Personally, I'd go for a bit more than 3" of concrete if you're putting a vehicle on it, that would be OK for a footpath, but not really for anything more. Personally, I'd double that, but that may be overkill.
And yes, mesh is important:
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Concrete is strong in compression, but not under tension. So, if it flexes, like a slab with a vehicle on top of will do, it cracks at the bottom whre the flexing becomes tension. Steel mesh will prevent this to a large degree and hold it all together. This is why the mesh should sit closer to the bottom.
"Get the mesh cut into bits, then wire it together"
That's what I would do. Or more likely get it delivered, with my ballast and cement.
I could go on about this adinfinitum (I've got qualifications in concrete &#; Yawn!) but I won't&#;. &#;
Concrete mesh is ideal for reinforcing your slab, and it comes in two options: fiber mesh and wire mesh. Each of these types are sufficient in minimizing structural damage and cracking, but there are distinct differences between the two. Continue reading as we discuss when to use each type.
Wire Mesh
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Wire mesh makes concrete more durable and increases its strength. The area in which the concrete will be laid down should be covered in mesh before pouring commences. As the concrete is poured, the wire mesh should be lifted up so that it&#;s positioned in the middle of the concrete in order to provide steel reinforcement. This particular type of reinforcement resembles a two-dimensional grid, which plays an important role in its support capabilities.
Fiber Mesh
Fiber mesh is made up of fibrous materials like synthetic fibers, glass fibers, natural fibers, and steel fibers. It is typically used in sidewalks, patios, and driveways. Rather than being laid down prior to the pour, this type of mesh is distributed evenly throughout the wet concrete.
The purpose of fiber mesh is to reduce water loss from the concrete as well as enhance its structural integrity. This type is also used to create a higher impact resistance in the concrete, prevent thawing, and increase its strength. Unlike wire mesh, this particular type of reinforcement provides more than just a single layer of support&#;it reinforces concrete throughout its entire surface.
When selecting which type to use, you will need to consider both the time and price each will cost you. Because constructing a driveway, sidewalk, or patio can be quite difficult for residents to maneuver around, you&#;ll want to make sure that the project is completed as soon as possible. Using wire mesh is typically a longer process than fiber mesh, because it requires time to overlap and must be laid twice. Keep in mind that the longer the project takes, the more it will cost you.
At Port Aggregates, our professional contractors are here to help you with any questions that you may have regarding your concrete project and the type of mesh that it requires. We look forward to helping you create the strongest, most efficient concrete to suit your needs&#;whether it be commercial, residential, or precast. Contact us today to request a quote! We proudly offer service to 24 locations across Louisiana.
Contact us to discuss your requirements of concrete slab mesh. Our experienced sales team can help you identify the options that best suit your needs.