http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com en-us http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com N/A allan@ebookresellerkit.com Thu, 11 Mar 2010 19:28:35 EST 20 http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2355/1/Concrete-Form-Setting Concrete which is a mixture of cement, gravel, sand, water and other additives is used in poured or block format in construction. Poured concrete walls and other constructions such as steps, require forms to be built or set into which the mixed concrete is poured. The forms are made from different materials depending upon the kind of construction. Carol Smithson Tue, 01 Aug 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2354/1/Concrete-home Concrete is a composite material used commonly in building construction. It consists of a combination of an aggregate and a cement binder. Most commonly, cement is made of Portland cement, mineral aggregates and water. Concrete is actually the most widely used man-made material. Concrete has high compressive strength, but comparatively lower tensile strength. Concrete can be reinforced with steel or fibre. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2338/1/Precast-concrete Pre-casting concrete is an ancient concept. However with the development in the technology of construction, the technique developed for precast concrete is fairly modern, since it never existed before the 20th century. This is a technique where the concrete is put into structural containers before it is actually brought on the site. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2337/1/Decorative-concrete Today we are looking for new and better ways of making our homes beautiful and stylish. Gone are the days when homes were designed on a common blue print. With interior designing catching up the 'living area' whether it be home or offices are sure looking for new and innovate ways for being different and stylish. An important new trend in this process is that of 'decorative concrete' Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2336/1/Concrete-stamp Stamped concrete is the process of adding texture and this gives lusture to the floor. Colored concrete makes it resembles to natural stone, wood, etc. The unlimited range of potential combined with great durability and lower cost than any other natural product. The cracking on the floors that is visible while in cases of wet floor but these acts as a floor-covering product. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2335/1/Concrete-pavers Today one cannot help but look into the very basic grounds for beautification of cities.  Pavements play a vital role in making the roads and streets look attractive. Concrete pavers are a latest trend. Because of the eye catching exterior and the easy installation, they are in great demand. And luckily there are available in a variety of styles however since they are manufactured and supplied on regional basis, all the types are not available everywhere. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2334/1/Concrete-Paint Concrete painting was thought of as a passing fad when it first came up but this industry is now booming like never before. Concrete painting is becoming hugely popular due to the great look that it provides and hence it is the fastest developing segment of the entire concrete industry and therefore one of the most profitable of them all. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2333/1/Concrete-forms Intricate jobs become simple after using the concrete products. It is because every concrete product is ready for immediate positioning into the quarry. Effort goes on quickly because one can work from one point to another,and the forms allow one to set from both inside and outside walls at the same time.Insertion of the ties into the notches will hold the panels straight, and keep them steadily together. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2332/1/Concrete-floor There are a lot of elements to consider while installing the floor by giving a proper coating on it. If the expense of concrete is considered, its tendency to crack if inappropriately installed and the complexity and expense of replacing a poor performance of the job, it is to be encouraged strongly when it is needed to hire a capable concrete contractor to install it. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2331/1/Concrete-Angle Concrete panels or large concrete surfaces may require support in the form of concrete angles. When the entire structure is made of concrete, using angles made from other materials may not be a designer's choice of work. Concrete angles are made from steel reinforced precast concrete with added additives for providing the extra strength and durability required. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2330/1/Concrete-resurfacing Well, so your floor is damaged. Smile, you now have the opportunity of using concrete resurfacing to repair the damage and give a new look to your patio, your room or any other surface that will lead your friends to gasp with surprise and admiration. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2309/1/Concrete-Wall A house or for that matter, any construction is incomplete without walls. Walls are mainly used to create living spaces and at the same time distinguish between different areas meant for particular use in a house or office. Walls separate the living room from the kitchen and the bedroom. