Concrete Contractor November/December 2023

November/December 2023

20 TOP 5 TRENDS IN CONCRETE FLOORING

THIS YEAR’S BEST CONTRACTORS TO WORK FOR

MAKE YOUR STAMPED CONCRETE STAND OUT

HOW TO GET STARTED WITH COLOR HARDENER

Same-day bolt up in cold weather.

©2023 Simpson Strong-Tie Company Inc. AT3G23-C

®

Introducing Simpson Strong-Tie AT-3G anchoring adhesive.

Now you can cure fast in extreme cold and damp or dry conditions with AT-3G. This hybrid, acrylic-based adhesive is code listed for anchoring threaded rod and rebar into cracked and uncracked concrete, plus post-installed rebar connections. You can use it for in-service temperatures from -40°F to 320°F. Available in single coaxial and side-by-side cartridges, AT-3G dispenses easily using standard Simpson Strong-Tie manual, pneumatic or battery-powered tools. Best of all, it cures fast enough for same-day bolt up. So you can finish the job, no matter the weather.

Save time and effort on your next adhesive anchoring job with AT-3G. To learn more, visit go.strongtie.com/AT3G, or call (800) 999-5099.

Anchoring Solutions | Products, Software and Service for Smarter Building

WHAT’S INSIDE

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023 | Issue 6, Volume 24

COVER STORY 16 How To Get

Started With Color Hardener Stand out from the crowd with this advice on using a color hardener on your next stamped concrete job.

DEPARTMENTS 4 Editor’s Letter 6 New Products 16 Product Focus

Floats & Hand Trowels

30 Product Focus

Stamping & Stenciling

42 The Last Placement Cover Photo Courtesy of Deco-CRETE Supply

FEATURES 8 World Of Concrete

33 Presenting The Best

Join us and the whole of the concrete industry as World of Concrete celebrates 50 years!

Solving the workforce challenge starts with great employers.

2024 PREVIEW

14 Award Winning

Concrete

The winning projects and contrctors of the ACI and ASCC DCC concrete project award programs.

24 Top 5 Trends In

Concrete Flooring Contractors should understand and embrace these five trends in concrete flooring to offer homeowners more than a functional flooring solution.

28 Working With

Asbestos

How to approach floor preparation work in buidlings with asbestos.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

Contractors To Work For In Construction

FORM YOUR BUSINESS 34 The AI Advantage

One of the areas that has seen the greatest AI-powered innovation has been construction scheduling.

Here’s how self-performing concrete contractors can benefit.

Published and copyrighted 2023 by IRONMARKETS. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.

Concrete Contractor (USPS 021-799, ISSN 1935-1887 (print); ISSN 2471-2302 (online) is published six times a year:January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October and November/December by IRONMARKETS, 201 N. Main Street, Ste 350, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538. Printed in the U.S.A. Periodicals postage paid at Fort Atkinson, WI, and additional entry offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to Concrete Contractor, PO Box 3605 Northbrook, IL 60065-3605 November/December 2023, Issue 6, Volume 24 One year subscription to non-qualified individuals: U.S. 1 year: $35, 2 years: $70. Canada & Mexico 1 year: $60, 2 years: $105. All other countries 1 year: $85, 2 years: $160 (payable in U.S. funds drawn on U.S. banks). Single copies available (prepaid only) $10.00 each (U.S., Canada & Mexico), $15.00 each (International) Printed in the U.S.A.

Published by: IRONMARKETS 201 N. Main Street Ste 350 Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (800) 538-5544 • WWW.IRON.MARKETS

WHAT’S ONLINE Caterpillar Plans to Expand Electrification and Energy Offerings at CES 2024 ForConstructionPros.com/22880335

Concrete Conventions & Tradeshows For 2024 Which are you planning on attending?

ForConstructionPros.com/22871357

NOVERMBER/DECEMBER 2023

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 3

EDITOR’S LETTER

Perception, Perspective & Purpose

I

f not in my home office, I’m at a convention, a press conference, or a seminar. At a minimum, all this helps me ask better questions. I ran into one recently and wanted to bring it here.

In one roundtable session during the 2023 American Society of Concrete Contractors Fall Conference, the conversation got—if you would allow me an editorial here—energetic about nomenclature. The roundtable hosted a variety of contractors of various levels of experience and different areas of the decorative side of concrete. At the risk of opening that can here, I’d like to address the topic. Spoiler, I ended with more questions than answers; the gray scale between the terms seems to oscillate as much as a finisher’s hand trowel.

The question at hand: Do you consider architectural concrete, decorative? Vice versa?

What’s the difference? If there’s a separation of the two, where does that contraction joint lay?

Reviewing my notes, the roundtable took a look at perception, perspective, and purpose. I think one of the problems came from over-simplifying a decorative concrete contractor to just an artist—that decorative concrete work was less prestigious than its counterparts. It’s a debate on terminology but it matters. Obviously, there’s artistry involved in decorative work but there’s artistry involved in architectural concrete too. If someone is trained for decorative concrete work, there were questions about which terminology would best represent the necessary pay.

ADVISORY BOARD Kim Basham KB Engineering Cheyenne, Wyo. James Baty II Concrete Foundations Association Mt. Vernon, Iowa

EDITORIAL Editor........................................................Jonathan Kozlowski jkozlowski@iron.markets Managing Editor................................................... Gigi Wood gwood@iron.markets Senior Editor, Construction Technology, IRONPROS...........

JONATHAN KOZLOWSKI, EDITOR JKOZLOWSKI@IRON.MARKETS

Experts considered factors like the project’s application, the original intention, and if there was a structural element involved in attempting to uncover a clear definition.

They turned to their knowledge of various committees within ACI and ASTM and brought up how one architectural concrete division seemed to consider more vertical work. That can’t be the limit between the two terms, could it? The slab itself has structural elements and doing its fair share of holding up the floors above. So ...

Specification was also considered. The argument was that it would be more clear to specify elements in architectural work vs decorative. The mix can be specified. The finish type. The curves of columns. But couldn’t decorative stamping and stenciling be specified? The hardness of the epoxy floor?

(Is hardness a decorative element?) Yet, the artist is the one who figures out how to get that concrete design to pop.

Maybe discerning what’s not between the two is easier than discovering the definition.

Maybe it’s as simple as accepting that there are elements of both in each other. You can have an artistic element on that structural concrete—the Decorative Concrete Council’s and ACI’s annual award programs are testaments to that. (See page 14.)

What do you think? Is architectural concrete, decorative concrete? Is decorative concrete, architectural? Does it matter?

Where does polishing and masonry fall in this Venn diagram? Write me at jkozlowski@ iron.markets, what you think.

AUDIENCE Audience Development Manager.................. Angela Franks PRODUCTION Senior Production Manger............................... Cindy Rusch crusch@iron.markets Art Director..................................................... Marcy Murphy ADVERTISING/SALES Sales Representative........................................Nikki Lawson. nlawson@iron.markets Sales Representative........................................Patty Maroder pmaroder@iron.markets IRONMARKETS Chief Executive Officer......................................... Ron Spink Chief Financial Officer.................................. JoAnn Breuchel Chief Revenue Officer................................... Amy Schwandt Brand Director, Supply Chain & Green Industry.Jason DeSarle Brand Director, Construction........................... Sean Dunphy VP Audience & Marketing............................ Ronda Hughes VP, Operations & IT........................................... Nick Raether Content Director............................................. Marina Mayer GM, Online & Marketing Services........... Bethany Chambers Director, Demand Generation & Education.........Jim Bagan Content Director, Marketing Services........... Jess Lombardo CIRCULATION & SUBSCRIPTIONS P.O. Box 3605, Northbrook, IL 60065-3605 (877) 201-3915 | Fax: (847)-291-4816 circ.ConcreteContractor@omeda.com

LIST RENTAL Sr. Account Manager.......................Bart Piccirillo | Data Axle (518) 339 4511 | bart.piccirillo@infogroup.com

REPRINT SERVICES Sales Representative........................................ Nikki Lawson. nlawson@iron.markets

Published and copyrighted 2023 by IronMarkets.

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including photocopy, recording, or any information storage or retrieval system, without written permission from the publisher.

Jim Cuviello Cuviello Concrete Polished | Stained | Crafted Stevensville, Md. Chris Klemaske T.B. Penick & Sons, Inc. San Diego, Calif. ®

Dennis Purinton Purinton Builders, Inc. East Granby, Conn.

