What is Alkali-Aggregate Reaction (AAR). Alkali-aggregate reaction (AAR) is a chemical reaction between the alkali in Portland cement and reactive minerals in aggregate and additives that takes place when moisture is present.herefore with aggregates falling in deleterious zone, Use of low alkali cement is recommended to prevent any chances of ASR occurrence. 1  Alkali-silica, a reaction between the alkali hydroxides in concrete and reactive forms of silica in aggregate (e.g., chert, quartzite, opal, strained quartz crystals); 2  Alkali-silicate, a reaction between the ....
For solid hardwood flooring, both unfinished and prefinished, acclimation is a must. The same thing for laminate flooring. Keep it in the house for at least 48 hours prior to installation. The negative effects of not acclimating your hardwood floors before installation can be either buckling or gaps between the boards.
Foam core structural insulated panels are built in a factory, shipped to the jobsite, and assembled. | Photo courtesy of Michael Baechler. Insulation in your home provides resistance to heat flow. The more heat flow resistance your insulation provides, the lower your heating and cooling costs.he amount of insulation or R-value you'll need depends on your climate, type of heating and cooling system, and the part of the house you plan to insulate. To learn more, see our information on adding insulation to an existing house or insulating a new house.