Understanding the bottom line is crucial, and attention to these details comes down to you understanding why there is a difference in pricing per square meter charged by experienced builders. It all starts with Concrete, we will explore and highlight other issues as we progress. 

 

It all starts with Concrete

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Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, sand, and gravel that can harden into a strong and durable material when it cures. The process of curing involves a chemical reaction between the cement and water, known as hydration. This reaction causes the cement particles to bind together, forming a solid and cohesive mass.

Concrete Gains Strength 

During the curing process, the concrete gains strength and continues to harden for weeks, months, and even years. This process is called growth or maturity, and it occurs as a result of continued hydration and the gradual filling of void spaces within the concrete.

SANS 5861-3:2006 Specifications

Proper curing is essential to ensure that the concrete reaches its maximum strength and durability. The SANS 5861-3:2006 standard specifies the requirements for the curing of concrete in South Africa. It includes guidelines on the duration and methods of curing, such as wet curing, membrane curing, and sealing.

Experience and Expertise

However, even with the right standard in place, proper curing requires knowledge, experience, and expertise. It is strongly indicated that SAPAC builders on https://sapac.co.za should be used to ensure that the concrete is mixed, placed, and cured properly. Improper curing can lead to weak and brittle concrete, which can compromise the safety and stability of the structure.

Choosing builders on SAPAC Platform

Builders on the SAPAC platform have the required skill and experience to ensure that the concrete is mixed, placed, and cured according to the SANS standard. They also have access to the latest technology and equipment to ensure that the curing process is done efficiently and effectively.

In summary, the process of concrete curing involves mixing the concrete, placing it in the desired location, allowing it to set and harden, and then curing it for a period of time to allow for continued hydration and growth. Proper curing is essential to ensure that the concrete reaches its maximum strength and durability, and the SANS 5861-3:2006 standard provides guidelines for curing in South Africa. However, using Builders on SAPAC, with the required skill and experience is equally important to ensure that the curing process is done properly and efficiently, "allow me to elaborate"

1. Mixing the Concrete: Concrete is a mixture of cement, water, sand, and gravel. The materials are mixed in specific proportions to create the desired strength and consistency.

2. Placing the Concrete: Once mixed, the concrete is placed in the desired location using various techniques, such as pouring or pumping. The concrete is then levelled and smoothed to ensure a uniform surface.

3. Initial Setting: During the first few hours after placing, the concrete remains plastic and can be shaped or moulded. This stage is called the initial setting, and it occurs as the water in the mixture begins to react with the cement.

4. Final Setting: After a few hours, the concrete starts to harden and set. This stage is called the final setting, and it occurs as the cement particles begin to bond together, forming a solid and cohesive mass.

5. Curing: The curing process is critical to the strength and durability of the concrete. It involves keeping the concrete moist and at the right temperature for a period of time, typically 28 days, to allow the hydration process to continue.

6. Hydration: During the curing process, the chemical reaction between the cement and water continues, causing the cement particles to bind together and form a solid and cohesive mass. This process is called hydration.

7. Growth: As the concrete cures, it continues to gain strength and harden. This process is called growth or maturity and occurs as a result of continued hydration and the gradual filling of void spaces within the concrete.

8. Physical Changes: During the curing process, the concrete undergoes physical changes. In the first few hours, the concrete remains plastic and can be shaped or moulded. After a few days, it becomes stiff and can support its weight. Over time, the concrete becomes stronger and more resistant to the elements.

9. Importance of Experienced SAPAC Builders: Concrete curing is a complex process that requires knowledge, experience, and expertise. Only experienced builders should be used to ensure that the concrete is mixed, placed, and cured properly. Improper curing can lead to weak and brittle concrete, which can compromise the safety and stability of the structure.

In summary, the process of concrete curing involves mixing the concrete, placing it in the desired location, allowing it to set and harden, and then curing it for a period of time to allow for continued hydration and growth. This process is critical to the strength and durability of the concrete and requires experienced builders to ensure proper mixing, placing, and curing.

"You get what you pay for, choosing cheap builders with promises can result in long builds, legal issues down the road. Resulting in more cost expenditure per square meter. The choice is Yours to make!"

 

Photo credit: Mr Eben Potgieter

Making an informed choice on m2 price versus experienced builders

If concrete is applied by cheap builders, it can lead to a range of safety issues. And this has been shown over and over to happen! Here are some potential safety hazards that can arise from inexperienced application of concrete:

1. Weak and Brittle Concrete: Inexperienced builders may not mix the concrete properly, which can result in weak and brittle concrete that lacks the necessary strength to support the weight of the structure. This can lead to the collapse of the structure and pose a significant risk to the safety of people in and around the building.

2. Uneven Surface: If the concrete is not placed and leveled properly, it can result in an uneven surface. This can create tripping hazards and increase the risk of injury, especially for children and the elderly.

3. Structural Damage: Improper placement of concrete can also cause structural damage to the building. For example, if the concrete is not reinforced correctly, it can cause cracks to form in the walls and floors, which can weaken the structure and compromise its stability.

4. Environmental Hazards: Inexperienced builders may not properly handle the chemicals used in the concrete mixing process, such as cement, which can be harmful to the environment and pose a risk to public health.

5. Legal Liability: Using inexperienced builders for concrete application can also lead to legal liability. In the event of an accident or injury caused by faulty concrete work, the builder can be held liable for damages, which can result in costly legal fees and settlements.

 

 Photo credit: Mr Eben Potgieter

 

 

Remember: "Cheap builders may know the process, but is boils down to you thinking you are making an informed choice. You do ultimately stay responsible for appointing a builder. Legal avenues is costly, time consuming and emotionally taxing. Thinking of building cheap always result in some sort of issues down the road!" And go work it out more per square meter. 

 

In conclusion, inexperienced application of concrete can pose a significant risk to the safety of the building and the people in and around it. It is crucial to use experienced builders with the necessary knowledge, skill, and expertise to ensure that the concrete is mixed, placed, and cured properly. This will not only ensure the safety of the building but also protect against legal liability and potential harm to the environment.

"inspection by a competent Home Inspector identifies these critical issues, after each build. This results all the time in legal concerns for the new home owner. You get what you pay for at the end of the day!

 Photo credit: Mr Eben Potgieter

 

 

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