4 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR

Charles Rathmann crathmann@iron.markets Junior Editor........................................................Merina Shriver. mshriver@iron.markets

Published by IRONMARKETS 201 N. Main Street, Fort Atkinson, WI 53538 (800) 538-5544 • www.iron.markets

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

NEW PRODUCTS

For more information visit https://CONC.me/products

Aquajet Revojet 270 High-pressure Pump

Aquajet’s Revojet 270 high-pressure pump, serves as a solution for smaller-scale hydrodemolition projects. It can be used with Aquajet’s compact Aqua Cutter 410 and the Ergo system for applications such as small parking garage renovation and industrial cleaning. The REVO Control System provides a range of functions for users to control and monitor the Revojet: • Closed-loop pressure control or RPM control and smart pressure regulating that finds the set pressure from the idle or auto-stop state • A mode that flushes the hoses without any nozzle mounted • RPM hold delay for hand lancing that minimizes delay when the high-pressure trigger is activated https://CONC.me/t7pgul2n

Toro 30-in. Dingo Attachments

Toro has introduced a new line of attachments for its eDingo 500 compact utility loader that features a narrow 30-in. width. These attachments are designed for indoor demolition and construction jobsites and fit through a standard 3-ft. door. The line includes a standard bucket, adjustable forks, a floor scraper and a grapple bucket. The line of 30-in. attachments is compatible with all Dingo models, except the TXL 2000. The standard bucket has a capacity of under 3 cu. ft. Crafted with a laser-cut, all-steel construction frame, the floor scraper tackles challenging tasks on worksites, from vinyl, quarry and ceramic tiles to carpet squares, paint, glue and more. The 30-inch grapple bucket is designed for contractors looking for a bucket to grab, drag, lift and remove demolition debris and materials.

Wooster Products Stair Saver Epoxy Kit

Hilti’s BIM-driven Integrated Project Solutions (IPS) offers a suite of services designed for various aspects of construction projects from design, construction and operation phases. As a solution, the IPS can help manage issues such as space constraints, loading conditions and the application of relevant building codes related to projects, supporting coordination and scheduling. By combining pre-fabrication services, logistics, jobsite automation and digital solutions, the IPS help drive construction practices. Hilti will begin by providing customers Integrated Design Services with 3D visualizations through engineering support and industry-compliant Building Information Modelling (BIM) technology to support MEP installations, such as multi-trade supports that include firestop solutions before construction begins.

Wooster Products’ Stair Saver Epoxy Kit rejuvenates non-slip stair nosings and treads, restoring them to like-new condition. This kit restores various brands of nosing or tread where the abrasive fill is missing.

Treads repaired with Stair Saver meet or exceed all codes and standards for coefficient of friction. The Stair Saver Epoxy Kit is for interior or exterior usage on various brands of nosing or tread and can be applied in less than two hours. Repaired treads are ready for foot traffic in just 24 hours.

Each Stair Saver Epoxy Kit contains all the materials needed to repair a 40-ft. section of a typical 3-in. nosing, including black abrasive non-slip media, a two-part epoxy, a 4-gal mixing bucket, stir sticks, towels, a rib cleaning tool to improve the aesthetic of the filled tread and a drill bit for mixing the kit.

“Now users can transform the empty nosings from trip hazards to true non-slip surfaces, as the newly repaired treads meet or exceed all codes and standards for coefficient of friction—no special tools or skills are required,” says Wooster Products research and development manager Matt Gray.

“Stair Saver repairs empty nosings and treads no matter who made the product initially.”

https://CONC.me/xhi4lztj

https://CONC.me/sb7hovmk

Hilti BIM-driven Integrated Project Solutions

Ricoh-Cupix Integration of RICOH THETA X Camera

Ricoh has announced new capabilities for the RICOH THETA X 360-degree camera. The company has partnered with Cupix to integrate and support CupixWorks and CupixVista with the RICOH THETA X, offering 3D spatial digital twin imaging solutions for professionals. By harnessing the synergies between Ricoh cameras and Cupix’s hardware, software and services, enterprises can anticipate a digital twin solution, even for megaprojects. A feature of the RICOH THETA X 360-degree camera is its integrated GPS technology, offering location and mapping capabilities. Additionally, its image quality, even in low light conditions, supports visualization. This technology has also paved the way for Cupix’s next-generation 3D dollhouse point clouds. https://CONC.me/bcfxgeg3

https://CONC.me/2g7qadgh

6 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

Salt Scaling is the Problem. is the Solution.

PoreShield™ is NOT a typical penetrating sealer. PoreShield™ makes the INSIDE of the concrete hydrophobic by creating a barrier in the pore network, preventing freeze/thaw deterioration and de-icing salt absorption.

Visit us at

From farm to infrastructure.

Learn more at PoreShield.com.

Booth S12552

SPOTLIGHT » BY MERINA SHRIVER

World of Concrete 2024 PREVIEW

The World of Concrete will celebrate its 50th year during the World of Concrete 2024 show.

There will be 1,332 exhibitors attending and these will be found both inside the Las Vegas Convention Center and outdoors.

World of Concrete

World of Concrete

W

orld of Concrete (WOC) is celebrating 50 years of its annual show with World of Concrete 2024.

Being the largest concrete tradeshow, WOC has a lot to offer this year. Here is a preview of a few products and events to expect this year at World of Concrete.

This year invites you to Take a Trip Down Memory Lane and celebrate 50 years of WOC. There will be countless events and exhibits displaying products and offering tips. There will be 1,332 exhibitors attending and these will be found both inside the Las Vegas Convention Center and outdoors. Alongside events and exhibits, you can find educational sessions, including seven sessions new to WOC this year.

World of Concrete 2024 exhibits will be open from January 23 to January 25, 9:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Education runs from January 22 to January 25, 8:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

VISIT US When exploring the show, make sure to stop by the IRONMARKETS booth and say hello! We will have a booth with not only Concrete Contractor magazine but also Equipment Today and Rental.

We’re thrilled to be attending the show for another year and we’re ready to chat when you drop in.

You can find us at the same booth as last year: C4137!

World of Concrete 2024 will be featuring many educational and interesting events. There will be indoor and outdoor events as well as meal-based forums and some highlighted education events. You can find more events and information on World of Concrete’s website. Here are a few events to look out for.

THE MIGHTIEST OF MASONS Spec Mix will be hosting an outdoor masonry challenge called Toughest Tender. The event is part of the four-part

World of Concrete features four different masonry challenges.

World of Concrete

8 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

Minnich Flex Shaft Vibrators: The Experts Choice for Solid Results

Minnich Flex Shaft Vibrators Built to exceed your expectations and outperform the competition. With results in mind, our vibrators are engineered for control and durability, ensuring a smooth and flawless pour every time. With more control over your results and a longer lifespan than other options on the market, our flex shaft concrete vibrators are the perfect choice for the professional looking to take their work to the next level.

SPOTLIGHT: WORLD OF CONCRETE 2024 PREVIEW CONTINUED ARTISTIC CONCRETE Inside, there is a new event being featured in 2024. The Decorative Concrete Experience is an interactive section where you can learn how to better navigate the decorative element of concrete design. This is a great opportunity for construction contractors to get a better understanding of decorative concrete and concrete trends in the industry. This event will be in South Hall during the show hours.

Sustainability plays a large role in what WOC tries to promote.

World of Concrete

Masonry Madness challenge. This challenge tests masons on their ability to build a bricklayer’s workstation quickly and strategically. At the end of the event, the tender with the fastest time wins a prize. This event will be on January 24 at 10:00 a.m. in the Bronze Lot. TRUCK TESTING The Trucks Get Tough Challenge, hosted by Western Star, allows attendees with current CDLs to choose a

truck and take it on the course. This is a great opportunity to try out different trucks and see how they feel before a purchase. At the end, you get a prize to take home. This event can be really fun for those of you who can drive large trucks. To participate, show up to the event during show hours any time from January 23 to January 25.

Check it out in the Bronze Lot.

Wafflemat by SmartSense Structural Systems Wafflemat is a foundation system for single and multi-family residential and light commercial structures built on expansive, rocky, compressible, or liquefiable soils. Wafflemat delivers significant cost savings by reducing soil prep, concrete, reinforcing steel, and building cycle time.

Find SmartSense Structural Systems at N1149

3D PRINTING CONSTRUCTION One of the new featured events at WOC 2024 is the 3D Printing Luncheon and Forum, hosted by World of Concrete 360. The event will address the roadblocks that contractors and construction companies are facing when trying to use 3D printing in the industry and possible solutions and quality standards that can be made for 3D Construction Printing. If you’re a construction contractor, this luncheon will give you a chance to toy around with the idea of 3D printing in construction and get a grasp on what the panelists think about it. This event will be on January 23 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Be sure to register for this luncheon now if you’re interested. There is a fee to attend.

PRINTED CONCRETE If the 3D Printing Luncheon and Forum caught your eye, then you’ll love Sika Corporation’s 3D Concrete Printing educational session. You can learn about the developments of 3D concrete printing and gain more information on the entire start-to-finish procedures. This session will also teach you about the materials and styles that go into the process. This event is scheduled for January 23, 1-3:30 p.m. Be sure to register for this event now if you’re interested. There is a fee to attend.

Image is not a representation of the Wafflemat system | @ShapikMedia - stock.adobe.com

10 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

BOOTH O31350

SPOTLIGHT: WORLD OF CONCRETE 2024 PREVIEW CONTINUED @Pink Badger - stock.adobe.com

The Brokk 200 Demolition Machine

Concrete Pipe Lifter, by Probst Handling Equipment

@Fernando Soares - stock.adobe.com

Mechanical pipe clamp designed to unload, transport, and install concrete pipe 16-48 in.

ID and a max weight of 9,900 lbs. Mechanical clamping (no hydraulics) holds the pipe securely, without any damage to the bell end, and allows accurate placement and joining of pipes without damage to the spigot. Labor is saved by eliminating at least one laborer topside for rigging and guiding pipe.

