I never liked adding fibers to the mix until this one job

For years, I avoided using synthetic fibers in my concrete pours because I thought they messed up the finish. On a recent patio pour, the homeowner insisted on it for crack control. After it cured, I was shocked at how smooth it still looked and how few hairline cracks appeared. Now I get why some folks swear by it for outdoor slabs. Have you had a similar change of heart with mix additives?

3 comments

3 Comments

derek8752mo ago

Have you checked if fibers reduce slab curling too?

thomasmitchell2mo ago

Actually, fibers can sometimes make slab curling worse if they're not the right type or mix. They add a lot of surface area that bonds with the paste, which might increase shrinkage in the top layer if it dries faster. It's one of those things that needs really specific planning to help instead of hurt.

verab762mo ago

Mix fibers with shrinkage reducers to prevent extra curling.