When concrete fails, who’s really at fault—the material or the people using it?


In this episode of the Concrete Logic Podcast, host Seth Tandett is joined by Dr. Jon and Rich to tackle the growing frustrations with Type 1L cement. They ask the hard questions: Is cement the problem? Are the specs off? Or is the industry just cutting corners? The conversation hits on the real-world consequences of poorly defined problems, regional quirks, and the disconnect between American and European concrete practices.


If you’re trying to figure out why your mix isn’t performing the way it used to, this one’s for you.


What You'll Learn 

• Is Type 1L cement actually the problem—or is it how we're using it? 
• How do regional differences change concrete performance? 
• What lessons can we learn from European construction practices? 
• Why might specs that look good on paper still cause problems in the field? 
• How can you prevent the cumulative effects of small material changes from derailing a project? 

 


Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Type 1L Cement Challenges
01:51 Defining the Problem: Material, Practitioner, or Other Factors
04:12 The Importance of Explicit Problem Definition
06:18 Regional Variations and Their Impact on Concrete Performance
08:39 The Role of Specifications and Methods in Concrete Quality
11:29 Comparing European and American Concrete Practices
13:53 The Need for Systematic Changes in Concrete Methods
16:48 Conclusion: A Holistic Approach to Concrete Issues


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Guest: Rich Szecsy, Big Town Concrete


Guest Website: https://www.bigtownconcrete.com/


Producer: Tom Cummings, Jodi Tandett


Music by: Mike Dunton (Instagram: @Mike_Dunton)


Stay Connected & Watch More!


Host: Seth Tandett
Email: [email protected]
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/seth-tandett/
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@concretelogicpodcast
Website: https://www.concretelogicpodcast.com

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