Find Probst at C3010

Packing the power of a 3-ton machine into a 2-ton package, the Brokk 200 will be highlighted, along with other remote-controlled demolition machine models, at World of Concrete 2024. The Brokk 200 comes equipped with Brokk’s signature SmartConcept technology for increased efficiency.

The 27.5-kilowatt machine operates tools with requirements typical of one weight class above. When paired with the Brokk BHB 305 breaker, the unit’s hitting power is increased by 40% delivering 450 foot-pounds (610 joules) with each blow of the 650-lb. hydraulic breaker. Find Brokk at C4005 and 032100.

12 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Crack Stitch, by Fortress Stabilization Systems Fortress has the solution for any type of concrete crack repair. The rapid installing, low-cost Crack Stitch is ideal for projects with small to mid-sized cracks and has a tensile strength of over 6,000 lbs. It installs just below the surface of the substrate, making it easy to hide behind a coating (which can be installed shortly after the stitches are installed). The Crack Stitch can be installed using an epoxy or cementitious mix.

Find Fortress Stabilization Systems at S13349

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

Big News From DEWALT Obsessed with how contractors work in the real world, DEWALT is continuing its relentless pursuit of total jobsite solutions for World of Concrete 2024.

Find DEWALT at O30958

Single Gang Barrier Wall Drill, by Minnich Mfg. Minnich Manufacturing’s Single Gang Barrier Wall Drill is a self-propelled, pneumatic drill designed to optimize safety during the process of securing concrete barrier walls. Simply align the drill steel through the pre-molded opening in the barrier wall, penetrate the sub-base, drop in the steel pin anchor and move to the next securing point.

Find Minnich at C4237

SUCCEEDING IN SUSTAINABILITY Master Builders Solution’s Meeting & Exceeding Sustainability Targets Using Admixture will highlight the ways that the levels of carbon in concrete mixtures can be reduced by using advanced mixture optimization. It will also discuss how to diminish concrete waste and be more sustainable. This event can be particularly interesting with recent developments in the Buy Clean initiative and the varying rules and regulations being put in place to try and encourage cleaner construction. This event will be on January 13 from 10:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. Be sure to register for this event now if you’re interested. There is a fee to attend.

Find more new and announcements online at http://CONC.me/WOC

OUR KIND OF PLAYGROUND

This is the natural habitat for Brokk’s compact giants.

With the perfect combination of power, operability and accessibility our demolition robots provide efficient solutions to increase profits.

See us at

Brokk Inc. | Monroe, WA | 1-360-794-1277 | info@brokkinc.com | www.brokk.com

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 13

SPOTLIGHT » BY JONATHAN KOZLOWSKI, EDITOR

Award Winning Concrete The winning projects and contractors of the ACI and ASCC DCC concrete project award programs.

A

s an international leader in concrete construction, everything the American Concrete Institute accomplishes is due to its volunteers, its contributors, and its donors. These individuals reconnect on a regular basis in countless committee meetings throughout the year and in bi-annual conventions in the Fall and Spring. ACI Spring 2024 is scheduled for March 24-28, in New Orleans and the ACI Fall 2024 Convention is scheduled for November 3-7, in Philadelphia.

The ACI 2023 Fall Convention was located in Boston, Massachusetts, from October 29 to November 2 and hosted by the ACI: New England Chapter. Sponsored by NUE, the ninth annual ACI Excellence in Concrete Construction Awards showcased dozens of innovative concrete projects from around the world. Additional sponsors included the ACI Foundation, ACI Georgia chapter, ACI Las Vegas chapter, ACI, Missouri chapter, ACI Rocky Mountain chapter, Baker Concrete Construction, Heidelberg Materials, Keystone Structural Concrete, and Trademark Concrete Systems.

Associate sponsors included ACI San Diego chapter and the Slag Cement Association.

OVERALL EXCELLENCE The “Overall Excellence” award was presented to Quay Quarter Tower; also receiving first place in the Repair and Restoration Structures category, pictured above.

Located in the Central Business District of Sydney, Australia, Quay Quarter Tower is the world’s tallest adaptive reuse project. Adaptive reuse refers to a transformation of use from a building’s original purpose while preserving its architectural and cultural heritage. In the case of Quay Quarter Tower, a 45-year-old concrete building was repurposed with partial demolition and the addition of new elements—expanding both the ground width and height of the original structure. The new upcycled tower is a 709-foot tall building using a mixture of material solutions that extend service life until 2070. The project overcame unprecedented structural engineering challenges with innovative

14 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

solutions that have set a new global standard for the effective conservation and lifetime extension of tall concrete buildings.

Through a rigorous assessment and verification process, this project is the world’s first example of the adaptive reuse of a concrete skyscraper.

• General Contractor: Multiplex Construction • Concrete Contractor: De Martin and Gasparini • Concrete Supplier: Boral Limited Decorative Concrete North Bend Torguson Skatepark, in North Bend, Washington — General and Concrete Contractor: Grindline Skateparks Inc., Concrete Supplier: Cadman Inc. Low-Rise Structures Bou You Rou, Sakai-shi, in Fukui, Japan — General and Concrete Contractor: Tanaka Kensetsu Co. Ltd., Concrete Supplier: Teramae Namacon Co., Ltd. High-Rise Structures Salesforce Tower Chicago, in Chicago, Illinois — General Contractor: Walsh Construction, Concrete Supplier: Prairie Materials Infrastructure I-74 Mississippi River Bridge, in Bettendorf, Iowa — River Bridge General Contractor and Concrete Contractor: Lunda Construction Co., Concrete Supplier: Hahn Ready Mix Flatwork Mountain Pass Lodge and Sliding Sports Facility, in Lake Placid, New York — General Contractor: Pike Construction Services, Concrete Contractor: Pike Construction Services (Structural Services), Concrete Supplier: Upstone Materials Inc., Placed Concrete: DJ Rossetti Inc., Admixture Supplier: GCP Applied Technologies

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

ASCC’S 2023 DECORATIVE CONCRETE PROJECT AWARD WINNERS The American Society of Concrete Contractors Decorative Concrete Council annually recognizes outstanding decorative concrete projects around the world. Entries are judged by a panel of industry professionals on aesthetics, craftsmanship, functionality, creativity, and safety. The WOW! Award is given to the project deemed by the judges to be the best of the best.

Close to 100 submittals were sent in. Entries were judged by Jeff Herschberger of Deco-CRETE Supply, Karen Keys of The Art of Concrete, Rock Lobdell of Concrete Mystique Engraving, and Pablo Aviles of Bomanite of Mexico.

THE WOW! AWARD The annual WOW! Award is given to the project the judges deemed as the overall winner of all awards submitted. This year’s WOW! Awards went to Bomanite of Southeast Asia, out of Manila, Philippines for their work on the Manila Zoo GFRC Project in Manila, Philippines. All panels were created offsite and then transported and colored onsite. Fabrication work done was accomplished inside the zoo complex. The contractor used silicon molds to create a natural bamboo effect on the panels.

The resulting GFRC precast installation made a durable, naturallooking finish facade installation that covered most of the animal enclosures, fences, gates, and pedestrian areas.

• Architectural Cast-in-Place Concrete Structures (Projects Over 5,000 sq. ft.): T.B. Penick and Sons for the Presidio Tunnel Tops, San Francisco, California • Cast-in-Place Special Finishes (Projects Over 5,000 sq. ft.): Universal Creative for Transformers Metrobase at Universal Bejing Resort, Bejing, China • Cast-in-Place Special Finishes (Projects Under 5,000 sq.ft.): Colorado Hardscapes for the Republic Plaza, Denver, Colorado • Cast-in-Place Stamped Finishes (Projects Over 5,000 sq.ft.): Universal Creative for the Jurassic World Isla Nublar at Universal Bejing Resort, Bejing, China • Cast-in-Place Stamped Finishes (Projects Under 5,000 sq.ft.): Captivating Concrete for the Harras Project, Aus Gres, Michigan • Cementitious Overlays (Projects Over 5,000 sq.ft.): Universal Creative for the Kung Fu Panda Land of Awesomeness at Universal Bejing Resort, Bejing, China • Cementitious Overlays (Projects Under 5,000 sq.ft.): Sundeck National Accounts for the Specialty Shops at Southpark, Charlotte, North Carolina • Concrete Artistry (Projects Over 5,000 sq.ft.): Orangestone Construction Technology for The Shanghai Road Underpass Art Concrete Paving Project, Dalian City, China • Concrete Artistry (Projects Under 5,000 sq.ft.): T.B. Penick & Sons for the Colone Hoose Elementary School, Normal, Illinois • Countertops, Furniture & Firepits: T.B. Penick & Sons for Webster 11, Normal, Illinois • Decorative Resinous Coatings (Projects Over 5,000 sq. ft.): Performance Concrete Solutions for the Kidron Fire Station,

