Frequently Asks Questions

Most cracks that form during the construction process can be minimized.

1. Start with a sound subgrade. Make sure the subgrade is compacted.
2. Modify the concrete mix. Use a low water-to-cement ratio.
3. Install the joints. Be active where control joints will be placed.
4. Properly cure the concrete.
5. Isolate joints separating the concrete from an object such as a drain.

Cement is an ingredient used to make concrete. The cement is what reacts to the water in the mix and becomes the glue of the cement, holding it together and making it strong.

The solution is to put reinforced concrete permanently into compression by prestressing it (also called pretensioning). Use rebar for structural reinforcement. Place the rebar vertically and horizontally in 4-foot sections creating a grid pattern. Or using fiber mesh or wire mesh preventing cracks from forming. Fibers are much more lightweight and tend to stay in position better. Fiber mesh tends to be less expensive and requires far less labor to install. By using the rebar and the fiber mesh you build an effective support system to reinforce your concrete project.

Concrete that freezes at an early age can lose much of its overall strength. Done properly, concrete poured in cool weather is actually stronger than concrete poured in hot weather, thanks to the slow curing period. When outdoor temperatures are below 20 degrees Fahrenheit, it is best to simply abandon the idea of pouring concrete. Admixers such as water reducers or accelerators can be added to concrete to combat potential issues. With those additions, the only times’ that are not recommended are when it is raining or freezing temperatures.

Measure the length and width that you’d like to cover. Multiply the length by the width to determine the square footage. Convert the thickness from inches to feet. Multiply the thickness in feet by the square footage to determine the amount of concrete you will need to order in cubic yards, the standard measurement by which contractor order concrete.

The strength of concrete is measured in pounds per square inch (PSI) and is a measurement of the concrete’s ability to carry loads or handle compression. The higher the number, the stronger the concrete. For example, most contractors use between 3000 PSI and 5000 PSI for residential applications such as driveways and garage floors. That would make the concrete to hold firm underneath more than 3000 to 5000 pounds.

To allow the concrete ample time to strengthen and harden, we recommend waiting between 10 and 14 days to use concrete driveways on garage floors.

Although it may be tempting to roll up your sleeves, mix up some concrete, and tackle a concrete project yourself to save money, you will likely spend most of your time preparing for the project. From planning a complete and realistic budget to considering help from professional concrete contractors for certain steps of the project to making sure your project is allowed by the local permitting office, there’s a lot to do before you start mixing up that gray matter! Pouring and finishing concrete is hard work, and often the convenience of hiring a contractor outweighs the enticement of a challenge for most homeowners.

Although concrete is an extremely durable product, the following care and maintenance guidelines will add to the value of your investment: Do not apply deicing chemicals for snow and ice removal during the winter. To provide traction, sand is recommended. If absolutely necessary we suggest using magnesium or potassium-based deicer. They are less damaging to the concrete. However, keeping the snow away by shoveling is the best suggestion.

There are many options for upgrading concrete. Add color directly into the concrete mix. Stamp the concrete to look like brick or stone. Stamp the concrete is not only pleasing to the eye it also helps disguise any future flaws form being quite as noticeable.