Concrete surfaces usually get one of the three main types of voids: water, air and attached. Most of the mistakes that lead to the formation of surface voids occur during the mixing and vibration process. The key to avoiding and eliminating these anomalies, therefore, lies in whether the proper ratios were followed in the concrete-mixing process and how the vibration is done. Here are the three simple tips which will help you have a simpler time eliminating bug holes from concrete surfaces.

Adding mortar to the concrete

When you increase the amount of mortar in the mixture you are using to cast concrete, it becomes more fluid. The higher concentration of mortar helps simplify the encapsulation process, which provides a venting system for the air to escape. Larger pieces can vibrate when the mortar content is high, which makes it easy for air to escape.

Changing the cement you are using

Another move which will be very useful in reducing the possibility of air entrapment and formation of surface voids is using fine cement. Cement is the lubricant which binds together all the other elements and helps achieve a fluid consistency. If you want to increase the lubricity of the resulting mixture further, you can even switch regular cement for fly ash. In the absence of fly ash, go for the finest cement texture that you can find as it will help you eliminate the possibility of concrete bugs forming.

Increase the ratio of cement to water

Low cement-to-water ratio is another factor connected to the retention of air bubbles and the formation of concrete bug holes. The ideal preventative measure to prevent this from happening would be to make sure that the cement to water ratio is okay. In cases where this is not possible, you can increase the vibration time to remove all the air bubbles which could be trapped in the mixture.

Other factors that affect the formation of bubbles include the material used in the casting process. If the material is not smooth and stable, the surface tension of the concrete will be affected, which will lead to bug holes. Another technique which can help you achieve better outcomes from the vibration process is the use of release agents. Commercial concreting contractors recommend release agents because, in addition to removing the bubbles, they lengthen the life of the mould. Always use a contractor for the service.