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

Kidron, Ohio • Decorative Resinous The project was both Coatings (Projects Under 5,000 sq. ft.): innovative and creative, Decorative Concrete of including adaptive reuse Virginia for the Calvary Chapel of Lynchburg, of an existing high-rise Lynchburg, Virginia building,” • Multiple Applications (Projects Over 5,000 sq.ft.): Orcutt / Wilson “The project team of Architecture for the Middle Tennessee architects, engineers, State University and contractors adSchool of Concrete and Construction dressed many unique Management, challenges to deliver a Murfreesboro, Tennessee • Multiple Applications world-class sustainable (Projects Under 5,000 building. sq.ft.): Wicked Kolors for the Never Alone Clubhouse Douglasville, ACI Overall Excellence Georgia • Polished Concrete & judge, Ronald G. Burg Overlays (Projects Over 5,000 sq. ft.): Ryerson Concrete LLC for The New American Home 2023, Las Vegas, Nevada • Polished Concrete & Overlays (Projects Under 5,000 sq. ft.): Musselman & Hall for the Mid-Continent Public Library Green Hills, Kansas City, Missouri • Project Video: Trademark Concrete Systems for The Grand LA, Camarillo, California • Stains & Dyes (Projects Over 5,000 sq.ft.): FST Design Build Concrete Inc. for the New Google World Headquarters, Mountain View, California • Stains & Dyes (Projects Under 5,000 sq.ft.): Captivating Concrete, The Broken Window House, Michigan (city unknown) • Vertical/Facades (Projects Over 5,000 sq.ft.): Trademark Concrete Systems for the 10 West Walnut & AMU Old Pasadena, Pasadena, California • Vertical/Facades (Projects Under 5,000 sq.ft.): Bomanite of Southeast Asia for the Manilla Zoo GFRC, Manilla, Philippines Congratulations to them all!

Due to space availability, Concrete Contractor was only able to include a limited amount of detail and first-place winners.

Additional details and second-place projects on the ACI awards can be found at Concrete.org; more on the DCC awards can be found at ascconline.org. Entries for the 2024 ACI Excellence in Concrete Construction Awards are being accepted now through April 29, 2024.

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 15

FLOATS & HAND TROWELS The Orange Thunder Walking Float with Ultra Twist Bracket by Kraft Tool Co.

MBW’s BullVibe Vibratory Bull Float

Generally, a contractor will need a vibratory bull float in emergency situations (concrete setting up too quickly, cold joints, a second ready mix truck not showing up on time). Vibratory energy will be required to blend in the concrete, and to bring the cream back up to the top of the slab. These are great application examples in which a contractor can use the BullVibe.

• Any Milwaukee M18 REDLITHIUM battery can be used and using a smaller battery will not affect the performance.

• Unit is a sealed system so no maintenance/ greasing is required and it’s protected from concrete buildupin crucial areas • The BullVibe has an on/off switch. The vibratory output is adjustable and can be locked in position.

• LED lights provide visibility in dark work areas such as a basement • Poles and floats are sold separately. The BullVibe will be compatible with the following manufacturers’ poles and floats: Marshalltown, Kraft, Roseburrough Tool, and Bon Tool. Float hardware sold separately.

Kraft Tool expanded its KO-20 blade material to include the Orange Thunder Walking Float with Ultra Twist Bracket. The 36-in. by 3-1/2-in. blade has rounded ends and broken-in edges for floating without gouging. The walking float features an aluminum bar down the middle of the blade to provide reinforced strength. Topped with the unique Ultra Twist Bracket provides a full 360 degrees of rotation to work from any angle. Its large range of motion is great for hard-to-reach places and working around obstructions. The bracket fits 1 3/8 in. or 1 3/4 in. button bull float handles.

The Orange Thunder line is made of highperforming KO-20 engineered material which was developed with the concrete finisher in mind. These impact resistant tools are a lighter, longer-wearing alternative to aluminum, canvas-resin, magnesium, steel, and wood. The KO-20 blade material increases the tools’ ability to work on rough surfaces faster, bringing up bleed water quicker and leaving concrete surfaces open longer. A low absorption rate means water and chemicals won’t break down or weaken the material. https://CONC.me/djyfcv

A Complete Kit of Gator Tools by Kraft Tool Company

The compact design of the Gator Tools Quick Clasp Float Case allows the user to easily carry a float, tilt bracket, and four 6 ft. aluminum handles.

Users can choose from a GatorLoy round end bull float, square end bull float, or dual edge channel float. The durable GatorLoy float blades are made from our unique aluminum alloy. Each complete case includes the Gator Glide Adjustable Leveling Bracket (GF10330) and features a cut-out to allow all Gator Tools and Kraft Tool brackets to fit. Both 1 3/8 in. and 1 3/4 in. diameter aluminum powdercoated yellow handles are available. All tools fit in the heavy-duty PVC plastic carrying case for ease in transport. Sturdy steel clasps offer a secure closure and a comfortable nylon shoulder strap for easy carrying. The kit comes available in 26 options. https://CONC.me/91rftt

https://CONC.me/1p2ppw

MARSHALLTOWN’s NXT PHASE Fresno Finisher’s Tote Kit

Conveniently carry your concrete finishing tools in the MARSHALLTOWN X Superior Innovations NXT PHASE Collection Fresno Finisher’s Tote. Included in this kit are 4 Octagon Swaged Handles with a 1 3/4-in. diameter insert, the new 7 by 48 in. Fresno with the QAS Bracket, and the Gen3 MagVibe Package which includes the Pro Tilt. With an open-ended bracket window and outside cinching straps, this tote easily holds the included tools plus more. The new 7 in. wide Fresno included is made from high-quality blue steel and is best used to rapidly finish concrete surfaces after floating. It has a wide blade design with a round end perfect for finishing closer to walls and obstructions without bracket interference. https://CONC.me/tf06wv

16 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

Valtec OmniPoly Dynamic Flex Poly Trowel Blade

Valtec launched its patented OmniPoly Dynamic Flex Poly Power Trowel Blade. This product is for use on power trowels for controlling dark burnish marks on new concrete floor installations. OmniPoly material produces a uniform burnish-mark free finish and has flexible ends that reduce trowel marks. The blades have a flexible finishing edge for operation in early finishing and a flush bottom surface design helps eliminates build-up and reduces scratches. https://CONC.me/trtqoam0

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

Kipper Crete’s Newly Patented Kipper 11.5“Has The Edge” Over The 24” Edger!

I wanted to take this opportunity to talk about a great new tool that we have been incorporating into our finishing process, but first a little about me.

My name is Leroy Johnson, I am the Vice President of PHAZE Concrete. I have been an ACI certified finisher for over 25 years have been doing some form of concrete for most of those years, but the things I’ve enjoyed most are large slabs and trying to improve the quality of them. We have a great relationship with SSI and this has given us an edge on improving our techniques and keeping us on the leading edge of finishing techniques. One of the problems we all have with giving a high quality SOG is the edge of adjoining slabs. Some people call it a construction joint. This is a problematic area that takes a highly skilled finisher to get it burned in and give it a nice look when burnished and polished.

This brings me to the first time we tried the “Kipper Crete Tool.” It was on a FedEx project which had 1500’ of trench drains to finish up to and around, so I thought I would give this tool a shot. And yes, I did it myself so if it did not work no one would know the difference and no one is going to make fun of the VP of operations. So the first time I brought this tool out, the guys thought I had lost my mind, but I got on the 10’ pan and went out to a drain and started running it up the length of the drain. It worked so well that EVERYONE took notice, and the rest is history! Before that job was done, I had 2 more tools and just about every guy using them, even the oldest finisher • • • • • • • •

on the crew (which is a story in itself).

JUST AMAZING! That is the thought that went through my mind and I wanted to know if I could use this tool on a high profile project for the construction joints to help with the color problem on the edges. So I took it to the Costco we were starting in Billings Montana.

We put it to the test again. We used the Kipper on all of the construction joints and never put a 2’ power trowel on the WHOLE building with BETTER results. Well, to make a long story short, we have been told by the Costco construction manager that it’s one of the best slabs that he’s seen in a long time. We had NO punch list on this project!!! Amazing for a Costco.

We have started having this fantastic tool in our tool trailers and now the floor polishing division is beginning to use it. We have 400 field employees as of today and I believe with the Kipper we can have more people trained on a finishing technique that would normally take someone years to reach the same quality of finishing without it.

Reduces fatigue and labor costs Lightweight at less than 16lbs.

Compatible with most Battery powered or corded 1/2” variable speed-controlled drills The New bumper guard eliminates bouncing off of objects being finished around.

Adjustable 36” Extension New Slotted finishing blades for adjusting in and out for closer finishes.

Finishes edges better than any 24” edger Seamless on the spot finishing

www.kippercrete.com | 304.856.2630

MENTION THIS AD when calling to place an order for The Kipper KPR-11.5” finishing package and receive a FREE SET OF REPLACEMENT BLADES.

COVER STORY

How To Get Started With Color Hardener Stand out from the crowd with this advice on using a color hardener on your next stamped concrete job.

W

hen I started my journey in stamped concrete, things in the industry were starting to change. More and more contractors were starting to offer stamped concrete, and manufacturers needed to respond.

More stamped concrete on the ground meant the need for products and supplies was growing fast. Not only did manufacturers need upscale production, but they had the opportunity to develop new technologies.

