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Concrete Logic Podcast

Seth Tandett

What is the most used manmade material on Earth? You guessed it – concrete.

In each episode of Concrete Logic, we will explore one concrete-related topic with the help of industry professionals that are shaping the future of the trade. We’ll talk with suppliers, contractors, architects, engineers, specialists, and even some proponents of competing materials about their views of concrete and their vision of its future.

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  • 23 episodes
  • fortnightly
  • Avg 36 min
  • English

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  • S1 · E172
    October 15 · 42 min

    EP #172: Is Your Concrete Mix Eating Your Formwork?

    ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Why aren’t your concrete forms and release agents performing like they used to? Seth is joined by Ken Pratt, technical director at Swanson Group, and Jonas DeWeber, strategic account manager at Nox-Crete, to discuss what changing concrete mixes mean for formwork. They explain why they believe more reactive mixes are contributing to shorter plywood life, release problems, and unexpected concrete finishes. Seth questions whether adjusting the release agent could solve the problem, or whether contractors need to rethink the entire combination of concrete, plywood, and release agent. The conversation raises a practical question: Are you selecting formwork for the concrete you’re placing today, or the concrete you worked with five years ago? WHAT YOU’LL LEARN How Ken and Jonas connect C595 blended cement mixes to changes in formwork performance The difference between barrier and reactive release agents How concrete chemistry and exposure time can affect plywood overlays What distinguishes MDO, HDO, and phenolic surface film Why an overlay designation alone may not define the performance you need How release-agent selection can affect stripping and surface appearance Why Ken is researching melamine overlays and what challenges remain Why concrete discoloration may involve more than plywood or release agents How pre-bid collaboration and mock-ups can help prevent costly surprises Why finish requirements and specified form materials sometimes conflict CHAPTERS (01:43) Introduction and episode overview (02:08) Guests’ backgrounds and concrete formwork experience (03:02) Supporting the podcast and listener engagement (05:03) C595 blended cement and formwork performance (05:50) Reactive concrete mixes, plywood, and release agents (08:07) Concrete chemistry and overlay deterioration (10:04) MDO and HDO overlays explained (12:07) Concrete alkalinity and formwork (14:19) Matching release agents to reactive mixes (15:18) Extending plywood life and managing formwork costs (18:16) Overlay technology and plywood durability (21:11) Can one formwork and release-agent combination work everywhere? (24:06) Getting suppliers involved before construction (25:40) Coordinating mix designs, formwork, and finish expectations (35:22) Key takeaways for contractors and project managers (37:01) Connecting with Ken and Jonas GUEST INFO Ken Pratt Technical Director Swanson Group Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/ken-pratt/ Jonas DeWeber Strategic Account Manager Nox-Crete Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/jonas-deweber/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Concrete changed. Has your understanding kept up? Concrete Logic Academy offers practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and early access to Concrete Logic Podcast episodes. Members also had the opportunity to submit questions for this conversation. Join Concrete Logic Academy: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST The Concrete Logic Podcast is independent and bootstrapped. If it gives you value, send a little value back. Support the podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also help by sharing this episode with a colleague or sending Seth a topic or guest suggestion. KUIU LISTENER OFFER Get 10% off KUIU with code LOGICPOD and support the Concrete Logic Podcast through our affiliate link. Shop KUIU: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://concreteschool.co Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E171
    October 6 · 42 min

    EP #171: 585,000 Yards of Concrete: Building a Massive LNG Plant

    ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST What does it take to build the process area of a massive LNG facility? Seth talks with Joey Goscha of Baker Construction about the concrete work behind the liquefaction trains, power facilities, and underground systems. Joey explains why the job starts with the ground and why early decisions can affect everything that follows. Seth presses him on pile connections and what happens when the work in the field does not go as planned. They also discuss how crews manage concrete production, safety, and quality at a pace few commercial contractors ever see. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN What the process area includes beyond the LNG storage tanks Why Gulf Coast ground conditions shape the work from the start How precast piles support massive equipment foundations Why Joey believes owners should invest in a thorough test pile program What can happen when pile connection sleeves miss their intended elevation How foundations are prepared for modules built elsewhere and shipped to the site Why crews place much of the structural concrete at night How multiple batch plants supply different mixes across the site Where precast and cast-in-place duct banks each make sense Why Joey puts safety first when discussing schedule and productivity What would surprise a commercial contractor walking onto an LNG project CHAPTERS (01:45) Introduction and ways to support the show (04:26) What is LNG, and why does it matter? (08:41) What goes into an LNG process area? (10:53) The size of the site and its workforce (12:13) Ground stabilization, piles, and foundations (17:12) Pile connections and the case for test piles (20:52) Night pours and concrete production (24:25) Miles of duct banks, piping, and trenches (27:04) Safety and productivity at this scale (29:28) Why stabilizing the ground is harder than it looks (33:00) What would shock a commercial contractor? (35:11) Joey on the pace of American construction GUEST INFO Joseph “Joey” Goscha Vice President, Baker Construction Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/joseph-goscha/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Ground conditions, pile decisions, mix coordination, and placement all affect what happens next. The more you understand the “why” behind the concrete, the better questions you can ask before problems reach the field. Concrete Logic Academy offers practical concrete education and courses for people who want to build that knowledge. Start learning here: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, share this episode with a colleague. Have a topic or guest suggestion? Use Ask Seth or leave a voicemail at: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ You can also visit the website and click Donate to send some value back: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/donate GET THE CONCRETE LOGIC NEWSLETTER One email each week with the latest episode, a new article, and questions worth asking about the concrete industry. Sign up here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/concrete-logic-newsletter-sign-up/ 10% OFF KUIU FOR CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST LISTENERS Need gear for your next hunt? Shop KUIU through our link and use code LOGICPOD for 10% off: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.instagram.com/mduntonmusic WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://concreteschool.co Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E170
    September 24 · 22 min

    EP #170: Concrete Silica vs. Silicates: Are You Getting What You Paid For?

    JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY. ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST What if the product you bought as colloidal silica is actually a cheap silicate? Seth is joined by Dr. Jon Belkowitz of Intelligent Concrete to explain why these similarly named materials are not the same. Jon argues that pH is one of the quickest ways to distinguish colloidal silica from a silicate, and that the difference can affect performance, handling, specifications, and cost. The bigger concern is what happens when a product is sold as colloidal silica but is actually a much less expensive silicate. Jon says buyers should verify the chemistry instead of relying only on labels or sales claims. The conversation also connects colloidal silica to current durability concerns in concrete and asks a practical question: Are you actually getting the material you think you are buying? WHAT YOU’LL LEARN • The basic difference between a silicate and colloidal silica • Why Jon compares the difference between silicate and silica to the difference between cement and concrete • How sodium, potassium, and lithium silicates differ • Why pH can be an important first check when evaluating a product sold as colloidal silica • Why higher-pH silicates can require different handling and shipping considerations • Why the cost difference between silicates and colloidal silica matters when evaluating a product • Why Jon believes some products are being represented inaccurately in the marketplace • What DOTs, contractors, and owners should verify instead of relying only on product descriptions • Why Jon connects the renewed interest in colloidal silica to durability concerns with some lower-carbon concrete systems • How colloidal silica may be used as one tool for improving concrete performance • Why a certificate of analysis or independent testing can help confirm what material was actually supplied CHAPTERS (00:00) Introduction and support for the show (02:13) A quick detour into Leon Foucault and science (02:50) Concrete Logic Academy and today’s topic (03:18) Silica versus silicates (04:59) Using pH to tell the difference (05:59) When does the difference matter in concrete? (07:48) The cost gap between silicates and colloidal silica (09:55) Product labeling, SDS information, and accountability (10:26) Why DOTs specify silica (12:49) What customers expect colloidal silica to do (16:50) Colloidal silica and lower-carbon concrete (18:00) How to verify what you are buying GUEST INFO Dr. Jon Belkowitz Intelligent Concrete Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/dr-jon-belkowitz/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY The people who understand concrete are the people who get listened to. Not the loudest person in the meeting. Not the person repeating what they heard ten years ago. The person who understands why the chemistry matters usually has the most valuable voice in the room. That is what Concrete Logic Academy is built for. You get practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the topics covered on the Concrete Logic Podcast. Start learning here: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.instagram.com/mduntonmusic/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E169
    September 15 · 36 min

    EP #169: Can Putting Other People First Help You Win in Concrete Construction?

    JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY. ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST What if the fastest way to get ahead in concrete construction is to stop focusing so much on what you get? Construction is competitive. Margins are tight, schedules matter, and when problems show up, everyone starts protecting their number. Seth is joined by Steve Eanes, a licensed Go-Giver coach, to ask whether putting other people first can actually make you more successful. Using the Five Laws of Stratospheric Success from The Go-Giver, Steve explains why value, trust, authenticity, influence, and receptivity can change the way customers and partners see you. The lesson is not to work for free or ignore profit. It is to create so much value that price becomes only one part of the decision. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN · Why creating value is different from simply lowering your price · What customers may value beyond the product listed on an invoice · Why Steve believes income grows by serving more people without sacrificing quality · How trust and relationships can reduce the importance of being the cheapest option · Why becoming a useful connector can create value outside your normal scope of work · The difference between a go-giver, a go-getter, and a go-taker · Why authenticity becomes most visible when a project is under pressure · How keeping score can turn generosity into a transaction · Why receiving payment, recognition, and help is part of effective giving · What Steve calls the “law of left field” and how referrals can emerge years later · One question you can ask before a meeting, project, or customer conversation to begin practicing these ideas CHAPTERS (00:00) Concrete Logic Academy and introduction (01:05) Can putting other people first work in construction? (04:20) Steve Eanes and the Five Laws of Stratospheric Success (05:55) The story behind The Go-Giver (07:06) Law of Value: creating more than what appears on the invoice (10:38) Law of Compensation: serving more people without losing quality (12:31) Law of Influence: putting other people’s interests first (16:53) Law of Authenticity under pressure (20:04) Law of Receptivity: learning to receive (25:07) The law of left field and unexpected referrals (27:56) How to start practicing the Go-Giver principles (28:31) Steve’s master class, journal, and final takeaway GUEST INFO Steve Eanes Licensed Go-Giver Coach Profile: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/steve-eanes/ Website: https://www.steveeanes.com The Go-Giver Way Free Masterclass: https://www.gogivermasterclass.com Walk in Your Value Journal based on The Go-Giver: https://mybook.to/walkinyourvalue The Go-Giver Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0168Y6UO6 CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY The people who understand how to create value are often the people others want involved when a project gets difficult. That applies to concrete knowledge too. The person who understands the “why” behind the concrete, asks better questions, and helps the rest of the project team make better decisions can bring value far beyond the material itself. That is what Concrete Logic Academy is built for. You get practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the topics covered on the Concrete Logic Podcast. Start learning here: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Tony Thomas, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton Instagram: @mduntonmusic WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E168
    September 3 · 35 min

    EP #168: Are We Mishandling Concrete Admixtures?

    JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY. ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST What happens when an admixture reaches the concrete producer in a different condition than when it left the manufacturer? Seth is joined by Concrete Bob Higgins to discuss how heat, cold, microbial growth, separation, and poor storage or transportation can affect water-based admixtures before they enter the mix. They examine how admixtures may change during shipping or storage, why producers should watch for unusual odors, color changes, solids, scum, or consistency changes, and why manufacturers should provide clear handling requirements. Before blaming the cement, weather, batch plant, or contractor for a concrete problem, should we first ask what happened to the admixtures? WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why Bob believes stacking admixtures can create cascading chemical effects in concrete How microbial growth may change the condition and performance of water-based admixtures Why biocides are used in some admixture formulations How high storage temperatures may affect microbial protection What odor, color, viscosity, sediment, or surface growth may indicate about an admixture Why transportation and warehouse conditions matter before an admixture reaches the batch plant Seth’s concern about admixtures traveling through unconditioned trucks and storage containers Why adding more of a damaged or altered admixture may create additional problems How cold temperatures may contribute to separation, crystallization, or inconsistent dosing in some formulations Why Bob recommends getting storage and handling requirements from manufacturers in writing What ready-mix producers should inspect before using an admixture that appears different than expected CHAPTERS (00:00) Why admixture handling matters (03:00) Concrete Logic Academy and a new learning game (04:16) Are we mishandling concrete admixtures? (05:21) Cascading effects when admixtures are combined (06:10) Biocides, heat, and microbial growth (08:20) What a spoiled admixture may look and smell like (10:26) Cold-weather storage and water-based products (12:17) Why Bob wants better shipping quality control (15:06) Storage temperature and the condition of the product (17:12) Seth questions what happens during normal transportation (18:21) Why simply increasing the dosage may not solve the problem (20:20) Are admixtures tested under real jobsite conditions? (21:28) Checking microbial-growth claims with AI (24:06) Refrigerated shipping and controlled storage (25:53) Separation, crystallization, and dosing consistency (28:05) Get the manufacturer’s requirements in writing (28:51) Smell it, inspect it, and do not ignore warning signs (29:45) Bob’s practical advice for ready-mix producers GUEST INFO Robert "Concrete Bob" Higgins Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/robert-higgins/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Concrete chemistry gets complicated quickly when one change affects everything else in the mix. Understanding why an admixture works, how it should be handled, and what can interfere with its performance gives you a better foundation for solving concrete problems instead of guessing. Concrete Logic Academy provides practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the podcast. Join for free: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com Looking for workwear and hunting gear that can keep up with demanding conditions? KUIU delivers premium, purpose-built gear designed for serious performance. Get 15% off your first order: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu CREDITS Producers: Joshua Huckeby, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E167
    August 25 · 39 min

    EP #167: Is Concrete’s Tough-Guy Culture Putting Workers at Risk?

    JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY. ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Does concrete’s culture of toughness help people handle difficult work, or does it keep them from asking for help when they need it most? Seth is joined by Mike Schneider, who spent 45 years with Baker and served as senior vice president and chief people officer. They discuss why construction workers may suffer in silence, how supervisors can recognize behavior changes, and why mental health needs the same attention the industry gives physical safety. Mike argues that changing the culture starts with stronger relationships, leaders willing to show vulnerability, and making resources such as mental-health first aid, EAPs, and 988 easier to access. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why construction’s traditional tough-guy culture can discourage workers from asking for help Why Mike prefers framing the issue around “mental strength” How leaders can make vulnerability and asking for help more acceptable on the job Why relationships with crew members matter when identifying changes in behavior What supervisors should notice when a normally dependable coworker begins acting differently Why mental-health first-aid training can be valuable for frontline supervision How industry groups are addressing mental health and suicide prevention Why long hours, travel, layoffs, physical pain, family pressure, and substance use can compound stress Why simply offering an Employee Assistance Program is not enough if workers do not know how to use it Why contractors should include suicide response and postvention in crisis planning CHAPTERS (00:00) Construction toughness and the mental-health question (04:01) Why construction workers suffer in silence (09:09) Changing safety culture and redefining strength (11:50) Relationships, behavior changes, and recognizing trouble (15:46) Mental-health resources for the construction industry (20:34) Opioids, overdoses, and Narcan on the jobsite (21:59) Removing stigma and talking openly about mental health (24:15) Why construction faces a difficult combination of risk factors (27:51) EAPs, 988, and making help easier to reach (29:44) Screening tools and starting the conversation (30:37) Language, crisis planning, and postvention (33:05) Mike’s closing challenge and contact information GUEST INFO Mike Schneider, Consultant Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/mike-schneider/ Email: schneider@bakersharedservices.com RESOURCES MENTIONED CIASP - Construction Industry Alliance for Suicide Prevention - preventconstructionsuicide.com US - United Suicide Survivors International - unitedsurvivors.com CMHA - Construction Mental Health Alliance - construction wellness.org ANSW - Alliance for Naloxone Safety in the Workplace - answ.org AFSP - American Foundation for Suicide Prevention - afsp.org Books: “The Anxious Generation - How the Great Rewiring of Children is Causing an Epidemic of Mental Illness” by Jonathan Haldt “YES, You can Talk about Mental Health at Work” by Melissa Doman “Empire of Pain - the Secret History of the Sackler Dynasty” by Patrick Radden Keefe “Dreamland - The True Story of America’s Opiate Epidemic” by Sam Quinones CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Concrete knowledge matters, but leadership also means understanding the people doing the work. Concrete Logic Academy provides practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the podcast. Join for free: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com Special thanks to Andrew Johnson for supporting the podcast. CREDITS Producers: Andrew Johnson, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E166
    August 13 · 34 min

    EP #166: Can Concrete Heal Itself?

    JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY. ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST How can concrete be waterproofed from the inside instead of relying on a membrane attached to the surface? Seth is joined by Nick Karam, PE, Business Development Manager at Xypex, to explain how crystalline waterproofing works, where it is commonly used, and how it compares with traditional membranes and coatings. Nick explains how the chemistry reacts inside concrete, how it can help seal hairline cracks when water is present, and what contractors and engineers should consider when comparing products, testing performance, scheduling leak tests, and weighing upfront cost against long-term maintenance. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN • Why hardened concrete can still allow water to move through pores and capillaries • How crystalline waterproofing reacts with water and cement-hydration byproducts • The difference between an integral crystalline admixture and a surface membrane or liner • How crystalline products can also be applied as a slurry coating to existing concrete • Why water exposure can reactivate crystalline chemistry around a new crack • What Nick says contractors should expect during an initial leak test • Why a two-to-two-and-a-half-week healing period may need to be considered in the project schedule • Where crystalline waterproofing is commonly used, including tanks, foundations, elevator pits, tunnels, and wastewater structures • What permeability and hydrostatic-pressure tests can reveal about product performance • How loss-on-ignition testing can be used to compare the active material in crystalline products • Why Nick recommends comparing long-term maintenance and labor costs, not only the admixture cost per cubic yard CHAPTERS (00:00) Introduction, podcast support, and Concrete Logic Academy (04:20) Nick Karam’s background and role at Xypex (05:43) What crystalline waterproofing actually does (07:54) How the crystalline reaction works inside concrete (09:50) Using crystalline coatings on existing concrete (11:46) How to compare crystalline waterproofing products (12:05) Permeability and hydrostatic-pressure testing (15:02) Loss-on-ignition testing and active ingredients (17:18) Where crystalline waterproofing is commonly used (18:48) Mix design, dosage, workability, and admixture compatibility (20:17) When does crystalline waterproofing become active? (23:09) Leak testing and crack-healing time (24:58) Scheduling around tank leak tests (26:09) Cost versus membranes and traditional waterproofing (26:52) Nick’s final takeaway on long-term performance (27:49) How to contact Nick Karam GUEST INFO Nick Karam, PE Business Development Manager Xypex Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/nick-karam-pe/ Email: nick.karam@xypex.com Phone: 216-956-1105 CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Waterproofing concrete is not just about choosing a product. It is about understanding how water moves through concrete, how the system performs over time, and what the testing actually tells you. Concrete Logic Academy helps you understand the “why” behind decisions like these so you can make better calls in the field and in the specifications. Start learning here: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. Support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Ken Tiffany, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E165
    August 4 · 32 min

    EP #165: Why the Next Generation Should Choose Ready Mix Concrete

    JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY. ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Why would someone choose ready mix after growing up around the early mornings, equipment failures, staffing problems, and constant pressure of the business? Seth talks with Morgan and Scotch Nelson of SB Cox Ready Mix about why Scotch followed his father into the industry instead of running from it. Morgan and Scotch explain how hands-on experience, responsibility, technology, and visible results can make concrete a rewarding career. They also discuss the industry’s larger challenge: showing younger workers that ready mix offers more than hard work. It offers ownership, opportunity, and a chance to point to something real and say, “I helped build that.” WHAT YOU’LL LEARN · How SB Cox Ready Mix grew from one plant and six used trucks · Why relationships and industry mentors were important to Morgan’s career · What convinced Scotch to follow his father into the ready mix business · Why working in multiple positions gave Scotch a stronger understanding of the company · How hands-on responsibility can create interest and confidence in younger workers · Why producers are struggling to recruit CDL drivers and mechanics · How changing expectations around work-life balance affect recruitment · Why social media can help ready mix companies reach younger candidates · How cloud-based batching and remote troubleshooting are changing plant operations · Why visible results can make construction work rewarding · How networking with other young professionals can support a long-term concrete career CHAPTERS (00:00) Why choose a career in ready mix? (00:54) Supporting the podcast and Concrete Logic Academy (03:50) How SB Cox Ready Mix started (05:38) The mentors and relationships behind the company (07:53) Growing up around the ready mix business (09:24) Introducing the next generation to concrete (11:49) Responsibility, ownership, and hands-on experience (13:23) Learning the business from the ground up (15:43) Can the industry create similar opportunities for young workers? (16:38) CDL requirements, work-life balance, and recruitment challenges (19:10) Technology and social media in ready mix (20:49) Work ethic and finding meaningful work (23:13) AI, automation, and the future of concrete careers (24:55) Awareness, networking, and the next generation GUEST INFO Morgan Nelson SB Cox Ready Mix Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/morgan-nelson/ Scotch Nelson SB Cox Ready Mix Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/scotch-nelson/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY The people who understand concrete are the people who get listened to. Not the loudest person in the meeting. Not the person repeating what they heard ten years ago. The person who understands the plants, trucks, materials, people, and technology behind ready mix usually has the most valuable voice in the room. That understanding is built through education and hands-on experience. Concrete Logic Academy provides practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the topics covered on the Concrete Logic Podcast. Start learning here: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E164
    July 23 · 30 min

