Frequently Asked Questions

What is Efflorescence? Efflorescence is a white powder-like deposit common in concrete products. The white powder is the result of internal water from the mix or external water such as rain carrying a soluble salt to the surface, drying, and creating the white powder. Efflorescence will naturally disappear over time with weathering.

Will my blocks fade? Our pigment is integrally mixed into the concrete leaving each block fully colored. The pigment will not fade over time and is UV light protected.

Should I use a sealer? A sealer can add beauty to a concrete product by giving it a glossier look as well as prolonging the life of the product, however, it is not required. Our products are designed to stand up to the weather without additional care. Concrete sealers are available at your local hardware store or masonry supplier.

Can I drive on my Masters Pieces? Under no circumstance should you drive on your Masters Pieces blocks. They are designed for use in patios, sidewalks, and decoration only.

What type of Sand should I use as a setting bed? Concrete sand makes the best material for a setting bed. It allows for ease of setting as well as good drainage because of its coarseness.

Should I sweep Portland cement into the cracks? Never use Portland cement in the joints between your Masters Pieces. It will stain the blocks as well as decrease the drainage characteristics of the concrete sand.

What should I do if my Masters Pieces become damaged? The beauty of a Masters Piece patio block is that if in the unfortunate event one is damaged it is simple to remove one or more pieces and replace them.

Masters Ready Mixed Concrete FAQ’s

Can a “Do it Yourselfer” Pour concrete? Generally speaking, concrete should be left to experienced professionals. Concrete is not a forgiving product, and inexperience can lead to costly errors. However, if you feel you are capable, we will sell concrete to you. If you do hire a contractor, we recommend doing some research so that you hire a competent and knowledgeable professional.

Is concrete dangerous? Yes. Ready mixed concrete can cause severe burns. Never allow concrete to touch exposed areas of skin. Proper protection (rubber boots, gloves, safety glasses) should be worn at all times. Remember concrete should not be handled by inexperienced persons!

What are your prices? Prices vary depending on mix, location, and various other factors. Always ask the dispatcher for current pricing.

How do I determine the quantity I need? Use our handy concrete yardage calculator right here on our Web site, or if you prefer, our dispatchers can always figure the quantity you need simply by giving them the dimensions of your project.

What mix should I use? These are typical applications for certain mixes.

• Footings – 2500psi, 3000psi, or 3500psi. 3000psi is most typical and is sufficient.
  
• Interior Floors – 3000psi, 3500psi, or 4000psi depending on weight loads and abrasion resistance requirements.
  
• Exterior Flatwork- 4000psi - Superior durability & resistance to freeze thaw cycles.
  
• Walls- 3000psi or 3500psi are typical choices for walls.
  

Remember these are typical uses. If you are still uncertain, please ask one of our professionals.

Why do I want air in my concrete? Entrained air improves concrete’s durability by increasing its resistance to the freeze thaw cycle. All of our concrete comes entrained with air unless otherwise specified. Non air-entrained concrete is more suitable for concrete slabs and other concrete that will not be exposed to the weather. Make sure you discuss this option with the dispatcher.

Do I want Fiber Mesh in my concrete? Fiber is a great option because it is a simple and economical way to “reduce plastic (concrete in its wet state) and hardened concrete shrinkage cracking, settlement cracking, improve impact strength, increase fatigue resistance and concrete toughness”. It is also an easier method of providing secondary reinforcement for you concrete without the use of wire mesh.

What area do you cover? We cover Northeast Pennsylvania and parts of the Southern Tier of New York. Simply look at the map on our site to see if you qualify for delivery. If you’re still not sure, just give a call and we’ll let you know if you’re in our area.

How can I keep concrete from setting too fast? If you are concerned with your concrete setting to fast, using a retarder is a simple solution. Ask one of our professionals to assist you in addressing specific solutions.

How can I make concrete set-up faster? If you are in a situation where you need your concrete to set-up faster, there are two types of “accelerators” to choose from. These are grouped into chloride and non-chloride accelerators, and each has its advantages and disadvantages. Our dispatchers can answer your questions about specific applications. Finally, be sure you are comfortable with the reduced time you will have to handle the product.

What is the smallest quantity you will deliver? The largest? There is no job too big or too small. The smallest quantity we deliver is 1 cu. yd., but there is a delivery fee for anything less than 5 cu. yds. From there the possibilities are endless.

What is quality concrete?

Concrete should possess the following characteristics in the plastic state.

• Contain enough water to produce a mix that has a relatively stiff consistency, which works readily and does not segregate
  
• Normally concrete delivered to projects has a slump of between 3 and 4 inches. If an excessive amount of water is added to the mix, it will affect the durability and reduce the strength of the concrete.
  
• Did you know? If you increase the slump about one inch you…
  
  - cut the compressive strength by as much as 200 psi
  - waste the effect of ¼ bag of cement
  - increase the shrinkage potential about 10%
  - decrease the freeze-thaw cycle resistance by as much as 20%
  - decrease the resistance to attacks by de-icing salts

Quality concrete should possess the following characteristics in the hardened state.

• Good durability
  
• Adequate compressive strength and flexural strength
  
• Reduced shrinkage and cracking characteristics
  
• High impermeability
  
• Good abrasion resistance.
  

Is concrete available in different colors? There are many colors to choose from. You will surely find something to fit your needs or the needs of your customer. Please call and make arrangements to look at a color chart. Also, the cost of color can vary significantly. Please call for pricing.

I have a unique problem and it’s not answered here, who do I talk to? Any one of our experienced professionals can answer all of your questions. Simply call and we’ll help you find a solution. We’ve just about heard it all.