One of the biggest things that was changing was the coloring systems. Integral color had been around for almost 100 years at this point, but color hardener was still the go-to for stamped concrete projects. I remember hearing things like “leave stamped concrete to pros” or “stamped concrete is too complicated.” While those statements did have some truth to them, the hardest part of the whole thing was using color hardener. After getting the concrete on the ground, you had to completely color the slab by hand before you could start finishing and stamping. With the onslaught of new installers, something had to change. The industry started to trend toward integral color. More manufacturers got into the color game, and the newer liquid dispersion systems made things easier. By

All images provided by Deco-CRETE Supply

the time we hit the teens, integral color was everywhere. You would hear things like, “You still use color hardener? Get with times” or “No one uses color hardener anymore.”

Fast forward to today, and things have started to come full circle. Color hardener is not just old technology. It’s known as an advanced technique for stamped concrete. There are countless stamped concrete contractors but the ones that use color hardener seem to stand out from the crowd.

Learning to use color hardener properly is one of the biggest steps you can take to elevate your stamped concrete work to the next level. It might seem old school, but there are plenty of reasons that most of the top contractors in the industry still use it today.

BENEFITS OF COLOR HARDENER Durability is generally priority number one for both the contractor and end user. Due to the color hardener’s high concentration of portland cement and sand, the surface strength of color-hardened concrete can cure out to over 8,000 PSI, making it almost double compared to standard concrete.

Color-hardened concrete also holds up to salt or other winter weather damage much better Deco-CRETE Supply

18 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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than standard or integrally colored concrete. This reason alone makes it an easy decision for high-end projects in the northern part of the country.

The next thing would be color options and consistency. Color hardeners create a wide variety of colors, including lighter and darker shades, that would not even be possible with integral color. You can also use mutable colors on the same slab, creating a marbled effect that’ll give your stamped concrete an even more realistic look.

Most manufacturers offer 40 standard colors, usually all at the same price. Integral color can vary up to $75 dollars per yard, depending on the color. With color hardener, the customer can pick any color they want, and you won’t have to adjust for the price. Integral color can also be problematic when making multiple pours. Great care is required to ensure color consistency from slab to slab. When using color hardener, the color is in the bucket, not in the truck. As long you cast the proper amount on the slab, the color is consistent every time.

Another benefit is crisp, clean impressions. All that extra cement and sand have another benefit beyond durability. It also adds density to the surface, and the buttery smooth paste just trowels out nicer.

The denser, smoother surface leads to crisper impressions with less grain and fuzz.

The fact that you are only coloring the surface of the concrete means that you can easily separate multiple colors on the same pour.

Forming up borders and bands separately is not required. You can do it all monolithically from the same concrete truck without any extra forming.

Fixing problems and addressing details is one of the things that separates high-end contractors from everyone else. Color hardener mixed with water makes a slurry that is incredibly helpful in fixing various problems. Any blow-outs around grout lines, excessive surface cracking, or stone pop-outs are easily repaired with color hardener slurry. The best thing is you’ll make the slurry out of the same bucket of color you used to color the slab, so it’ll match every time.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

This leads to one last point. Color hardener makes it possible to create the highest-end of stamped concrete steps, and it’s easier. Color hardener slurry works excellent for finishing risers in a controlled environment. You don’t have to worry about finishing them while you’re stamping; it could be done later that day or at any point before applying the sealer. It could be a broken rock face, or you can put the slurry on thick enough to texture it. Like all the stuff we’ve talked about so far, this does require some technique. Color hardener might make stamped concrete steps less stressful, but it’s certainly not the easiest way of coloring the concrete.

GETTING STARTED Using color hardener can be quite challenging in the beginning.

It takes more time and manpower, it’s dusty, and there are limitations on how far you can throw it. Trying to use color hardener for the first time on an 800sq/ft job will not only be stressful, but it might even cause you to never want to use it again. You won’t

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CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 19

COVER STORY CONTINUED become a pro at throwing color hardener by just reading an article, but there are a few things that’ll make it easier to get started.

Tools can make or break any job, so set yourself up for success.

A resin or wooden bull float always works better than magnesium for floating in the color hardener. It helps keep the surface open longer to accept the color and creates more friction to work the hardener into the concrete. Extra weight can also be crucial when floating in the hardener. Forming stakes or small bricks can be used in a pinch, but several tool manufacturers offer pre-made weights that fit right on your bull float. These weights also come in handy when finishing the concrete with a Fresno before stamping.

I can’t remember very many jobs where weights stayed in the tool trailer.

Timing is everything in decorative concrete, and you’ll only have a short amount of time to get the concrete colored, so start working on it right away. This is not the time to take a break or catch up on the phone calls you missed during the pour. Getting behind on the coloring will cause you to get behind on the stamping. In most cases, someone needs to start floating and throwing color hardener before the concrete is even all on the ground. If you need three guys to pour the concrete, you’ll need a fourth just to float and throw the color hardener.

Becoming proficient at throwing color hardener does take some time. Whether you throw it by hand or use a bucket lid as a tool, your technique will develop with every job. The bucket lid is a great way to get started, and it does a nice job of spreading the color out on its own. When throwing by the handful, just make sure to open your hand as you throw so it doesn’t all end up in one spot. Whatever method you use, always start throwing to the farthest point

20 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

and work your way back. An experienced installer can throw color hardener 20-25 ft., but in the beginning, plan your pours out strategically so you don’t have to throw more than 12-15 ft. Throwing enough color on the first pass is also crucial, as initial coverage can be deceiving; even though it seems to cover the all the gray, once you float it in, additional color will still be needed.

The best results are achieved with a two-pass approach, using 70% of the color on the first pass and the remaining 30% on the second.

Once it’s on the surface, the color hardener needs some time to absorb moisture from the concrete. When you first throw the hardener, it looks dry, and the color will seem lighter than expected. Trying to work it in at this point simply won’t work. Once the color has darkened and it looks wet, you can go ahead and work it in. The exact amount of time this takes can vary, but 5-10 minutes is a good average.

In cooler weather, it’s a good idea to let it sit even longer so you don’t end up working it in too deep and lose some of the color.

Just like anything in decorative concrete, things seem to change from day to day based on sun, wind, temperature, and the concrete itself. Sometimes, there’s plenty of moisture in concrete, but other days, you need to add something extra to help work in the hardener. The use of a finishing aid will help with this problem. When used correctly, it will not only give you some extra moisture when you need it, but it’ll also help reduce surface crusting.

If color hardener is something you’re considering, take it slow. Maybe attend a training class on color hardener. Maybe

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COVER STORY CONTINUED

you have a little 300-400sq/ft foot job coming up that you can try it on.

You can still run integral color just like you normally would. Use a color hardener that’s close to the integral color; that way, you won’t have to worry about completely coloring the slab. If you only get one pass of hardener thrown and it’s time to start finishing, it’s no big deal. The point is that you’ll get experience throwing and floating in the hardener but won’t have to stress about coloring 100% of the slab. After that, start working your way up in size, and eventually, just leave out the integral color altogether.

All in all, color hardener creates the most high-end and longest-lasting stamped concrete. It’s hard work and messy, and you’ll have to haul a bunch of heavy buckets to the job. It’s not for everyone, but for those who are willing to deal with the challenges, color hardener will open up a new level of quality and beauty for their stamped concrete projects.

Jeff Hershberger is the training and store expansion lead for Deco-CRETE Supply.

Contact them if you need any advice on color hardener or anything else related to stamped concrete.

Discover the differences between color harener vs integral color and other how-to videos from Deco-CRETE Supply.

Find the article online at http://CONC.me/cqofuvls

22 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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Handle any job with the Simpson Strong-Tie® 3G family of epoxy and hybrid acrylic anchoring adhesives. Code listed for cracked and uncracked concrete, they're easy to install and provide a high-strength hold. SET-3G™ epoxy is our most versatile adhesive with ultimate bond strength for heavy-duty, structural work. Choose ET-3G™ epoxy for general rebar doweling and threaded rod. For a fast-cure option, AT-3G™ hybrid acrylic allows same-day bolt-up in a wide range of temperatures, including extreme cold. Stocked nationwide at local retailers, our adhesives are backed by expert service and technical support.

To learn more about our entire line of 3G adhesive anchors, installation tools and accessories, visit go.strongtie.com/3G or call (800) 999-5099.

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CONCRETE GRINDERS & POLISHERS

Top 5 Trends In Concrete Flooring Contractors should understand and embrace these five trends in concrete flooring to offer homeowners more than a functional flooring solution. @bannafarsai - stock.adobe.com

R

egarding flooring options, homeowners increasingly turn to materials beyond conventional choices. Once associated primarily with industrial spaces, concrete flooring has emerged as a favorite among homeowners seeking durability, versatility, and aesthetic allure. The appeal of concrete lies not only in its innate strength but also in the potential it offers for interior design.

As contractors, understanding the driving factors behind homeowners’ growing inclination toward concrete flooring is pivotal to catering to their evolving preferences. By staying attuned to these trends, you can give homeowners the insight they need to make informed choices while highlighting the distinctive charm that concrete flooring brings to contemporary living spaces.

