How we prepare the site and take precautions to minimize cracking potential:
1. Plate tamp new gravel as needed to reduce settling.
2. There’s an old adage, “There are 2 guarantees with concrete, it will get harder and it will crack.”
Best practice is to add control joints every 10', so we saw cut control joints 1/4 of the depth of the concrete slab at 10' or less distances. They manage stress and maintain structural integrity.
Btw, “tooled joints” are often used which create an internal “picture frame” look. We usually do the “picture frame” edges because it is fairly standard and more attractive than brooming to the edge. We do not do “tooled” joints (except for sidewalks) because they are not the 1/4 depth of the slab so are insufficient for crack control. Plus, “tooled” joints create bumps that mess with kids scooters/skates, etc. and more prone to be a tripping hazard.
3. We use 4000PSI concrete, which has a higher strength factor than many companies use, as well as fiber added to increase strength, and often add a “water reducer” called “mid-range” to decrease how wet the concrete is, thereby reducing the likelihood of shrinkage cracks, flaking and spalling.
4. When the customer is willing to add the extra/minimal cost benefit of 6 gauge welded wire mesh, it will increase overall strength (6 gauge is thicker than 10 gauge). See note below.
Benefits of Using 6-Gauge Welded Wire Mesh in Concrete
Using 6-gauge welded wire mesh in concrete offers several advantages that make it a popular choice for both residential and commercial projects.
1. Strength and Crack Control
Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension. The 6-gauge mesh adds tensile strength, helping to reduce shrinkage-related cracking by up to 50–70% compared to plain concrete.
This keeps cracks small and prevents them from spreading, improving the appearance and durability of slabs, walls, and foundations.
2. Even Stress Distribution
The welded grid pattern spreads tensile stresses evenly across the concrete surface, reducing localized stress points that can cause cracking.
This makes the structure more resilient to temperature changes, drying shrinkage, and heavy loads.
3. Versatility in Applications
It is widely used for:
- Concrete slabs, driveways, patios, and sidewalks
- Foundation reinforcement
- Shotcrete stabilization
- Precast concrete elements
- Wall reinforcement
4. Compliance and Quality
Manufactured to standards like ASTM A1064 and sometimes CSA A23.3, 6-gauge mesh ensures consistent quality, secure welds, and reliable performance in structural designs.
5. Long-Term Durability
By controlling cracking and distributing loads, the mesh extends the service life of concrete structures, reducing the need for costly repairs or replacements.
Summary:
For most residential slabs and light-duty commercial projects, 6-gauge 6×6 welded wire mesh provides an excellent balance of strength, cost, and ease of installation. It is especially effective in controlling shrinkage cracks, and improving durability.
No Upfront Payments
Satisfaction Guarantee
Emergency Service
Right First-Time Promise
8 Years Experience
Phone: (865) 384-3602
Email: [email protected]
Address: 218 S Peters Rd #209, Knoxville, TN 37923
Hours: Mon - Fri, 8am - 5pm
Our Service Area
Knoxville, TN
West Knoxville, TN
Farragut, TN
Maryville, TN
Lenoir City, TN
Friendsville, TN
West Hills, TN
Sequoyah Hills, TN
Hardin Valley, TN
Karns, TN
Solway, TN
Powell, TN
Cedar Bluff, TN
Bearden, TN
Lewisville, TN
Rocky Hill, TN
Riverbend, TN
© Copyright 2026 All Rights Reserved | Privacy Policy | Terms of Service | Sitemap | Website by Syracuse SEO Pro