Concrete 101: Should You Attempt a DIY or Call a Pro?

​In the modern construction industry, it is pretty common to see buildings with concrete material. There is hardly any structure without this material as one of its components. Many would think that the process of mixing concrete is a simple task, but in actuality, it is far from the truth. Still, many are trying their hands on DIYs, but when do you decide to do it or call for professional help?
​#concrete #concreteconstruction

Is DIY Right for your Concrete Project

When deciding to do a DIY project, you must first assess the requirements for such an endeavour. Aside from the budget, do you have what it takes to see the task through to its completion? Do you have the knowledge and skills required to finish the job? Do you have the willingness to learn if you don't have any idea how to do it? Here are more things you should look into: 

Confidence

Arguably the most vital component of any DIY project is your confidence level. If you are not confident, then you are not comfortable. If you don't have the confidence to do the task, it will be challenging to function. If you don't feel like doing it yet, try watching some videos, doing some research, and acting out first. Just bear in mind that concrete may look simple but challenging, so prepare your mind. 

Background Knowledge

You can work on your DIY project better and more efficiently if you know concrete, especially when mixing proportions and other related facts. Having background knowledge about the task will lessen the possibility of mistakes. It is necessary to do advanced research before diving into the work. Understanding Concrete - Why Builders Need to Know More

Skills
​
This component is another critical factor to consider when you think about doing a DIY. Having the skills to do the task is an absolute requirement. It would be dangerous for someone without the skills to do all the work, resulting in costly mistakes. If you are physically fit and can function, you can benefit from some practice by imitating online videos. Do not hurt yourself while renovating or building your home. Safety tips.

Proper Equipment

It would be best to have all the equipment ready before the actual work begins. If you don't have it prepared, then you can't possibly proceed to do the job. Assess the materials you need and include the necessary safety equipment before considering doing the project. It would be best to have a checklist of all the required materials and procedures to use them. Reinforcing Steel what you should know

When is a DIY Concrete Project Appropriate?

There are primarily two factors when you should consider doing a DIY; the scope of your project and time constraints. If the project is too massive for you to do and you know that you need an entire team to get things done, then don't do it and call in a professional contractor instead. There will be less stress, and you'll have peace of mind.

The other thing is time constraints. If you're okay doing the project for an extended time, then a DIY is just fine. You can set the job as a side project that you can do in your free time. However, if you need a speedy project completion, you can only do so by hiring a team of professionals. Just ensure that you are hiring a reputable company first.

Common DIY Concrete Projects Mistakes

1. Making the pad too big is a frequent error. You must create a form for the project before concrete. Knowing the maximum size is essential for preventing the final project from drooping and breaking. 
2. Another DIY blunder is not leveling the concrete pattern or form. For the completed product to be level, you must adequately put out the sides. It would help balance the foundation so that the concrete does not sink too much in some areas, causing uneven drying and distortion.
3. When rushing to complete a task, it's tempting to skip the precise measuring and add water to a dry concrete mix until it "looks about right." Inadequately mixed concrete, on the other hand, is more prone to break. You can mend or seal some cracks, but if a building's foundation cracks, it will require a significant investment to restore. Foundation flaws can also drastically reduce a property's or building's value. It takes time to plan appropriately, measure, mix and finish concrete. Professionals understand the importance of doing it correctly the first time.

Why Hire Professional Concrete Contractors?

Cost-Effective

Because there aren't many locations that rent equipment, you'll almost certainly need to acquire numerous items if you decide to take on the process yourself. When the bought incorrect tools or the project becomes more difficult than expected, costs can quickly spiral out of control. ​When construction equipment arrives on your project check these things. When you employ a professional contractor, they bring their instruments and machines and complete tasks at a lower and more inexpensive price.

Speed

The learning curve might be quite severe. Concrete projects may take a long time to complete and are harsh if you make too many mistakes. Projects frequently necessitate equipment, supplies, and other requirements that are only known if you've completed the job previously. When a concrete repair project fails to meet expectations, it may be necessary to rebuild the entire structure. 

Due to a replacement requirement, you may squander the time spent attempting to save money, which will result in more wasted time and money.  

Efficiency

We live in a society where time is genuinely vital, and we don't enjoy waiting or having our plans postponed. A skilled contractor will restore the concrete quickly and accurately, adhering to the schedule. Efficiency also means less inconvenient situations. These initiatives frequently force you to park in awkward locations and prevent you from walking where you want to go. 

We often take concrete for granted, and when it isn't accessible, we aren't satisfied. It's vital to have a well-thought-out strategy in place so that your daily routine can return to normal.

Reliability

When it comes to concrete leveling, you want a long-term solution that will leave your house or project looking better than new. Relying on yourself is always dangerous due to the unanticipated challenges that may arise. Pay for the trustworthiness and the assurance that the concrete restoration will last and be sturdy.

Experience

An old saying says you can't put a price on experience, but you can if you are a concrete contractor. The ideal answer is to hire a professional concrete contractor to fix your damaged and uneven concrete since the contractor is knowledgeable and has learned their craft from other professionals. Read This Before Selecting Your Home Renovation and Building Contractor.

Due to their vast experience in their trade, they can quickly answer most of the issues that most inexperienced contractors can't. They even know how to handle the flush steel floor doors properly when they encounter a situation where they need not block any access to it. Without their years of know-how, your project may take more time and even get exposed to more risks.

Peace of Mind

Poor construction work may result in a problem with your house or structure, resulting in injury to a person or property. It places you at risk of being held responsible for property destruction and damages, which no one wants to happen. If you use a competent concrete firm, you may have more peace of mind knowing that the job is strong, robust, and long-lasting.

Image by s m anamul rezwan from Pixabay

Conclusion

When undertaking a small-size project without any time constraints, you may do a DIY, but you must call in the professionals for help when it comes to significantly bigger ones. Never put your projects at risk when you know that you can call someone with the expertise and experience to handle the work for you. Just ensure that you're getting help from a reputable contractor and not from shady ones.
​#homeimprovement #homeremodeling #houseconstruction

​Other Useful Articles:
Staging plumbing and electrical when building and renovating houses
Purchasing Building Materials For Your Home Building Project
​Before employing a building contractor ask these questions

Author

​Chris Jackson is an experienced Business Development Manager with a demonstrated history of working in the construction industry. He is currently employed by Best Access Doors, an access door supplier in the US and Canada, and has been working for the company for more than 12 years now. His area of expertise is on Negotiation, Roofers, Sales, Project Estimation, and Facility Management (FM)

Want to learn more about designing, renovating and building houses?

​Paul Netscher has written 2 easy to read books 'An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses - Volumes 1 and 2'. An Introduction to Building and Renovating Houses Volume 1 deals with Hiring Contractors, Managing Construction and Finishing Your Home.  and Designing your ideal home Volume 2 deals with Finding Your Ideal Property and Designing Your Dream Home. 
​("Great for those that DIY. Very helpful in home renovations!" said a Reader on Amazon.com 5*****)
These books are available from Amazon and other online bookstores in paper and ebook.