POLISHED ELEGANCE In contemporary interior design, polished concrete flooring is a testament to the marriage of form and function. This trend has swiftly risen to prominence, captivating homeowners with its seamless blend of sleek aesthetics and enduring practicality. Polished concrete’s allure exceeds its pristine appearance—it brings multifaceted benefits.

Polished concrete flooring has the remarkable ability to amplify the brightness of a room when the sun hits it. The surface’s reflective quality transforms interior spaces, making them appear larger and more spacious than before. Homeowners like the clean, sophisticated look that polished concrete lends to any room, effortlessly adapting to many design styles.

Yet, it’s not just its visual appeal that sets polished concrete apart. It’s also its ability to withstand the test of time. The durability of concrete meets the refinement of a polished finish, resulting in a flooring solution that can weather the demands of daily life while maintaining its striking appearance. For homeowners seeking a balance between elegance and practicality, polished concrete emerges as an unrivaled choice.

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@Richard Nantais - stock.adobe.com

STAMPED IMPRESSIONS Stamped impressions have emerged as an artful approach that seamlessly bridges the gap between functionality and aesthetics. This captivating trend allows homeowners to infuse their living spaces with the charm of more expensive materials while reaping the benefits of concrete’s resilience and adaptability.

The concept behind stamped concrete is as ingenious as it is visually striking. Through carefully crafted molds and patterns, contractors can imprint intricate designs onto the concrete surface, replicating stone, brick, or wood textures. This technique enables homeowners to achieve the desired look without the inherent drawbacks of those materials, such as maintenance challenges or susceptibility to wear and tear.

One of the remarkable aspects of stamped concrete is its sheer versatility. Homeowners can select patterns, from timeless herringbone to detailed floral motifs. This customization doesn’t just boost the space’s visual appeal, but also gives homeowners the authority to establish a genuinely distinct atmosphere that mirrors their preferences, all without stretching their budget.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

STENCILED CREATIVITY Stenciled concrete has gained traction as a unique way for homeowners to infuse their living spaces with personalized designs and intricate motifs, turning floors into captivating canvases that reflect their individuality.

Stenciled concrete opens possibilities, allowing homeowners to experiment with patterns, shapes, and themes. From geometric designs that exude modern minimalism to nature-inspired elements that bring the outdoors inside, stenciled concrete empowers homeowners to create floors as distinct as their personalities.

The process involves using stencils as templates to apply intricate designs onto the concrete surface. This technique combines the durability of concrete with the finesse of handcrafted artistry, resulting in visually striking floors uniquely tailored to the space they inhabit.

Whether homeowners seek to add a touch of elegance or a burst of playfulness, stenciled concrete provides the means to achieve their desired atmosphere.

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CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 25

CONCRETE GRINDERS & POLISHERS COLORS THAT POP Concrete flooring no longer needs to adhere to the grayscale palette from times before. A vibrant evolution has taken center stage in interior design, as homeowners increasingly gravitate towards concrete floors adorned with a rich spectrum of colors. This trend redefines the perception of concrete and offers homeowners an avenue to infuse their living spaces with a burst of personality and style.

The allure of vibrant colors lies in their transformative power. A well-chosen color can evoke emotions, set a tone, and create a dynamic focal point within a room. Homeowners are no longer limited to traditional hues. They can now explore many options, from subtle pastels that add a touch of elegance to bold and vivid shades that make a statement.

Contractors play a pivotal role in guiding homeowners through the world of colorful concrete. By introducing homeowners to the wide range of pigments and dyes available, contractors can help them make informed decisions that align with their design visions. Additionally, emphasizing the longevity and versatility of colored concrete is essential. Unlike traditional flooring materials that may fade or wear over time, the vibrant hues of colored concrete are designed to last, ensuring that homeowners can enjoy their chosen colors for years.

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PRO-PLUS® Strength 1.5 times Stronger 35% greater Compressive Strength 80% greater Flexural Strength 78% greater Tensile Strength PRO-PLUS® W eight 70% Lighter PRO-PLUS® Thermal E xpansion 1.7 times less 800.36.JOSAM | www.josam.com

26 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

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STYLISH DIVERSITY Concrete flooring has transcended its utilitarian roots to embrace an array of styles that cater to homeowners’ diverse tastes and preferences. This trend emphasizes the adaptability of concrete as a canvas for creative expression, allowing homeowners to choose a flooring style that seamlessly harmonizes with their desired ambiance.

From the rustic allure of industrial designs to the clean lines of contemporary aesthetics, concrete flooring can effortlessly align with various interior themes. This diversity is a testament to the versatility of concrete, as it takes on different textures, finishes, and treatments to bring a distinct character to each space.

Contractors play a pivotal role in helping homeowners navigate this rich landscape of styles.

By discussing the various textures and finishes available, contractors can provide insight into how different styles can impact a room’s atmosphere.

Furthermore, contractors should highlight the durability and resilience of concrete across these styles, ensuring that homeowners recognize the

practical benefits that come hand-in-hand with its aesthetic appeal.

As contractors, understanding and embracing these five trends in concrete flooring allows you to offer homeowners more than a functional flooring solution. You’re providing them with the means to create spaces that reflect their personalities, enhance their lifestyles, and withstand the tests of time. From the polished elegance that brings sophistication to any room to the stamped impressions that evoke the beauty of premium materials, the stenciled creativity that turns floors into art, the colors that infuse energy and character, and the stylish diversity that caters to every design inclination—each trend embodies the unique charm of concrete.

Rotem Eylor, CEO of Republic Floor is a seasoned flooring and design expert with a decade-long journey in reshaping interiors and industry standards.

Find this article online at http://CONC.me/wb2pzwgs

SEE US AT

WITH BROKK

Distributed by: Brokk Inc. | Monroe, WA | 1-360-794-1277 | info@brokkinc.com | www.brokk.com

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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 27

CONCRETE GRINDERS & POLISHERS

Working With Asbestos How to approach floor preparation work in buildings with asbestos.

A

ccording to a 1988 study by the EPA, around 20% of public and commercial buildings in the US still contained some asbestos material, either in insulation, plaster material for acoustics, or in flooring. Here are some options contractors can consider when dealing with an asbestos-containing floor.

Asbestos is a general name given to naturally occurring silicate materials composed of long, thin fibers. The material is highly resistant to fire, has excellent insulating properties and the structure of its fibers make it strong, durable, and flexible. These qualities, as well as its cost-effectiveness, made asbestos a popular material in construction applications.

When working in buildings constructed before regulations limiting the use of asbestos, contractors should be careful to ensure asbestos is managed properly. This is because when asbestos is damaged, the small fibers released can be inhaled and lead to serious health problems, such as asbestosis or mesothelioma.

REVIEWING THE FLOOR Before starting any floor preparation job, contractors should survey the site to establish the type of covering they must remove, the condition of the slab or subfloor, and whether the desired new covering will meet the customer’s expectations.

During this initial stage, the existing floor covering and when it was manufactured could quickly indicate the presence of asbestos. Beginning in the 1920’s up to the 1980’s, manufacturers used asbestos in materials such as

vinyl composition tile (VCT). These floor coverings were often popular in large commercial buildings such as supermarkets because they were longlasting and easy to maintain. A range of other building materials manufactured before the 80s could potentially contain asbestos, and it is not always obvious from the initial assessment. When planning work in older buildings, contractors should liaise with the facilities manager before arriving on site to request an asbestos management survey from an expert.

DECISIONS, DECISIONS When preparing a floor that contains materials with asbestos, inform your customer of two choices: remove it or cover it. If the customer chooses to have the asbestos removed, this must be performed by an asbestos mitigation company that specializes in containment or removal and not the flooring contractor. A specialist team will know the ins and outs of the protective measures such as securing the room to seal the space, using specialized equipment to remove the asbestos, and using high powered vacuums and abatement equipment to remove related debris. Once the asbestos has been fully removed, contractors can prepare the concrete substrate and lay the new covering as normal.

While this approach effectively removes a potentially dangerous material, the contractor will need to manage customer expectations. Asbestos removal can be time-consuming and costly—also, the removed material may also go to landfill, moving the problem elsewhere.

28 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

In most floor preparation cases, it is best practice to remove any existing floor material before laying new a covering. However, if the existing floor contains asbestos, the risks can outweigh the benefits. Additionally, covering asbestos-containing floor material is typically a more cost-effective alternative to asbestos removal, and there is no legal obligation to remove it.

This approach involves encapsulating the existing VCT by pouring a layer of cementitious material around 2-2.5 in. (50-75 mm) over the existing floor, to create a new substrate, concealing the asbestos containing material and preventing the release of dangerous fibers into the air. To ensure they follow best practice, contractors can consult with asbestos mitigation experts for support.

Once the new layer is set, contractors can grind and polish the floor ready for a new covering. Just like any grinding application, contractors should take the time to select the right tooling to achieve the required concrete surface profile (CSP) for the new covering.

This will still deliver a durable, low maintenance flooring option that could be more cost effective and sustainable for the facility.

The prevalence of asbestos in 20% of public and commercial buildings in the US means it is important that all flooring contractors understand the risks associated with asbestos, and best practice for minimizing them.

Jason McWillaims is a regional sales manager and surface preparation expert at National Flooring Equipment.