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2308/1/Concrete-Tool Concrete tools are used in construction activity for placing, spreading and finishing the concrete. Each activity requires a different concrete tool for best results. Most concrete contractors are equipped with such tools that are handled manually and do not require any electricity or battery to charge them. Smaller equipments or tools can also be purchased from most home improvement supply stores. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2307/1/Concrete-Table A public park, outdoor restaurant and schools are incomplete without the presence of concrete tables. Those strong and decorative structures meant for rough use throughout the year are known to add volumes to the beauty of the landscape while serving the purpose of accommodating picnics, get-togethers or simply youngsters in school at their lunch or play. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2306/1/Concrete-Steps Concrete steps are built using concrete mix and a few other simple tools. This can also be an easy do-it-yourself kind of project. Concrete steps are durable and attractive and blend easily with the surrounding landscape. The concrete mix can be purchased from any concrete supplier in ready condition or can be prepared at the site of construction. Concrete steps are constructed with the help of wooden forms. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2305/1/Concrete-Statue Landscape designers and architects have always favored using concrete statues to enhance the look and beauty of a lawn or landscape garden. A variety of concrete statues are available with statuary suppliers who precast concrete into molds to get the desired shape and size and then use stains or paints to get the color of choice. Custom made statues are also possible if the order is large or unique. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2304/1/Concrete-Saw Controlled cutting or sawing of concrete is done with the help of special equipment such as concrete saws which are equipped with diamond impregnated blades to ensure high quality cuts and also no more damage to the existing concrete. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2303/1/Concrete-Removal Concrete removal is required when the concrete surfaces are beyond repair or patching. Trying to fix concrete that is beyond repair will only result in loss of time and money and will make the final décor look dirty and shoddy. Concrete removal may be carried out for a number of reasons. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2302/1/Concrete-Planter Concrete planters are simply what one would call as giant flower pots. These planters are meant for holding plants just like normal flower pots. But they are also designed with another important aspect in mind, that of providing security to the building or home whose entrance they are placed. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2301/1/Concrete-Coating Concrete is used for a wide variety of purposes in building construction. Concrete is a mixture of different substances such as cement, gravel, sand and other aggregates along with water. This water may evaporate from the mixture leaving behind gaps and voids that can cause the concrete to weaken. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2300/1/Concrete-Bench Concrete is used not just in the construction of residential and commercial structures but also in adding to the aesthetic beauty of the outdoors including patios, gardens, parks and picnic areas, restaurants, etc. Concrete is a long lasting material made from a proportionate mixture of cement, gravel and sand and including other additives for specific uses. Concrete benches are also made using concrete. Most of the concrete benches are precast and only need to be assembled at the site. Carol Smithson Mon, 31 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2284/1/Pouring-a-concrete-pad It is generally observed that high traffic areas in the exterior of a house may become bare and muddy due to constant use. It is not possible to grow grass at such spots. What is possible is to pour a concrete pad to stop the mud and make it look more decorative than before. Carol Smithson Sat, 29 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2283/1/Insulated-Concrete-Form A concrete wall that is formed by using stay-in-place concrete forms is known as an insulated concrete form. These concrete forms are known to consist of thermally resistive foam insulation and have the quality of being durable to a large extent. Carol Smithson Sat, 29 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2282/1/Concrete-Repair Concrete structures are prone to damages such as cracks and gaps due to weathering or constant wear and tear. Concrete has water content and sometimes this water may dry away leaving a gap or void in the concrete. These gaps may weaken the concrete and may result in more cracks or holes that further reduce the strength of the concrete structure. If left unattended, the concrete may become unstable. Structures such as bridges, roadways, high-rise buildings have been known to have suffered irreparable damage due to neglect or want of concrete repair. Carol Smithson Sat, 29 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2281/1/Concrete-Pipe Concrete pipes have been known to exist for more than a thousand years. Being a long lasting and structurally strong material, a concrete pipe is generally used to conduct water supply or serve as drains in both rural and urban areas. Most concrete pipe water supply as well as drainage and sewer systems that have been constructed in the earlier century still stand strong and function as efficiently as when they had first been