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Maine Concrete Cutting
182 Oak Ridge Rd
Biddeford, ME 04005
207-284-0788

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All that has been said concerning voids in sand applies with equal force to the coarse aggregate. Screens varying by a quarter of an inch from 1/4 inch up are desirable, but a very useful analysis may be made with fewer screens. A uniform size of stone filled with mortar does not make as dense or as strong a concrete as one in which the coarse aggregate is well graded-that is, where the small stones partly fill the larger interstices. A straight line on a mechanical-analysis diagram indicates a uniform grading of size.

A general rule is that the larger the stone, the stronger and denser the concrete. Experience has shown that for reinforced concrete that the maximum size should not be more than about 1 inch to 1 1/2 inches, in order for the concrete to fit itself closely around the reinforcing metal. Subsequently, the smaller the stone and the greater the surface to be coated, means the greater the amount of cement required.

Most gravel is sufficiently durable for use in concrete. They should be at least reasonably clean, although a quantity of finely divided clay equal to 5 to 10 per cent of the gravel may add to the strength of the concrete, if the cement paste does not entirely fill the voids. The presence of clay requires very thorough mixing. When gravel is used, it should be screened to separate the sand and then be remixed in order that the proportions may be definite.

Servicing the Following Cities and Towns in Maine ME - Biddeford, Saco, Acton, Alfred, Arundel, Berwick, Buxton, Cornish, Dayton Maine, Eliot, Hollis, Kennebunk, Kennebunkport, Kittery, Lebanon, Limerick, Limington, Lyman, Newfield, North Berwick, Ogunquit Maine, Old Orchard Beach, Parsonsfield, Sanford, Shapleigh, South Berwick, Waterboro, Wells and York.