Pouring concrete on your property can seem like a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right masonry supplies from a trusted source, the job becomes a little less stressful. To help make the process easier, the commercial and residential concrete experts at Miller's Ready Mix Concrete & Block in Mayfield, NY have these tips to share so that your sidewalks come out perfect every time:

• Lay Down A Sturdy Base: After digging to the desired depth, pack down a few inches of gravel or sand that will act as support for the concrete. This will guarantee that your mix will not sink down later or crack underneath the weight of heavy objects like cars and other vehicles.
• Try To Keep The Mix As Dry As Possible When Pouring It: Though more water will create an easier pour, it will also ultimately make the slab weaker once it dries. To avoid this, keep your concrete on the dryer side and pack it down that way.
• Don’t Finish Your Concrete Too Early: Troweling your concrete while there is still water on the surface can damage the top layer and cause cracks to form more easily. Once the water disappears, trowel the surface as fast as you can before it firms up.
• Let The Concrete Cure Gradually: Pouring water over your concrete or covering it with a tarp in more moderate climates will make sure the final product is much stronger than if you let it cure quickly. After a week, you can stop with the curing help and let it harden on its own.

For masonry supplies you can trust, call the commercial and residential concrete professionals from Miller's Ready Mix Concrete & Block at (518) 661-5601 or go online to their website for more information.