Concrete and cement are not the same. Many use the terms interchangeably. Cement is used to make concrete (an ingredient in the cake). Cement is mixed with water and then turns into a mass that becomes hardened called concrete.

Slump is the amount of water in concrete which shows its consistency. The lesser the slump the dryer the mix will be. If water is added to the mix past what is required, it can result in reduced strength and the chance that the surface will deteriorate.

Topsoil needs to be removed before the concrete is placed. Topsoil and other organic materials are unstable to support slabs of concrete. The subgrade of concrete should have no organic material This is important for having a quality concrete slab.

Concrete is available in almost any pattern, shape, and color. There are many specialty materials available including concrete forms, stamps, dyes, texture patterns, and stains, etc. The applications can be used inside and outside of your home. If you can envision the decorative finish, it can be done by one of our skilled concrete contractors.

There are fundamental concrete skills that the average homeowner does not have. Basic skills that are required including using a hammer, chalk lines, and saws. More specialized skills include the use of straightedge, a concrete edger, a hand float and more.

Besides tools, other areas of expertise include site excavation, preparing the subgrade, and putting in concrete form. Placing and finishing concrete is very difficult work. Concrete is heavy and the timing of the finishing of the project is critical. Most homeowners feel that it is necessary to hire a concrete contractor to do concrete projects.

Any time from 3-7 days depending on the load that will be on it. Talk to your concrete contractor for directions on when your driveway can be put back in service.

We recommend to seal your concrete initially and every 2-3 years depending on sun exposure. Sealer prevents moisture from entering the concrete and helps keep the concrete from deteriorating during weather cycles of freezing and thawing. Sealers are effective for a couple of years. Ask your concrete contractor for specific application rates.

Clean your concrete frequently with sweeping and hosing it every so often. Keep wet leaves off of concrete as they stain the concrete. In the winter, do not use salt as a form of ice melt. Calcium flake or non-chloride is the preferred form to melt ice.

Colder months add additional variables that need to be considered when installing concrete. Depending on the expertise and equipment, advancements in concrete allow for all year around service and installation.