Re: Pasadena Pool Build by Owner (update: we have cracks :-(
I would be shocked if the Shotcrete guy says it's an issue. The sad truth is that very few people understand the water/cement ratio and how it effects the final product.
Most contractors like more water in the mix, it makes their job easier because they don't have to work as hard or fast and the mix almost self levels. Wetter mixes are much easier on the pumps as well.
Once the water evaporates you end up with voids in the concrete that become inevitable weak points... thus shrinkage cracking occurs. The excess water ultimately decreases the PSI of the concrete.
These cracks are rarely a structural concern and are really more of a cosmetic issue. Of anything they indicate poor workmanship at the mixing plant or on the contractor's part if they added more water to the mix.
The practice of watering the concrete during the curing process is aimed at aiding in the hydration of the concrete as it cures. It has little if any effect on crack prevention. A curing agent is a much better choice than water but I've rarely seen it used. It seems the typical contractor only cares about the job until the check clears
I would be shocked if the Shotcrete guy says it's an issue. The sad truth is that very few people understand the water/cement ratio and how it effects the final product.
Most contractors like more water in the mix, it makes their job easier because they don't have to work as hard or fast and the mix almost self levels. Wetter mixes are much easier on the pumps as well.
Once the water evaporates you end up with voids in the concrete that become inevitable weak points... thus shrinkage cracking occurs. The excess water ultimately decreases the PSI of the concrete.
These cracks are rarely a structural concern and are really more of a cosmetic issue. Of anything they indicate poor workmanship at the mixing plant or on the contractor's part if they added more water to the mix.
The practice of watering the concrete during the curing process is aimed at aiding in the hydration of the concrete as it cures. It has little if any effect on crack prevention. A curing agent is a much better choice than water but I've rarely seen it used. It seems the typical contractor only cares about the job until the check clears