constructed. Carol Smithson Sat, 29 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2280/1/Concrete-Masonry Although concrete blocks and concrete structures have been in use over a hundred years, concrete masonry has taken an altogether new form in the recent years because of the wide variety of shapes, colors, textures and sizes of not just concrete blocks but entire concrete structures as well. Carol Smithson Sat, 29 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2270/1/Ready-Mix-Concrete A building or construction worksite may need a continuous supply of concrete. If this concrete is mixed and produced at the site, a lot of time could be wasted on getting the right ratio for the mix and also in getting all the ingredients delivered to the site. Carol Smithson Wed, 26 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2269/1/Concrete-Overlay A concrete overlay is simply a method of resurfacing an existing concrete to cover cracks, imperfections or simply to turn a dull and boring concrete floor in to an attractive one. There are various types of overlays available and also a number of decorative options to choose from. Carol Smithson Wed, 26 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2268/1/Concrete-Mixer A concrete mixer, as the name suggests is a device that mixes cement with water and other additives such as sand and gravel. Ranging from large commercial concrete mixer trucks to portable mini mixers, this powered device normally consists of a motor, a rotating drum and a chute. The materials used in making concrete spin around in the drum, mixing evenly and are ready for application or pouring. Carol Smithson Wed, 26 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2267/1/Concrete-Foundation Any good construction involves a strong foundation, which supports the structure. Since the foundation is the first thing to be constructed, the quality and material used in the foundation must be at a superior level. Concrete contractors and construction engineers are best equipped to construct concrete foundations and make them strong and secure for the building structure that will be developed over it. This could range from a single storied house to several miles of roadways or even high-rise buildings and dams. Carol Smithson Wed, 26 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2266/1/Concrete-Cutting Concrete cutting involves controlled cutting or sawing and removal of concrete using special equipment such as saws with diamond impregnated blades and performed by skilled and professional concrete cutting contractors. Concrete cutting is mainly divided into three kinds of activities such as wall sawing, core drilling and slab sawing. Carol Smithson Wed, 26 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2265/1/Concrete-Curbing Concrete curbing is a process that is part of landscape designing. Decorative landscape borders can be constructed using concrete curbing. An activity that is generally carried out by professional concrete curbing contractors and design artists, concrete curbing can be done in a variety of styles, shapes and colors. Carol Smithson Wed, 26 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2264/1/Blacktop-Concrete Blacktop is a combination of gravel, sand and asphalt while concrete is a mixture of cement, gravel and sand. Although both are entirely different products, they may be used together in layers in big construction projects. When a combination of blacktop and concrete is used, it may be referred to as blacktop concrete. Carol Smithson Wed, 26 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2241/1/Concrete-pump Pumping is an efficient way of placing concrete while constructing buildings. This method is very economical and practical. This method of placing concrete proves to be very helpful while constructing high-rise buildings or while placing large slabs where the concrete truck cannot reach the concrete. Carol Smithson Fri, 21 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2240/1/Concrete-Landscaping As the demand for decorative work has increased in landscaping, designers and contractors have found new techniques. Unlike the outdated slab work, concrete landscaping has brought creativity to the forefront because of its fluidity, endless possibilities in color and shading and longevity. Carol Smithson Fri, 21 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2239/1/Concrete-Driveway A concrete driveway can make a dramatic difference in home landscaping and enhance property value by lending itself to a variety of designs available. Concrete is preferred over other materials in the construction of a driveway because concrete is versatile, durable, has a good appearance, requires low maintenance and indicates quality construction from the first glance. Carol Smithson Fri, 21 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2238/1/Concrete-Cleaning Many concrete surfaces accumulate dirt very slowly so it is difficult to notice the change in appearance. But when a concrete surface is cleaned, it is surprising how much better it looks. Scheduled periodic cleaning can avoid the gradual accumulation of dirt on concrete. The most effective way to clean concrete without damaging its surface is power-washing. Carol Smithson Fri, 21 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2180/1/Concrete-Mold Concrete mold is mainly a way of using concrete to its optimum. Concrete can be patterned or molded into any shape or pattern. Concrete molds are mainly used for decorative purposes. Sometimes they may have functional use as well. They are used in