Our solar project called for air entrained concrete. This was new to me, so here’s what I learned.

When we think about concrete, we often picture solid structures like roads and slabs, but there’s even stronger and more weather resistant choice: air entrained concrete.

So, what exactly is air entrained concrete?

Simply put, it’s a type of concrete that contains tiny air bubbles dispersed throughout the mixture. These bubbles act as microscopic cushions, enhancing the concrete’s durability and resilience. Where we live, we have a lot of frost heave, and using air entrained concrete for our solar project was the best option.

So what’s so special about these little bubbles? Well, when concrete freezes and thaws, water trapped inside it expands, leading to cracks and deterioration over time. Air entrained concrete fixes this problem by giving some space for the water to expand into the bubbles, reducing internal pressure and preventing cracks from forming. It’s like giving your concrete a built-in defense mechanism against the forces of nature.

Some concrete companies will deliver air entrained concrete right to you, but luckily, making air entrained concrete is easier than you might think. We made our own using the following:

Materials Needed

• Quikrete 5000
• Water
• Air-entraining admixture (we bought this on Amazon)

How to Make Air Entrained Concrete

1. Start by mixing the quikrete according to instruction, but keep in mind you’ll use a little less water since you’ll be adding the liquid air-entraining admixture. The exact amount needed per bag of quikrete is on the bottle.
2. Gradually add water to the mixture while stirring continuously until you achieve a uniform consistency. Avoid adding too much water, as this can weaken the final product.
3. Now it’s time to add the secret ingredient: the air-entraining admixture. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions for the proper dosage.
4. Mix everything thoroughly to ensure the air entraining admixture is evenly distributed throughout the concrete.
5. Now, you’re ready to pour the concrete into your desired mold or formwork. Be sure to compact it properly to remove any air pockets and achieve maximum strength.
6. Finally, allow the concrete to cure properly according to recommended guidelines, and voila! You’ve just made your very own air entrained concrete.

Whether you’re working on a DIY project at home or tackling a large-scale construction job, air entrained concrete is a game-changer. Its ability to withstand harsh weather and time make it a go-to choice. So, the next time you’re planning a concrete project, consider adding a little air to the mix for a result that’s stronger, more durable, and built to last.