How to Strengthen Raveling Concrete

Raveling concrete prevents your project from looking neat and professional. Prevention is key to avoiding the aggregate coming loose from the structure. Proper preparation enables the concrete to strengthen adequately. It is vital that you read the directions on the particular concrete mix you are using. Adequate curing time and inadequate surface compaction are other causes of raveling.

Concrete vibration tools
Soaking hoses, sprinklers or other hydration methods

Instructions

- 1
  Mix the concrete according to directions. Follow all the helpful suggestions pertaining to the design of your project.
- 2
  Fill the concrete forms adequately. This reduces pockets of loosely joined aggregate.
- 3
  Release air bubbles trapped in the concrete by using proper vibration for the particular job. This prevents the air pockets from surfacing later and causing raveling.
- 4
  Provide moisture. Wait the appropriate time for the concrete to cure completely. Attempting to speed the process results in raveling. Read the directions on the concrete carefully to determine the proper hydration time. Typically, this is five to seven days during which the surface of the concrete receives moisture via soaking hoses, sprinklers or other methods. Curing time is particularly important when attempting to cut a construction joint. If raveling occurs, stop the cutting immediately and wait for the concrete to strengthen once it cures completely.

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