A residential concrete project, like a driveway, patio, or foundation, follows a structured workflow to ensure quality and durability. Here’s what to expect:
1. Planning and Design:
• Consultation: Discuss project goals with us—size, shape, finish (e.g., stamped, stained), and budget.
• Site Assessment: Evaluate the site for soil conditions, drainage, and accessibility.
• Permits: Obtain necessary permits, if required-based on local regulations (e.g., for structural work like foundations).
• Quote and Contract: Receive a detailed cost estimate and timeline, then ok the agreement.
2. Site Preparation:
• Clearing: Remove vegetation, debris, or old concrete.
• Excavation: Dig to the required depth (e.g., 4-6 inches for driveways, deeper for foundations).
• Grading: Level and compact the soil to ensure a stable base.
• Formwork: Install wooden or metal forms to shape the concrete.
• Base Layer: Add and compact gravel or crushed stone for stability and drainage.
3. Reinforcement:
• Install rebar, wire mesh, or fiber reinforcement to enhance strength, especially for load-bearing surfaces like driveways or slabs.
• Ensure proper spacing and elevation of reinforcement to avoid cracking.
4. Concrete Pouring:
• Mixing: Concrete is mixed on-site or delivered via a ready-mix truck, tailored to project specs (e.g., PSI strength, typically 3,000-4,000 for residential).
• Pouring: Concrete is poured into forms, spread evenly, and leveled with screeds.
• Finishing: Surface is smoothed with trowels, and textures or patterns (e.g., broom finish, stamping) are applied if desired.
5. Curing:
• Initial Set: Concrete begins hardening within hours but remains workable for finishing.
• Curing Process: Keep concrete moist (using water, curing compounds, or blankets) for 7-28 days to prevent cracking and ensure strength.
• Avoid heavy use (e.g., driving on a new driveway) for at least 7 days.
Questions? Just ask us.