suppliers of Portland cement, the basic ingredient of concrete, at the Portland Cement Association (PCA), where you can also find a wealth of resources on the wide variety of concrete products available. For insulating concrete forms, visit the Insulating Concrete Form Association (ICFA), which provides ample listings of distributors of concrete forms.

Hire a concrete contractor

For major construction projects, a concrete contractor is a necessity. For smaller projects, such as pouring concrete floors, concrete driveways or other concrete products, a concrete contractor may still prove beneficial.

I recommend: To locate a concrete contractor, visit ConcreteNetwork.com, which offers listings depending on the type of concrete contractor you need for your project as well as tips on hiring contractors and checking licensing requirements. You can also get matched to a pre-screened concrete contractor at ImproveNet's 1-800Contractor.com.

Maintain concrete products for added longevity

While concrete products, such as concrete floors are durable and long lasting, proper maintenance will greatly enhance the life and beauty of concrete products. With plain concrete, it can mean the difference between a clean, bright look and a grimy, dull appearance. Consider that exterior concrete can be subject to the harshest of weather conditions.

I recommend: Find a number of maintenance and cleaning products for concrete products at Lowe's. Duckback Products also carries a number of concrete cleaners and sealers.

Helpful advice for making the most of this Guide

• •  Order 5 to 10 percent more ready mixed concrete than estimated requirements to make up for possible spills or waste.
• •  Choose a reputable and licensed concrete contractor.
• •  Regular maintenance and cleaning of concrete products will enhance its life and beauty.