Concrete is an extremely versatile and cost-effective material—it's no wonder why it’s one of the most popular building materials used throughout the world. With stamped concrete, colored concrete, and concrete pavers, there are endless options to choose from when creating your driveway, countertops, or garden project. A specialty company like Builder's Concrete East in Windham, CT, is an excellent resource for anyone looking for guidance on how to choose the appropriate concrete mix for their project. Here are a few things you might want to consider when planning your concrete creation.

Determine How Strong Your Design Must Be 

Are you building stairs or planning on pouring a new driveway or walkway? Highly trafficked concrete surfaces call for a higher strength mix, measured in pounds per square inch (PSI). The PSI of a concrete mix can range from 2,500 PSI up to 10,000 PSI. Generally, you can use a concrete rated to 2,500 PSI for your home driveway, walkways, and floors. However, a professional concrete company may use a higher grade option, rated at 3,000 PSI, to ensure the durability of your design.

Consider The Surface Area & Temperature Of The Space You're Working With

If you are working in a tight space, you may want to consider choosing a concrete mix with a plasticizer, which can improve the fluidity of the mixture, helping it to flow into hard-to-reach areas. If your concrete project will be exposed to a range of temperatures over the year, you might want to choose an entrained air mixture. This mixture holds tiny air bubbles, allowing the surface to expand and shrink with the changing climate.

Choose A Mix With Color & Texture Options That Highlight Your Space

One of the most exciting things about working with concrete is the abundance of coloring and finishing options available to work with. Exposed aggregate mixes allow for a surface covered in river rock or gravel, which are not only beautiful but can also be great for adding traction in wet and slippery environments. If you prefer a smoothed or broomed surface, choose a mix that will suit this treatment. Similarly, if you're going for a stamped or embossed finish, work with the professionals to select a mix that will hold your design. In choosing your color finish, work with a professional consultant to ensure you get the results you're looking for in your mix. There are several colored mixes available, from white to blue, red, or brown. A professional can also apply chemicals to the aggregate to stain, etch, or glaze the finished surface.

Whatever your project idea involves, Builder’s Concrete East can make it become a reality. For all concrete needs in the Windham area, call (860) 456-4111, or call (860) 643-5578 in Manchester today. Visit their website for more information.