    EP #164: Concrete Maturity Gone Wrong

    JOIN CONCRETE SCHOOL FOR FREE AT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO! ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST What happens when a concrete maturity system is built on the wrong starting temperature? Seth is joined again by Dr. Jon Belkowitz, also known as Concrete Adamus, to explain why datum temperature is one of the most important and commonly overlooked parts of the maturity method. Jon argues that assuming, ignoring, or defaulting the datum temperature can produce the wrong strength relationship. That can lead crews to strip forms too early and create a safety risk, or wait too long and hurt the project schedule. The takeaway is simple: maturity is not just a logger, an app, and a few cylinder breaks. The datum temperature must match the actual concrete mix. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN · How the maturity method approximates early-age concrete strength · Why “approximate” may be a better word than “predict” · What datum temperature represents in the time-temperature factor · Why a default datum temperature may not match a modern concrete mix · How cement type, cementitious materials, and admixtures affect maturity calculations · Why an incorrect datum temperature can lead to premature form removal · How an overly conservative datum temperature can delay the critical path · Why datum temperature testing is separate from strength-maturity cylinder testing · How mortar cubes and controlled curing temperatures are used to determine datum temperature · Why winter and summer mixes may require different maturity calibrations · Why additional cylinders are inexpensive compared with the consequences of poor data CHAPTERS (00:38) Concrete Logic Podcast Introduction (02:05) What Is the Concrete Maturity Method? (05:03) Why “Approximate” Is Better Than “Predict” (05:51) The Time-Temperature Factor Explained (07:08) The Datum Temperature Most People Ignore (07:45) Datum Temperature vs. Activation Energy (08:56) What ASTM C1074 Actually Says (10:03) Why Cement Type Changes Datum Temperature (11:49) The Wrong Datum Temperature Creates the Wrong Curve (12:24) Using Maturity to Turn Forms Faster (13:26) Why Stripping Forms Too Early Can Be Deadly (14:10) What Happens When the Datum Temperature Is Wrong (16:07) Safety vs. the Critical Path (16:54) How Datum Temperature Is Actually Determined (18:11) Why Proper Testing Can Cost $15,000 to $25,000 (19:11) The Problem With Maturity Software Defaults (20:30) The Jump-Form Mistake That Changed Jon’s Thinking (23:00) Stop Being Cheap With Test Cylinders (23:54) The Old IntelliRock Maturity System (24:53) Using Maturity for Fast-Track Highway Repairs (26:34) Why Leaving the Datum Temperature at Zero Is Wrong (27:39) Who Should Perform the Datum Temperature Testing GUEST INFO Dr. Jon Belkowitz Intelligent Concrete Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/dr-jon-belkowitz/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY A maturity reading can look precise and still be wrong. Concrete Logic Academy helps you understand what sits behind the number, including datum temperature, mix changes, testing, and the field decisions that affect safety and schedule. Learn how to question the default before the default creates a problem. Start learning here: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/donate You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Want to connect your company with concrete professionals who care about education, field performance, and better decision-making? Become a Concrete Logic Industry Partner: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/sponsor Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E163
    July 14 · 31 min

    EP #163: How to Fix Air in Concrete

    JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY. ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Are we specifying air entrainment in concrete that does not need it? Seth is joined by Dr. Bruno Fong Martinez, Baker Construction’s concrete materials expert, to examine when air entrainment protects concrete and when it creates unnecessary problems. Air entrainment improves durability where concrete experiences repeated freezing, thawing, and moisture saturation. But Bruno argues that the industry often requires it in climates where that exposure does not exist. That decision can reduce compressive strength, complicate testing, change mix performance, and contribute to rejected trucks and wasted material. The conversation challenges engineers and contractors to move beyond copied specifications and evaluate air requirements based on the actual environment, exposure, and project risk. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN · The difference between entrapped air and entrained air · How air voids help protect saturated concrete during freezing · Why freeze-thaw damage depends on repeated freezing and thawing cycles · Why colder locations do not always experience the most freeze-thaw damage · How air entrainment complicates concrete production and acceptance testing · Why air content can change during transportation, mixing, and pumping · How additional air can reduce compressive strength · Why strength loss may lead to more cement and greater thermal concerns · How freezing and precipitation maps could improve regional specifications · Why copied specifications can require air in environments that do not need it · How early specification reviews and RFIs can reduce waste and concrete problems CHAPTERS (00:00) Introduction and support for the show (03:34) Why unnecessary air entrainment matters (05:07) Where air may and may not be necessary (06:27) Entrapped air versus entrained air (09:21) How air protects concrete during freezing (11:40) Why freeze-thaw cycles matter (12:48) Testing, rejected trucks, and concrete waste (14:41) Strength loss and contractor concerns (16:05) What happens to air during pumping (17:22) Mapping freezing and saturation risk (19:24) Why copied specifications create problems (22:15) Building industry agreement around air entrainment (24:25) Guest information and final takeaways GUEST INFO Dr. Bruno Fong Martinez Concrete Materials Expert Baker Construction Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/bruno-fong-martinez/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY The people who understand concrete are the people who get listened to. Not the loudest person in the meeting. Not the person copying requirements from an old specification. The person who understands why a material or testing requirement belongs in the concrete usually has the most valuable voice in the room. That is what Concrete Logic Academy is built for. You get practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the same materials, durability, and construction problems discussed on the Concrete Logic Podcast. Start learning here: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Zac Richardson, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E162
    July 2 · 29 min

    EP #162: Why This Concrete Expert Wants Air Out of Exterior Slabs

    JOIN THE ACADEMY! VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO TO START LEARNING TODAY. ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Does exterior concrete always need entrained air to survive freezing and thawing? Seth is joined by Jason Adams, founder and CEO of Mega Slab, to challenge that long-standing practice. Jason argues that a properly designed, highly dense concrete system may limit water intrusion enough to reduce the need for entrained air. Seth presses on the risks, including mix design, workability, finishing, curing, and specification requirements. Jason makes clear that he is not recommending contractors simply remove air from a standard mix. His approach depends on treating the concrete as a complete system. The episode asks a practical question: Should exterior concrete be designed to give freezing water room to expand, or should the priority be keeping water out in the first place? WHAT YOU’LL LEARN What air entrainment is intended to do during freeze-thaw exposure The difference between entrained air and naturally entrapped air Why Jason believes entrained air can reduce concrete density How dense concrete may limit water and chloride intrusion Why removing air from a standard exterior mix is not enough How aggregate packing and optimized mix designs affect permeability Why air-entrained concrete should not be hard-trowel finished How entrained air can affect workability and finishing Why specifications and established practices may resist this approach What field performance Jason has observed in Midwestern pavements Why mix design, placement, finishing, curing, and fibers must work as a system CHAPTERS (00:00) Introduction and support for the show (03:24) Jason Adams and the air-void question (04:56) Freeze-thaw testing and ASTM standards (05:46) What air entrainment is designed to do (07:26) Jason challenges the traditional approach (08:52) Can dense concrete keep water out? (11:37) Designing a mix without entrained air (12:58) Why air-entrained concrete should not be troweled (14:47) A problematic exterior pavement example (16:23) Seth asks about the tradeoffs (17:49) Workability, finishing, and industry pushback (20:06) Protecting the concrete surface (22:01) Why this must be treated as a complete system (23:24) How to connect with Jason Adams GUEST INFO Jason Adams Founder and CEO Mega Slab Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/jason-adams/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY The people who understand concrete are the people who get listened to. Not the loudest person in the meeting. Not the person saying, “We have always done it this way.” The person who understands why air, water, density, finishing, and curing affect performance usually has the most valuable voice in the room. That is what Concrete Logic Academy is built for. You get practical concrete education, professional-development courses, and real-world lessons connected to the topics covered on the Concrete Logic Podcast. Start learning here: https://concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E161
    June 23 · 34 min

    EP #161: Should We Stop Designing Concrete for 100 Years?