constructing stepping-stones, fountains in lawns or in the exterior of the homes. Carol Smithson Thu, 20 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2179/1/Concrete-fence The concrete is a composite building material made from the combination of the aggregate and the cement binder. The basic ingredients of the concrete are Portland cement, mixture of the oxides of calcium, silicon and aluminum. The concrete offers certain physical and mechanical properties. Carol Smithson Thu, 20 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2178/1/Concrete-Calculator Concrete is used for different purposes. While it is the most important part of any construction activity, concrete may be used for decorative purposes as well. Concrete is used in the construction of major projects like roads bridges and dams, it may also be used to simply decorate or design a landscape, a patio or the exterior of the home to meet the requirements of the home owner or the designer. Carol Smithson Thu, 20 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2177/1/Concrete-Acid-Stain Concrete is a composite material used commonly in building construction. It consists of a combination of an aggregate and a cement binder. The most common type of cement comprises Portland cement, mineral aggregates and water. Concrete is the most widely used man-made material on earth. Carol Smithson Thu, 20 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2176/1/Colored-Concrete Concrete is a composite material used commonly in building construction. It consists of a combination of an aggregate and a cement binder. The most common type of cement comprises of Portland cement, mineral aggregates and water. Concrete is the most widely used man-made material on earth. Concrete has high compressive strength, but comparatively lower tensile strength. Carol Smithson Thu, 20 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2166/1/Stamped-Concrete Concrete can be made to resemble tiles, stone, bricks and even wood. This kind of stamped concrete is used to beautify paths, driveways, footways, pool decks, entries and even courtyards or patios. Due to the vast choice of colors and patterns available, stamped concrete is an interesting option to be considered for exterior décor. Carol Smithson Wed, 19 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2165/1/Concrete Concrete is more of a composite building material that brings together finer or coarse aggregates and any type of cement binder. Gravel and sand, besides water, are the essential ingredients one requires for a good concrete mix. Cement is used in the necessary proportion for getting the kind of strength required for the building project. Carol Smithson Wed, 19 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2164/1/Concrete-Stain Chemical stains applied to new, old or remodeled concrete or construction is called as concrete stain. Containing metallic salts which react with the concrete and becoming a permanent part of the concrete, concrete stain is also known as acid stain. Black, brown and blue-green are the color groups that are manufactured by most concrete stain manufacturing companies. Carol Smithson Wed, 19 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2163/1/Concrete-Sealers Concrete sealers are used to seal gaps and leaks on concrete pavements, driveways, patios or even concrete counter tops in the kitchen. Made from synthetic epoxy resins, these sealers seal the gaps and probable leak areas and make the surface water-resistant and prevent water from penetrating into the concrete. Cracks and gaps that may allow moisture to seep in can be filled in using sealers. Carol Smithson Wed, 19 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2162/1/Concrete-Patio A patio is an extension of the home. The outdoors is another place to look at besides the home for entertainment, relaxation or even a barbeque party. A concrete patio can be a great outdoor entertainment as well as party area or simply used for a good cooking time for lunch or dinner. More and more people are finding the patios a great place to enjoy the outdoors while being in the vicinity of their homes. Carol Smithson Wed, 19 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2161/1/Concrete-Counter-tops Concrete countertops provide one more option to make the kitchen looker classier and clean. As good as stone, tiles or even wood, they provide all the benefits of durability, versatility and attractive style and design all in one place. They are available in different sizes, designs and colors and can also be custom-made or stained as per the homeowner's choice. Carol Smithson Wed, 19 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2160/1/Concrete-Contractor Concrete contractors perform structural concrete work on projects such as buildings, bridges, houses and business offices. Using the latest equipment and the latest technology for construction or masonry work, concrete contractors may specialize in either one type of construction or may be well-equipped entire projects by themselves. Carol Smithson Wed, 19 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT http://www.pokingaroundthehome.com/articles/2159/1/Concrete-Blocks Concrete blocks are used as building material in place with or along with bricks and stone. Use of concrete blocks along with cement or mortar results in stronger construction and durability. Also concrete blocks are made from reproduced material. Hence waste resources from quarries or sites are well utilized in the manufacture of concrete blocks. Carol Smithson Wed, 19 Jul 2006 00:00:00 EDT