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

NEW PRODUCTS

BonWay Decorative Concrete Border Kits and Mat Set

The BonWay division of Bon Tool Co. has expanded its decorative concrete product line with four new Decorative Concrete Border Kits and a 4-piece Border Stamp Set. These new border imprinting tools provide alternatives to the urethane border mats already available from Bon. • The Border Kits each include a Stamping Roller and a matching Border Mat to quickly and easily install patterned borders.

• The rollers are 8 or 9 in. wide and offer a simple way to incorporated linear features to decorative concrete jobs and provide a custom look even for curved areas.

• With the rollers, borders can be rolled out by one person, saving time and money.

• Four border patterns are available: 8 in. Cut Slate; 8 in. Worn Brick; 9 in. Old World Soldier; 9 in. Old Stone Tile.

• The rollers are equipped with brackets that attach to threaded Bull Float Handles (Bon Part #12-115).

• Bon’s new Border Stamp Set is available in the classic and popular Worn Brick Soldier Course pattern.

• The set of 4 mats is each sized 25 in. by 8 in., and stamps the exact same pattern.

• Three of the mats are standard rigid and one “floppy” in the set is more flexible for easier use against obstacles. https://CONC.me/ddyp9w

Proline’s Magnetic Concrete Stamps

PECORA DECK COATING SYSTEMS PROTECTION AGAINST THE ELEMENTS

Pecora-Deck 800 & HB1000 traffic coating systems prevent surface degradation caused by traffic abrasion & the destructive forces of the elements by delivering durable protection to wearing surfaces like concrete & plywood.

Whether for restoration or new construction, protect your investment with the Pecora-Deck system that fits your project.

Featuring magnets to link the tools perfectly aligning the grout lines, Proline’s SPS system is the culmination of studying and developing for the decorative concrete industry for over 30 years. Once concrete contractors stamp with the Magnetic Seamless Pattern Stamp, they will experience first-hand the benefits it has to offer, no double joints, seamless transition, reinforced composite design, tougher tool with high flexibility, lightweight for less fatigue, no joint squeeze-out and over 4X the coverage of traditional tool.

Design Options • Inca Flagstone • Appian Random Cobble • Appian Running Cobble • Blue Ridge Large Ashlar Hammered Edge • Boston Herringbone Brick • Boston Running Board Brick • Carmel Bluestone Ashlar • Chesapeake Random Stone • Monterey Ashlar • Napa Random Stone • Pocono Bluestone Large Ashlar • Sausalito • Sedona Flag Stone https://CONC.me/nncynv

FIND OUT MORE: PECORA.COM

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7

POWER CURBERS

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STAMPING & STENCILING

Walttools BC Decorative Concrete Stamps •

• • • • •

The BC line is a new line of stamps that feature textures and stones designed to complement and improve the look of three Brickform stamp patterns by mixing up the sizing and pattern look.

Patterns include Ashlar Cut Slate, the Random Stone and the London Cobble Custom made from handpicked, chiseled and formatted stones Reduces repetition and likelihood of finding a “pattern” to the project Can also be used alone as a standard stamp set BC Ashler and Random each exhibit three different patterns, BC Cobble is one compatible stamp mat

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Cantilever Stepliner from Brickform

Designed for cast concrete stairs, this tool has a rough, natural stone face with a dramatic cantilever that continues to additional stone texture on the riser. Designed for greater ease of use, this tool comes in a single piece, meaning less work and less difficulty for installers. The Cantilever Stepliner from Brickform was designed to be lightweight, flexible, easy to install, as well as durable and reusable. Tool dimensions are: 7.125 in. by 8 ft. with an optional corner piece: 2 in. by 2 in. by 3 in. https://CONC.me/aaw1pq

32 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

2023

Presenting the 2023 Best Contractors to Work for in Construction

CONTRACTORS TO WORK FOR IN

CONSTRUCTION

Solving the Workforce Challenge Starts with Great Employers

Recruiting and retaining workers in the construction industry is paramount as the industry grapples with increasing labor shortages. There are many gimmicks, tips and life hacks out there promising to help construction companies attract, hire and keep workers. Successful construction companies know solving the workforce challenge starts with great employers.

To recognize those companies, the staff of Equipment Today, Asphalt Contractor, Concrete Contractor, Pavement Maintenance & Reconstruction, and their digital hub ForConstructionPros.com, hosted the Best Contractors to Work For recognition program, a research-driven analysis that examines a company’s practices, programs and benefits and surveys its employees for their perspective.

To be considered, employers needed to register, while employees filled out surveys about what it’s like to work for their boss. Entry forms and surveys were handled by the Best Companies Group, which analyzed the data and provided an actionable insights report that companies can use to improve employee recruitment and retention.

Want to be considered for the 2024 Best Contractors to Work For? Please contact Emily Leising at: ELeising@Iron.Markets

★ After a few months of tallying and analysis, the results are in.

Here are the 2023 Best Contractors to Work For in Construction: Winners include, in alphabetical order (company name, number of employees, headquarters): A&A Paving Contractors, 19, Roselle, IL

Emerald Construction Co., 27, Richmond, VA

PBS Contractors, 34, Naples, FL

ACE Construction Services, 53, Scarborough, ME

Foresight Construction Group, Inc., 42, Gainesville, FL

Redmond, 47, Chicago, IL

AGUA TRUCKS, 27, El Mirage, AZ

Fessler & Bowman, Inc., 971, Charlotte, NC

Stronghold Engineering, Inc., 141, Perris, CA

Alpha Structural, Inc., 134, Sunland, CA

Kent Design Build, 86, Mandeville, LA

The Garrett Companies, 245, Greenwood, IN

C.W. Driver Companies, 327, Pasadena, CA

Landis Construction, 61, Mandeville, LA

The Hayner Hoyt Corporation, 150, Syracuse, NY

Diamond Surface, Inc., 83, Rogers, MN

Loven Contracting, 48, Flagstaff, AZ

The Pavement Group, Inc, 25, Wexford, PA

DP Electric, Inc., 654, Tempe, AZ

Morrey’s Contracting, 39, Detroit, MI

The Surface Masters, Inc., 50, Marietta, GA

Please join us in congratulating these leading employers!

FORM YOUR BUSINESS

The AI Advantage One of the areas that has seen the greatest AI-powered innovation has been construction scheduling.

Here’s how self-performing concrete contractors can benefit.

A

ccording to the Construction Financial Management Association, general contractors’ average pre-tax net profit is between 1.4 and 2.4%.

But self-performing concrete contractors have an opportunity to surpass the often-slim margins that are too common in the construction business. Why? Because they own their equipment and control their labor. The mixers and polishers are theirs, for example. The formwork fabricators and finishers work for them. If these specialty contractors can run their projects efficiently and maximize the use of their assets, then they can deliver unmatchable financial returns.

How can such contractors optimize for efficiency? Now is the time to explore and adopt generative AI. PUT AI TO WORK Tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard are getting significant attention in the popular press these days. And while they are new, businesses are already putting them to work in all sorts of interesting ways. Doctors, for example, are using generative AI to help them respond to the crushing influx of email inquiries they receive from patients and

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find the best way to communicate an alarming test result.

Marketers are using these products to quickly draft blog posts, social media content, and even whitepapers. And lawyers are using generative AI to accelerate the discovery process, helping to craft the targeted questions that drive the opposition to yield critical information.

In the construction industry, one of the areas that has seen the greatest AI-powered innovation has been construction scheduling. Until recently, this was a specialty area that hadn’t seen new supporting technology introduced in decades.

Traditionally, scheduling has been done using old-school tools such as Oracle P6 or Microsoft Project. These tools can be challenging to use, which means GCs—including those that self-perform concrete—have yet to have the luxury of creating and testing different construction options. Based on their many years of experience, seasoned schedulers usually create just a single project schedule. And if things change mid-project—as they often do—then the superintendents implementing those schedules work around the problems that have arisen as best they can.

ALICE Technologies

Tools like ChatGPT and Google Bard get the majority of attention in the media, but AI can help contractors by optimizing construction scheduling.

34 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

AI technology can now help contractors create and test various different construction schedules to find the most efficient way to build.

With our software, ALICE users create their schedules within the platform, either from scratch or by incorporating information from prior P6 schedules. Tried and true, GCs can now use AI to create thousands of possible “variations on a theme” in an effort to discover ways to build that use people and material more efficiently, or that reduce risk. Through a process known as “construction optioneering,” they can then experiment with the schedule options they create to test what happens if they adjust certain variables. For example, if they were to use quick drying concrete vs. traditional concrete, how would this change of material impact schedule duration? How would using reusable formwork affect time and cost?

Experimenting with options in this way would enable users to make data-driven decisions about exactly how they’ll build.

GENERATIVE CONSTRUCTION SCHEDULING Picture a situation where a self-performing concrete contractor works on a major highway project. According to the contract signed with the state DOT, the contractor will not be rewarded for completing its work early. However, it will be subject to significant penalties if it is responsible for the project missing its delivery deadline. In this situation, therefore, it is essential for the contractor to minimize risk. With ALICE, it could use generative construction scheduling to create a variety of different schedules for the project. It could then use the platform’s “what if” analysis capabilities to further refine the most promising options, testing ways to tune the schedule to maximize its probability of hitting its target delivery date. The contractor will also be operating with the confidence that comes from knowing that if things go sideways during the build—a shipment of materials is late, for example, or a labor strike temporarily reduces capacity _t has a tool at hand that can help it to revise and recalculate its schedule to avoid those costly liquidated damages.