    JOIN THE ACADEMY!! FOR A LIMITED TIME, VISIT CONCRETESCHOOL.CO FOR YOUR FREE ACCESS!! CONCRETESCHOOL.CO ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Should we really design concrete infrastructure for 75 to 100 years? In this episode, Seth is joined by Dr. Jon Belkowitz to question one of civil engineering’s favorite ideas: the 100-year design life. Using Hoboken, New Jersey as the example, Seth and Jon talk about what happens when old infrastructure has to serve a city that no longer looks, moves, or functions the way it did when that infrastructure was built. The issue is not just whether the concrete lasts. The bigger question is whether the original decision still makes sense. Jon argues that the industry should stop designing only for age and start designing around use, performance, maintenance cycles, and accountability. Maybe a 20-year design life with zero maintenance is harder, and more honest, than a 100-year design life nobody is around to answer for. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN · Why Dr. Jon Belkowitz questions the 100-year design life · What Hoboken, New Jersey teaches us about old infrastructure · Why designing for time may not be the same as designing for use · The difference between design life and maintenance life · Why a 20-year, zero-maintenance target may be harder than a 100-year target · How infrastructure decisions made today can trap future generations · Why compressive strength is not enough to define concrete performance · How sensors, inspections, and data could change infrastructure maintenance · What pavement condition index means and why timing matters · Why Roman concrete is not always a fair comparison for modern infrastructure · Why Jon says we should design for decision cycles instead of age CHAPTERS (0:00) Introduction and support for the show (4:55) Rethinking 100-year design life (7:39) Why designing for time may be the wrong approach (9:57) Seth pushes back on whether we already design shorter than we admit (11:11) Hoboken as a case study (14:13) The 20-year, zero-maintenance idea (15:00) Performance, sensors, and maintenance systems (16:15) Pavement condition index and the cost of waiting (17:45) Why Roman concrete is not the right comparison (18:08) Bridge inspection and infrastructure careers (22:56) Building on top of old Hoboken infrastructure (26:14) Why predicting 100 years out is almost impossible (28:59) Final takeaways: Design for decisions, not age GUEST INFO Dr. Jon Belkowitz Intelligent Concrete Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/jon-belkowitz/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY The people who understand concrete are the people who get listened to. Not the loudest person in the meeting. Not the guy repeating what he heard ten years ago. Not the person blaming every problem on the latest material change. The person who understands the “why” behind the concrete usually has the most valuable voice in the room. That is what Concrete Logic Academy is built for. You get practical concrete education, PDH courses, and real-world lessons pulled from the same topics we cover on the Concrete Logic Podcast. Design life changes. Materials change. Specs change. Owners change their minds. Infrastructure ages. Your knowledge needs to keep up. Start learning here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/concreteschool SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through our KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Tom Cummings, Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E160
    June 11 · 34 min

    EP #160: Is Type IL Cement the Problem, or Did It Just Expose One?

    THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: GPRS Before you cut, core, drill, trench, or start guessing what is inside the slab, call GPRS. GPRS helps contractors locate what is hidden below the surface with ground penetrating radar, utility locating, concrete scanning, video pipe inspection, leak detection, and mapping services. They help keep your jobsite safer, reduce costly hits, and give your team better information before the work starts. Learn more here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/gprs ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Is Type IL cement really the reason concrete started acting different, or did it just expose the problems we already had? Type I/II cement may be making a comeback because contractors, producers, and owners want concrete to act like concrete again. But Concrete Bob Higgins says we need to be careful. Because before Type IL showed up, the concrete industry still had scaling, dusting, cracking, bad curing, water problems, surface failures, and specs that cared more about 28-day strength than long-term durability. So if Type I/II comes back, will the problems go away? Or will we lose our favorite excuse? In this episode, Seth and Bob talk about what really changed in cement, why older concrete behaved differently, why today’s concrete may be more sensitive than the standards admit, and what the industry needs to fix before it repeats the same mistakes. Type IL may have exposed the problem. But it may not be the whole problem. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN · Is Type IL cement really the problem, or did it expose bad habits? · Why Type I/II cement may be coming back · What concrete problems existed before Type IL became common · Why older cement was coarser, slower, and often more durable · How finer cement changed heat, curing demand, cracking, and permeability · Why Type I and Type III cement are closer than most people realize · What self-desiccation means and why it matters at the concrete surface · Why the top inch of concrete may be the weakest link · What contractors and producers should ask before switching back to Type I/II · Why going back to Type I/II cement does not fix bad concrete habits CHAPTERS 00:00 Is Type IL really the problem? 04:03 Why Bob says the industry needs this conversation 06:07 What cement was like before modern concrete problems 08:17 Same 28-day strength, but more permeability 09:25 Type I vs Type III cement 13:19 Why curing may not be protecting the top inch 16:47 What self-desiccation means in plain English 18:52 Why precast concrete can have a surface problem 21:50 What to ask before switching back to Type I/II 24:07 Bob’s Type IL limestone float experiment 25:29 Why the industry cannot waste this opportunity 27:17 Next topic: are admixtures being mishandled? GUEST INFO Bob Higgins, Concrete Bob Concrete chemistry consultant and returning guest on the Concrete Logic Podcast. Guest link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/robert-higgins/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY The people who understand concrete are the people who get listened to. Not the loudest person in the meeting. Not the guy repeating what he heard ten years ago. Not the person blaming every problem on the latest material change. The person who understands the “why” behind the concrete usually has the most valuable voice in the room. That is what Concrete Logic Academy is built for. You get practical concrete education, PDH courses, and real-world lessons pulled from the same topics we cover on the Concrete Logic Podcast. Cement changes. Specs change. Admixtures change. Owners change their minds. Your knowledge needs to keep up. Start learning here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/concreteschool SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through our KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E159
    June 2 · 27 min

    EP #159: Low-Carbon Concrete? Kiss My Grits. Type I/II Is Back!

    THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: GPRS Before you cut, core, drill, trench, or start guessing what is inside the slab, call GPRS. GPRS helps contractors locate what is hidden below the surface with ground penetrating radar, utility locating, concrete scanning, video pipe inspection, leak detection, and mapping services. They help keep your jobsite safer, reduce costly hits, and give your team better information before the work starts. Learn more here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/gprs ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST The concrete industry spent the last few years blaming Type IL cement for almost everything. Cracking. Scaling. Low breaks. Slow set times. Higher water demand. Now Type I/II cement may be making a comeback. So what happens when the “bad guy” leaves the room and the same concrete problems are still standing there? Rich Szecsy joins the show to explain what he is seeing in the Dallas-Fort Worth market, why cement suppliers are shifting, and why this move back to Type I/II may expose an uncomfortable truth. Maybe Type IL caused some problems. Maybe it didn’t. But concrete was never problem-free before Type IL showed up. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Is the cement market really shifting back to Type I/II? Why did Type IL become so common after 2020? What happens when one cement type gets blamed for every concrete problem? Will cracking, scaling, low breaks, and set delays disappear? Why the producer-contractor relationship matters more than internet arguments How ready-mix producers may handle Type IL and Type I/II at the same time Why the market, not the noise, decides which cement gets used CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 01:02 The big topic: Type I/II cement coming back 01:26 How to support the Concrete Logic Podcast 03:34 Rich’s view on the Type IL vs Type I/II shift 04:24 Why Type IL became more available after 2020 05:31 Rich’s 100% placement rate during the supply crunch 06:44 Concrete complaints blamed on Type IL 07:45 What happens if Type I/II returns and problems continue? 09:33 Contractors adjusting to changing cement types 10:07 Micro business needs vs macro industry needs 10:59 Past material changes that caused industry panic 11:24 Why concrete has always had variability 12:28 The old Type I vs Type II confusion 12:43 What cement suppliers are telling customers 13:05 Is the market asking for Type I/II again? 14:00 Why the market decides which cement wins 14:58 How quickly Texas shifted from Type I/II to Type IL 16:08 How ready-mix producers may handle both cement types 16:47 Submittals that allow either Type IL or Type I/II 17:29 Rich’s blunt definition of quality 18:35 Why the producer-contractor relationship matters most 19:51 Jobsite meetings, AI research, and “raspberry” 20:54 Is the Type I/II shift really happening? 21:28 Closing thoughts GUEST INFO Rich Szecsy, CEO, Big Town Concrete https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/rich-szecsy/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY The people who understand concrete are the people who get listened to. Not the loudest person in the meeting. Not the guy repeating what he heard ten years ago. Not the person blaming every problem on the latest material change. The person who understands the “why” behind the concrete usually has the most valuable voice in the room. That is what Concrete Logic Academy is built for. You get practical concrete education, PDH courses, and real-world lessons pulled from the same topics we cover on the Concrete Logic Podcast. Cement changes. Specs change. Admixtures change. Owners change their minds. Your knowledge needs to keep up. Start learning here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/concreteschool SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast gives you value, send a little value back. You can support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through our KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett and Concrete Logic Media Music by: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E158
    May 21 · 25 min

