One of the common problems which affect concrete flooring is getting holes as they age. However, it can be quite puzzling when a newly installed concrete floor starts developing portholes. When a concrete floor is installed correctly, it becomes stronger with age. However, proper installation is crucial if you want to avoid bubbles and pits from appearing on newly installed concrete floors. Below are three common causes of gaps in concrete flooring.

The presence of air during mixing

Air is essential in the concrete mixing process because it gives the concrete room to freeze and thaw at different temperatures. However, when an excessive amount of air is entrapped in the mortar and it does not escape during the pouring, the newly laid concrete floor could develop bubbles, which later erupt into holes. When installing concrete, you should ensure that the mixer has enough vibration time to remove excess moisture and that enough time is given to the concrete to dry before the smoothing the surface with a trowel.

Wrong ratio of water and other mortar ingredients

When the concrete mixture has too much water, it becomes too weak and leads to bubbles getting trapped in the mix. With time, these air bubbles rise to the surface of the concrete floor, causing the holes. Bleeding time should be allocated to the cement floor before finishing to avoid the formation of these bubbles.

Too much de-moulding agent

There is a chemical which is used as a barrier between the area where the concrete is being installed and the surrounding structures. The compound is known as a release agent. When too much of the chemical is used in the process, the composition of the concrete is affected, and this eventually leads to the formation of bubbles. When the compound comes into contact with water or air, it causes a lot of damage to the newly installed concrete floor.

It is possible to achieve seamless floors, but only when the right conditions are in place during the installation. The weather is also an essential condition to be factored in because if you install concrete when it is raining, the water will create an imbalance in the ratio. The best way to ensure that your newly established concrete floor stays smooth and blemish free is to hire a professional concrete contractor to do the mixing and the installation. They will know the right processes to follow to make sure that the new concrete does not end up ruined.