-
Do I need to be home during the process? How do I prepare?
No, you do not need to be there while we are working. However, we usually need access to a water source (hose hookup) and a power outlet for electricity (we have our own extension cords). It is helpful if you can mark any sprinkler lines, or let us know ahead of time where those are. We take care of having any utility lines marked before we begin the project.
-
How long will my job take?
The time a concrete job will take depends mainly on the size of the concrete pad, and also on shape or complexity. A basic concrete patio or driveway normally takes about a week, although projects that involve other landscaping can vary greatly in the amount of time they take. Installing pavers is a longer, more labor-intensive process and can take anywhere from 1-3 weeks on average, depending again on the size of the job.
-
How far down do you dig to prep the ground?
For a concrete patio, we excavate for about 4 inches of base and about 4 inches for concrete, for a total depth of 7 to 8 inches. We make sure that our base and all prep work is properly compacted to provide the best possible foundation for all concrete and pavers that we lay.
-
Will there be damage to my yard?
Most small projects shouldn’t cause damage to your yard. Larger projects require equipment and trucks that can sometimes cause damage; however, we always do our best to repair any damage. Our goal is to leave each yard better than we found it!
-
Will the color fade over time?
Over time, weathering will occur, and the colors in your stamped or stained concrete may dull. Sealing your concrete minimizes color fading. We recommend periodically cleaning and resealing the concrete every 2-3 years. This will keep your project looking beautiful.
-
Will my new concrete crack or break?
Because we do such high-quality work, your project will last for many years. However, concrete does crack over time, and we obviously can’t control extremes in weather or other harsh conditions that may cause concrete to eventually crack. We use a combination of proven techniques to help prevent cracking, including the use of high-quality concrete, properly compacted road base, wire mesh upon request, and extension joints to try our best to control where the cracks go.
-
Should I use salt to melt snow and ice in the winter?
No, do not use salt! Salt will damage your concrete, especially if it is colored or sealed. Use sand instead. The best way to remove snow is with a plastic shovel (not metal) or use a snow blower.
-
How much will it cost?
Our jobs are estimated based on many factors, including the square footage, style, site preparation, removal of large objects, and installation time. Feel free to contact us anytime for a free estimate!