    EP #158: Why New Concrete Fails Faster Than the Old Stuff (And How to Fix It)

    THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: GPRS GPRS helps keep your jobsite safer by locating what is hidden before you cut, core, trench, or drill. Click the GPRS image on the Concrete Logic Podcast website or go here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/gprs ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Spring is when concrete starts telling the truth. After months of cold weather, snow, ice, rain, deicers, and freeze-thaw abuse, your existing concrete may start showing what it went through all winter. In this episode, Dr. Jon Belkowitz joins the show to talk about what to look for when the weather warms up. Scaling. Flaking. Blotchy spots. Exposed aggregate. White staining. ASR gel. Rust bleeding from cracks. All of it is concrete trying to tell you something. Some of it may be surface damage. Some of it may be a sign of a much bigger problem inside the concrete. And if you wait until the damage is obvious, you may already be late. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why spring and early summer act like a “lie detector” for existing concrete Why damaged concrete often looks darker or blotchy after rain What scaling, flaking, and surface loss can tell you about winter damage Why broom finish disappearance may be a warning sign How ASR cracks hold water and reveal themselves after rain What white staining and gel coming out of cracks may mean Why some concrete problems cannot simply be cleaned off or sealed over How wetting, drying, deicing salts, and outside contaminants can keep feeding deterioration Why extending the life of existing concrete may be one of the most practical “green” moves in construction CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction 02:52 What warm weather reveals about existing concrete 03:39 Concrete as a springtime lie detector 04:26 Why newer concrete may look white, blotchy, or damaged 05:22 Scaling, flaking, and lost broom finish 06:01 Why rain makes concrete damage easier to see 07:10 Why damaged concrete holds water 08:25 Rust, staining, and visible cracks 09:02 Spillways, white streaks, and concrete exudation 10:36 Alkali-carbonate reaction and internal concrete problems 11:27 What “oozing” gel from cracks means 12:43 Why cleaning the surface does not fix internal damage 13:00 Slowing deterioration versus fixing it 14:21 The practical side of reducing concrete’s carbon footprint 15:11 How ASR cracks grow and spread 16:15 ASR research and gel morphology 17:17 Protecting concrete from outside contaminants 18:21 Concrete Logic Academy and PDH reminder 19:39 Closing thoughts GUEST INFO Dr. Jon Belkowitz Intelligent Concrete https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/dr-jon-belkowitz/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Most concrete problems do not show up out of nowhere. They start with bad assumptions, missed warning signs, and people not knowing what they are looking at until the problem is already expensive. Concrete Logic Academy was built for the people who want to catch those problems earlier. Practical concrete training. PDH courses. Real-world education from people who actually understand the work. If you want to get better at reading concrete, asking better questions, and spotting issues before they turn into claims, start here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/concreteschool SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast has helped you think differently about concrete, consider supporting the show. You can make a one-time donation, become a monthly supporter, or share the podcast with someone in the industry who needs to hear it. https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through the KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett & Concrete Logic Media Music by Mike Dunton: https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast Concrete Logic Academy: https://www.concretelogicacademy.com/ Until next time, let’s keep it concrete.

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  • S1 · E157
    May 14 · 39 min

    EP #157: Low-Carbon Concrete - Does the Math Actually Work?

    THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: GPRS Before you cut, core, drill, or excavate, make sure you know what is inside the concrete. GPRS helps contractors locate rebar, conduit, post-tension cables, utilities, and other hidden hazards before they become expensive problems. Their scans help reduce hits, downtime, expenses, and keep your people safe. Learn more here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/gprs ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Low-carbon cement sounds good on paper. But can it actually compete in the real concrete market without subsidies, mandates, or customers paying a “green premium”? That is the question Seth gets into with Ryan Gilliam, CEO of Fortera. Ryan explains how Fortera’s approach differs from many other low-carbon cement companies by bolting onto existing cement plants, using limestone as the feedstock, and turning CO₂ back into a reactive cementitious product. This conversation gets into the hard part of low-carbon cement: economics, field performance, scaling, ready-mix adoption, policy risk, and whether these products can survive when the market stops caring about the carbon story. Ryan makes the case that the future of low-carbon cement will not be built on guilt, regulation, or good intentions. It has to perform. It has to be cost competitive. And it has to work in the field. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN • Why “green cement” usually makes contractors and producers assume there is a compromise • How Fortera’s technology bolts onto existing cement plants instead of replacing them • Why limestone loses roughly 44% of its weight as CO₂ during traditional cement production • How Fortera claims to turn that CO₂ back into cementitious material • Whether Fortera’s product should be thought of as an SCM, a cement replacement, or a new cement • Why ready-mix producers are skeptical of alternative cements • What field feedback Fortera has received on finishing, flow, pumping, set time, and cracking • Why Ryan does not believe customers will pay large green premiums • How policy changes could impact demand for low-carbon cement • Why carbon capture usually struggles economically • How Fortera’s approach differs from traditional carbon capture and storage • What has to be true for low-carbon cement companies to scale • Why first commercial plants are such a hard step for new cement technologies • Why Ryan believes performance, not carbon marketing, will decide which technologies survive CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction to Ryan Gilliam and Fortera 03:25 Ryan’s background in materials engineering and cement research 05:20 Fortera’s approach to low-carbon cement 08:28 Is Fortera’s product an SCM or a new cement? 09:23 Blended cement use versus 100% product use 10:33 What is driving demand for low-carbon cement? 13:39 Scaling challenges for new cement technologies 15:43 Field feedback on alternative cement performance 18:58 Type IL rollout, skepticism, and contractor pushback 20:07 Policy risk and whether low-carbon demand depends on regulation 22:18 How Fortera captures CO₂ from limestone 23:07 Why the economics may work 24:41 How this differs from traditional carbon capture 25:45 What cement plants need to adopt the technology 28:07 Fortera’s history and lessons from earlier attempts 29:00 How Fortera may go to market 30:20 Ryan’s main takeaway for the concrete industry 32:09 How to contact Ryan Gilliam GUEST INFO Ryan Gilliam CEO, Fortera Profile: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/ryan-gilliam/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY If you work in concrete and want practical education that actually connects to the jobsite, check out Concrete Logic Academy. This is not theory for the sake of theory. It is concrete education built around the stuff producers, contractors, engineers, and field leaders deal with every day. Specs. Mixes. Placement. Finishing. Troubleshooting. Materials. Durability. Bad assumptions. Costly mistakes. Get access here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/concreteschool SUPPORT THE PODCAST Concrete Logic runs on a value-for-value model. If this episode helped you think through low-carbon cement, alternative cement technology, or what might actually work in the real market, send some value back. Donate here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ You can also support the show through KUIU: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu For sponsorship or media opportunities, contact: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett & Concrete Logic Media Music: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Like, subscribe, comment, and share the episode with someone in the concrete industry who needs to hear it. (Correction: At the 33:42 mark, Ryan referenced testing that reported a compressive strength of 10,000 psi. After recording, the testing result was later determined to be incorrect. The corrected result was approximately 6,000 psi.)

