What I'm Working On For You
I've seen a plentitude of videos on YouTube about a shortcut method of installing concrete pads, sidewalks, etc.
The folks in the videos pour out bags of dry concrete mix into forms. They
then level it and lightly sprinkle the upper surface. Once that hardens, they then add lots more water over a few hours.
This is so much easier than working with wet concrete. But is it BETTER?
I have serious doubts about this method and am trying to get in touch with the top scientists at the Portland Cement Association (PCA).
My
concerns are based in my geology degree. One wonders if the water flowing down through the mix carries too much of the cement powder to the bottom of the mix. Think about why the water in creeks is muddy after a rainstorm. The water grabs onto the fine dirt in the ground and carries it away.
The moving water might even transport the cement out of the mix into the soil below.
If this is
true, the concrete will not exhibit its intended design strength. The other issue is you can't put a nice finish on the concete as you'd achieve using a magnesium or steel trowel on wet concrete you must bullfloat and finish.
My common-sense meter tells me this is not the way to pour concrete. I'll let you know what the PCA folks say.
Do You Have an OVE Decor Shower?
Do you have in your house this brand of acrylic shower, OVE Decor? If so, please respond to me and let me know if you've had any issue(s) with it. I'm talking about leaks, the doors not working, the acrylic cracking, etc.