The ability to create and optimize schedules like this enables a GC to create a construction schedule that makes the best use of resources at acceptable levels of cost and risk. In doing so, it increases GCs’ profitability. It sounds remarkable—almost magical.

WHERE’S THE CATCH? The biggest challenge to putting such technology to work is its novelty. Traditional schedulers have sometimes used the same tools for decades and are comfortable doing what they know. Working with AI- based construction scheduling tools would require them to learn new software and adapt to new ways of thinking about the scheduling discipline. There can be a resistance to such a change, but the rewards for investing in change can be big. At the individual level, schedulers end up spending less time on drudgery and more time on evaluating interesting, strategic options. At the corporate level, enlisting

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

CRETE-PLANERS

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CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 35

FORM YOUR BUSINESS CONTINUED

Images provided by ALICE Technologies

generative AI can save companies millions of dollars on a single project by driving increased efficiency and avoiding the penalties and litigation that can come from missing commitments.

Today’s modern tools provide a great opportunity to test for yourself and embrace it. You might just be stunned by how this new technology can help make the most of your resources on your next major construction project.

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René Morkos is the founder of ALICE Technologies and teaches at Stanford University’s doctorate program in construction engineering.

Find this article online at https://CONC.me/eh9k25fc

800.800.9274

36 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

www.ForConstructionPros.com/Concrete

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Handle any job with the Simpson Strong-Tie® 3G family of epoxy and hybrid acrylic anchoring adhesives. Code listed for cracked and uncracked concrete, they're easy to install and provide a high-strength hold. SET-3G™ epoxy is our most versatile adhesive with ultimate bond strength for heavy-duty, structural work. Choose ET-3G™ epoxy for general rebar doweling and threaded rod. For a fast-cure option, AT-3G™ hybrid acrylic allows same-day bolt-up in a wide range of temperatures, including extreme cold. Stocked nationwide at local retailers, our adhesives are backed by expert service and technical support.

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MINNICH’S VERSATILE INNOVATIONS HELP MEET TODAY’S CONCRETE PLACEMENT CHALLENGES Minnich Manufacturing, the leading manufacturer of concrete dowel pin drills, concrete vibrators and vibrator monitoring systems, is dedicated to helping concrete contractors maximize efficiency.

Minnich’s Stinger and Controlled Speed Vibrator (CSV) are just two examples of how the company’s concrete innovations serve customers.

The light yet rugged Stinger electric flex shaft concrete vibrator is a 14.5-pound double-insulated universal motor that can drive the full line of Minnich vibrator shafts and heads from ¾ inch to 2 ½ inches.

The CSV enables contractors to communicate using their cell phone’s Bluetooth to select set speeds of vibrations per minute (VPM) in coordination with the concrete slump being poured.

Minnich will continue to bring products to the industry that support the findings of concrete research facilities across the country.

For more information, visit www.minnich-mfg.com

38 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2022

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TechCrete is a flexible and extremely strong repair mastic with proven performance of 10+ years. Its exceptional ability to bond to concrete and remain flexible with thermal movement and extreme weather conditions makes TechCrete an ideal repair solution for wide cracks, joint deficiencies, surface defects, and many other distresses.

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CONCRETE CONTRACTOR 39

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NEW OZTEC BP-45 BACKPACK AND RUBBERHEAD® WITH OPTIONAL EXTENSION PIECE Oztec is proud to introduce the newest edition to its industry leading backpack vibrators.

The New BP-45 adds a powerful 2HP option, capable of running vibrator heads up to 2” in diameter, in a lightweight configuration. This backpack maintains Oztec’s Job-Proven Rugged design. Built to withstand the demands of concrete construction sites with a sturdy steel frame, dependable Honda engines, fully adjustable padding system and the highest quality components, all designed for easy maintenance and long life.

The BP-45 is an option between Oztec’s lightest weight model, the BP-35, and Oztec’s most powerful option, the BP-50a. As with all of Oztec’s power units, the BP-45 includes our patented Quick Disconnect for easy interchangeability with Oztec flexible shafts and vibrator heads.

New RubberHeads® with Optional Extension Piece In December of 2019 Oztec Industries, Inc. reintroduced its 1-1/8” & 1-1/2” RubberHeads®. Both of these heads are available with an optional rubber coated extension piece. With Oztec extension pieces, you can greatly reduce the chance of the vibrator head becoming entangled in the rebar. These heads were originally designed to meet the needs of the construction of the Hood Canal Floating Bridge in Washington State, where over 30,000 cubic yards of concrete were poured in heavily congested rebar without a single head getting entangled in the rebar.

Oztec RubberHeads®, ranging in size from 1-1/8” to 2-3/4”, not only protect epoxy coated rebar and delicate form faces, but also produce better consolidated concrete and are job proven to be more efficient and effective than any other vibrator head on the market!

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Influencing Field Production Through Greater Clarity

I

t’s much easier to talk about than doing, being clear whenever communicating with our field leaders, be it verbal, face-toface, by cell-phone, when texting, or via sending e-mail, we need to regularly seek clarity. As one PM shared with me, “If you are going to be wrong…be clearly wrong!”

Not sure that’s the best idea to embrace but it gets the point across about the need for clarity.

But how do we communicate clearly? Let me share a few methods that do not work, including: • Talk louder, even yelling, when others don’t appear to understand.

• Talking to others without looking at them while you are barking out orders.

• Talking very quickly through your giving of information and not giving others a chance to ask questions.

• Not including a written outline or review of the information you are sharing, especially if the discussion involves more complicated facts, issues, etc.

So, how do we communicate more clearly on our jobsites?

Remember, to do so greatly impacts the success of our jobs and places more confidence in those receiving our messages.

Consider six actions that can strengthen the clarity of the messaging you are sending to those working to execute your projects.

1. Know your subject!

This first action recommends that you first understand the information you are imparting to others. It’s hard to inspire people, much less influence their efforts

and decisions if you do not understand what is at hand. Therefore, before passing on information or directing your field leaders and work crews, be sure to know the “Why” behind your topic. There is nothing worse than a leader passing on information or setting out plans when they are not clear about the intent and need.

2. Mentally rehearse your discussion!

Depending on the complexity of the information you are presenting, you may be wise to rehearse the presenting of the information. Often, what sounds easy and normal to you may not always deliver a clear message. By rehearsing what you need to share, you can better gauge if you are delivering the message in a clearer fashion. An added thought is to present the information to someone first to see if your message was clear to them.

3. Ask more questions and take notes!

I’ve always encouraged construction leaders to keep a pocket size notepad that can be quickly brought out to write down thoughts, ideas, questions, facts, etc. Because communication is a “two-way” experience, as questions from those listening to your messaging. Do they understand?

Can they summarize to you what they think they heard you say? Do they grasp the reason behind the information? Such an effort will greatly improve the clarity of the information delivered. And again, take notes on other people when they are speaking to you.

4. Tell others what you are going to say; say it; and then

42 CONCRETE CONTRACTOR NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2023

tell them what you told them!

Sound complicated?

It really isn’t. This is an old trick shared by Zig Ziglar, once identified as the greatest motivator of people world-wide. His reason was simple: tell others what you want them to know or understand then, tell them the message. At the conclusion of sharing the information, tell them, in summary form, what you said and why you needed to tell them (On big or complicated issues). Remember, your goal in communicating is to have others crystal clear about what the goal is for the day, where to start the days efforts, when materials will arrive, what equipment may be needed, what the expectation of the client is, etc.

5. Always ask your listener to summarize your message!

The construction schedule has seen such a squeezing of time allowed over the past decades.

Most customers simply expect projects to be completed faster, and with the same perfect level of quality. The last thing we need to do is to create longer completion times just do to our inability to be clear the first time. Just as we expect production to be completed the right way…the first time, so too do we need to be clear with our messaging the first time.

6. Follow-up with notes and summaries!

Psychology has again and again encouraged people to take notes when listening or watching.

It’s amazing how our brains work and one of the means to extend our memory is to record what we

think we heard or observed. Even time you have a future conversation with your field leaders, start taking notes on your conversation.

To be extra clear, send out a summary to those same individuals to confirm what you believed was the primary information that needed to be shared and embraced.

When influencing your field leaders and the work crews, it is important that we are all on the same page before working every day. Take the few extra seconds to strengthen that understanding.

You will see your influencing of your leaders, and others, sky rocket as they gain more confidence in leading them in the right and clear pathway to success!

Here’s to being clear when communicating!

Brad Humphrey is the President and Founder of Pinnacle Development Group. Brad continues to speak at conferences about the world, working with contractors of all size. His weekly podcast, The Contractor’s Best Friend, continues to be an industry leader and is sponsored by Caterpillar and IRONMARKETS. Find his podcast on ForConstructionPros.com for more learning.

For more information visit http://CONC.me/bestfriend

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