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  • S1 · E156
    May 7 · 39 min

    EP #156: Is Rebar Killing Your Concrete Schedule?

    THIS EPISODE IS BROUGHT TO YOU BY: GPRS Before you cut, core, drill, or trench through concrete, know what is inside it. GPRS helps contractors locate rebar, conduit, post-tension cables, voids, and other hidden hazards before they become expensive problems. Their ground-penetrating radar scanning helps reduce hits, downtime, expenses, and keeps your people safe. Learn more here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/gprs ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Everyone wants concrete work done faster. But what if one of the biggest schedule killers is not the pour, the weather, or the labor shortage? What if it starts with the reinforcement choice? In this episode, Seth talks with TJ Lambert of Forta about how reinforcement decisions affect labor, sequencing, inspections, procurement, finishing, mix design, carbon reporting, and overall project speed. They discuss where fiber-reinforced concrete fits, where it does not, and why engineers, producers, and contractors need to think beyond “replace the bar and move on.” WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why reinforcement choices can slow a concrete project down before the first truck shows up How fibers can reduce labor, congestion, inspection steps, and field coordination The difference between microfibers, macro synthetic fibers, and steel fibers Where fiber reinforcement makes sense, and where traditional rebar still belongs How concrete producers handle fiber dosing at the plant or into the truck Why fiber-reinforced concrete can help contractors place more mud faster How EPDs, LCAs, GWP targets, and Buy America requirements are showing up in reinforcement decisions Why finishing fiber-reinforced slabs still depends on timing, mix design, vibration, and field conditions How Type IL cement may affect finishing timing, saw cutting, paste, and surface performance What engineers need to know about ACI 544, ACI 360, ACI 330, and ACI 318 when considering fiber designs CHAPTERS 00:00 Introduction: Can reinforcement choices kill your schedule? 04:02 What Forta does and how fiber-reinforced concrete fits 05:01 Why reinforcement choices affect schedule more than people realize 08:42 What fibers look like in the field 11:57 Matching fiber type to the right concrete application 13:26 What fiber use means for concrete producers 16:45 Fiber loading, truck mixing, and added time at the plant 17:17 How much time can contractors save by eliminating bar placement? 19:47 EPDs, GWP, and carbon reduction with fiber reinforcement 22:13 Why finishers struggle with some fiber-reinforced slabs 26:43 Type IL cement, paste, timing, and fiber finishing concerns 30:05 Fly ash, slag, mix design complexity, and owner expectations 31:54 What engineers need to understand before using fibers 35:03 TJ’s main takeaway: Start with design, not just substitution 37:06 How to contact TJ Lambert GUEST INFO TJ Lambert Sales Engineering Manager, Forta / Helix Steel Profile: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/tj-lambert/ Forta website: https://fortacorp.com Helix Steel website: https://helixsteel.com CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Concrete Logic Academy is built for people who actually work with concrete. Not theory for theory’s sake. Not another seminar full of recycled slides. Not some polished presentation from people who have not been near a pour in years. This is practical concrete education for contractors, producers, engineers, architects, QC teams, plant managers, finishers, and anyone else who has to make decisions before the mud hits the ground. If you want to better understand mixes, specs, reinforcement, troubleshooting, field problems, and how to make better calls on real projects, check it out. Start here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/concreteschool SUPPORT THE PODCAST If the Concrete Logic Podcast helps you think differently, solve a problem, avoid a mistake, or make a better decision, send some value back. That could be $5. That could be $50. That could be more. The point is simple. If the show is worth something to you, help keep it going. Donate here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com You can also support the show through our KUIU affiliate link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email Seth: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett & Concrete Logic Media Music by Mike Dunton: https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Like, subscribe, comment, and share the episode with someone who works around concrete.

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  • S1 · E155
    April 30 · 33 min

    EP #155: EPDs, Data Centers, and the New Paperwork Hitting Concrete Producers

    This episode is brought to you by GPRS. GPRS helps keep your projects moving by locating what is hidden before you cut, core, drill, or trench. From ground-penetrating radar and utility locating to concrete scanning and 3D laser scanning, GPRS gives contractors better information before work starts. Learn more or request a quote here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/gprs ON THIS EPISODE OF THE CONCRETE LOGIC PODCAST Ready-mix producers are being asked for EPDs more often, especially on data center and large infrastructure projects. But what are EPDs? Who is asking for them? And why should a small producer care? In this episode, Seth talks with Leise Sandeman, co-founder of Pathways, about Environmental Product Declarations, life cycle assessments, carbon reporting, and how these requirements are starting to affect concrete bids. Leise explains EPDs in plain language: what data goes into them, how cement, aggregate, admixtures, water, fuel, electricity, and transportation all get measured, and why producers should not assume this is only a “green building” paperwork exercise. The big point? EPDs are becoming part of how some owners, GCs, and hyperscale data center companies compare concrete producers. And for smaller ready-mix companies, the risk is not just the carbon number. It is being left out of the bid entirely because they do not have the documentation ready. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN What is an EPD? Why are data center owners asking concrete producers for EPDs? How does a life cycle assessment connect to a concrete mix? What data does a ready-mix producer need to create an EPD? Why can two plants from the same producer have different EPD numbers? How much of a concrete EPD is driven by cement? Are owners comparing concrete producers against each other? Why might simply having an EPD help a producer win work in some markets? How could EPDs affect smaller 2-to-10-plant ready-mix operations? Why does Leise think EPDs are becoming more about business than climate messaging? CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro and Concrete Logic Podcast support 03:15 - Who Leise Sandeman is and what Pathways does 03:52 - What is an EPD? 04:35 - Who is asking for EPDs? 05:54 - Where EPDs came from and how LCAs fit in 06:48 - Comparing concrete to other materials and other producers 07:36 - How cement and material supplier data affect EPDs 08:33 - Why EPDs involve a lot of math and manual work 09:07 - Generic EPDs vs producer-specific EPDs 10:09 - The three major data inputs for a concrete EPD 11:24 - Why utility and grid data matter 12:07 - What owners and hyperscalers compare 13:48 - How far the life cycle assessment goes 15:28 - How cement EPDs are built 16:12 - Does the EPD stop at placement? 17:16 - End-of-life questions and future standards 18:42 - Concrete’s carbon footprint vs material volume 20:29 - Why supplier choices can change the EPD number 21:21 - Why smaller producers need a simpler path 23:42 - Where EPD requirements may be heading 24:04 - Why EPD publishing is expected to grow 25:21 - Future inputs, fuels, SCMs, and supplier options 26:34 - How to contact Leise and Pathways GUEST INFO Leise Sandeman Guest Profile: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/leise-sandeman/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Tired of getting your concrete education from a PowerPoint presentation given by some guy who has probably never stepped in mud? Or someone who does not know what diesel smells like next to that first chute of concrete in the predawn darkness? That is why Concrete Logic Academy exists. It is built by people who understand the field, the plant, the jobsite, and the real problems concrete professionals deal with every day. The courses are practical, direct, and built for people who want to apply what they learn right away. Inside the Academy, you get access to PDH courses, quizzes, resources, live Q&A, early access to podcast episodes, and a place to ask concrete questions without throwing them out into the LinkedIn circus. For a limited time, get free access to the Concrete Logic Academy here: https://www.concreteschool.co SUPPORT THE PODCAST The Concrete Logic Podcast runs on a value-for-value model. If the show gives you something useful, send some value back. Donate here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/support/ Want to support the show another way? Check out KUIU through the Concrete Logic link: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in sponsoring the podcast or working with Concrete Logic Media? Email: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Host: Seth Tandett Producers: Jodi Tandett & Concrete Logic Media Music: Mike Dunton https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND SETH Concrete Logic Podcast Website: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/ Like, subscribe, comment, and share the episode if it helped you understand where EPDs are headed in concrete.

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  • S1 · E154
    April 21 · 34 min

    EP #154: Why Concrete Is on the Critical Path for AI Data Centers

    PRESENTED BY: GPRS Construction professionals know that utilities and concrete reinforcements can cause big problems when you’re on the job. GPRS helps you avoid them. We use ground penetrating radar to detect rebar, conduit, and post tension cables before you cut, core, or drill. And our concrete scans are 99.8% accurate - we guarantee it - helping you reduce hits, downtime, expenses, and keep your people safe. To keep your jobsite safer, visit: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/GPRS SUMMARY Data centers may look like simple boxes, but the race to build them is changing everything for concrete. In this episode, Doug Mouton explains why concrete is still one of the most important materials in the data center boom, even if it is only a small slice of the total cost. He breaks down what is driving the explosion in hyperscale and AI data centers, why projects are moving into rural areas, and why concrete supply, logistics, and mix design need to be thought through much earlier than most teams are used to. This is a big-picture episode, but it gets practical fast. If you work in concrete and want to understand where the data center market is headed and what owners actually want, this one will help. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why data centers are growing so fast right now What a data center actually is and how it works Why AI is pushing demand far beyond traditional cloud computing Why more data centers are being built in rural areas How labor, materials, and logistics get harder as projects move farther out Why concrete becomes a critical path item even if it is a small part of total project cost What hyperscale owners want from concrete suppliers and contractors Why speed, cost, and lower embodied carbon are all being pushed at the same time Why leaner structural designs may be the easiest way to reduce concrete use Why concrete supply needs to be planned much earlier on gigascale projects How power infrastructure is creating even more demand for concrete What future energy storage systems could mean for the concrete industry CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro and Doug Mouton’s background 01:20 - How to support the podcast 03:20 - Why concrete matters so much to data center growth 05:26 - What a data center actually is 06:30 - Why cloud computing changed everything 08:20 - How AI is driving a second wave of data center demand 09:41 - Why more data centers are moving into rural areas 11:20 - Rural pushback, trucking, roads, and local disruption 12:32 - Why rural projects make labor and materials even harder 13:15 - What owners and developers actually want from concrete 15:05 - Speed, ESG pressure, and embodied carbon goals 16:05 - Why concrete procurement is still too fragmented 18:00 - Why concrete suppliers need a seat at the table earlier 19:02 - How leaner design can cut carbon, cost, and schedule 20:13 - Seth’s skepticism on new low-carbon materials at scale 21:39 - Why scale and supply chain reality still matter 22:05 - Why concrete planning should start at the very beginning 23:32 - How power infrastructure creates even more concrete demand 24:05 - Massive towers, gravity batteries, and future energy storage ideas 25:00 - Using AI to make steel and rebar design more efficient 25:35 - Will data centers get smaller, denser, and stiffer? 26:20 - Wrap-up and final thoughts GUEST INFO Douglas Mouton Mouton Advisory Services https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/guests/douglas-mouton/ CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Need PDHs that are actually worth your time? The Concrete Logic Academy is built for engineers, contractors, and concrete professionals who want practical training they can actually use - not another boring seminar that gets forgotten by tomorrow. Use it for PDHs. Use it for lunch and learns. Use it to get smarter on concrete without wasting half your day. Real topics. Real field problems. Real conversations. Start your free trial here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/pro SUPPORT THE PODCAST If this episode helped you... If you learned something... If it made you think differently... Support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/donate This podcast runs on Value for Value. Give whatever you think the episode was worth. PARTNERS KUIU (performance gear Seth actually uses): https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in advertising or working with us? Email: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Jodi Tandett & Concrete Logic Media Music by Mike Dunton: https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND CONCRETE LOGIC Website: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethtandett/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/concretelogicpodcast/

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  • S1 · E153
    April 14 · 37 min

    EP #153: Your Concrete Mix Design Still Isn’t Ready… Until You Do This

    PRESENTED BY: GPRS Construction professionals know that utilities and concrete reinforcements can cause big problems when you’re on the job. GPRS helps you avoid them. We use ground penetrating radar to detect rebar, conduit, and post tension cables before you cut, core, or drill. And our concrete scans are 99.8% accurate - we guarantee it - helping you reduce hits, downtime, expenses, and keep your people safe. To keep your jobsite safer, visit: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/GPRS SUMMARY Last episode, Dr. Jon Belkowitz walked through how to build a concrete mix design on paper. This episode picks up where that left off. Because a design mix is not the same thing as a batch mix. Dr. Jon breaks down the final adjustments that have to happen before that mix can actually be used in production, including moisture corrections, free water, and admixture dosages. If you have ever wondered how a mix goes from a neat set of numbers on paper to something a plant can actually batch, this episode clears it up. WHAT YOU’LL LEARN Why a design mix is not the same as a batch mix How aggregate moisture changes your sand and rock weights What “free water” really means and why it matters How moisture in the aggregates affects water-cement ratio How to calculate the water coming from sand and stone How admixture dosage is calculated from cement content Why admixtures also add water to the mix How to calculate final batch water What the final adjusted batch mix looks like Why contractors and engineers should understand this math even if the plant computer does it for them CHAPTERS 00:00 - Intro and how to support the show 02:15 - Why people are actually using the podcast on the job 02:36 - Concrete Logic Academy and PDHs 03:36 - Picking up where the last mix design episode ended 04:22 - What has to change to move from design mix to batch mix 05:44 - The project assumptions for this slab mix 06:28 - Where moisture content and absorption values come from 08:13 - Adjusting sand weight for moisture 10:54 - Adjusting rock weight for moisture 12:05 - What free water is and why it affects your mix 13:24 - Calculating free water from the sand 14:33 - Calculating free water from the rock 15:24 - Admixture dosage explained 16:16 - Calculating admixture ounces per cubic yard 17:28 - Calculating how much water the admixture brings 18:47 - Final batch water calculation 19:34 - Final adjusted batch mix 20:38 - What happens next at the plant 21:03 - Why admixtures are mostly water 24:51 - Withholding water and adjusting slump at the plant 26:53 - How admixture dispensing systems work 29:25 - Wrap-up and what to cover next time GUEST INFO Dr. Jon Belkowitz Intelligent Concrete Website: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/intelligent-concrete CONCRETE LOGIC ACADEMY Got a concrete problem no one can explain? Bring it to the Concrete Logic Academy. Ask questions. Share what you’re seeing. Get real answers you can use on the next pour. Simple as that. Free trial for pros here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/pro SUPPORT THE PODCAST If this episode helped you... If you learned something... If it made you think differently... Support the show here: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com This podcast runs on Value for Value. Give whatever you think the episode was worth. PARTNERS KUIU (performance gear Seth actually uses): https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com/kuiu Interested in advertising or working with us? Email: seth@concretelogicpodcast.com CREDITS Producers: Joseph Swann, Jodi Tandett & Concrete Logic Media Music by Mike Dunton: https://www.mdunton.com/ WHERE TO FIND CONCRETE LOGIC Website: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/sethtandett/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/concretelogicpodcast/

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Showing 1–20 of 23 episodes