Benefits of Using Concrete

A great foundation is a key to a beautiful, functional home and yard. Create a relaxing ambiance and transform your backyard into a tranquil oasis! From patios to pool decks, to walkways, and more! Concrete features endless opportunities to create a beautiful, custom addition to your home and yard, thanks to its versatility and durability.

Why is Concrete So Popular?

Cost-Effective

Concrete is one of the most affordable options for large projects, such as a driveway or patio, with a more economical price than other materials, including brick, stone, and wood. In addition, it can provide an elegant and attractive appearance without the hefty price tag, compared to other hardscape materials.

Versatility

One of the primary reasons homeowners choose to use concrete is its versatility and ability to be tailored to suit your style. It can be customized to mimic the appearance of other materials like stone, wood, brick, or tile and can be either stamped, engraved, stenciled, exposed, or stained. The possibilities are endless! Check out our gallery for inspiration.

Durability

Unlike many other patio materials, concrete has an impressively long lifespan if installed and maintained correctly. In addition, it’s strong enough to withstand severe weather conditions such as cold, heat, rain, snow, and ice. It also holds up well to constant foot traffic and the weight of heavy machinery and vehicles.

Norms and Code

If directly supported on the ground, the thickness of a concrete slab should be no less than 3 1/2 inches. Additionally, a 6-mil polyethylene vapor retarder with joints must be placed between the concrete floor slab and the base to be up to code. The American Concrete Institute details all the norms and codes for different areas of your property.

Maintenance

Although concrete is durable and long-lasting with or without maintenance, taking care of your new surface will extend its lifespan and will keep it looking brand new. To maintain the beauty and functionality of your investment, it is best to:

● Clean it regularly to remove dirt, oil, rust, and other stains.
● Repair cracks to maintain the integrity of the concrete and to protect it from water damage.
● Seal joints to prevent the accumulation of weeds, dirt, and water.
● Seal the surface to repel water and to avoid sun damage and scratches.

Curing Process

One of the most critical steps after pouring fresh concrete is the curing process that follows. Curing your concrete will ensure the structural integrity, longevity, and beauty of your new patio or driveway. To cure your concrete, you may either:

● Spray water directly onto the surface 7-10 times per day for the first week.
● Hose down the concrete, then cover with a polyethylene sheet or curing blanket to trap moisture.
● Apply a curing compound to create a protective film on the surface of the concrete.
● Build temporary beams to create a frame on top of the new concrete slab, and then fill the area with water.

With proper installation and maintenance, concrete is ideal for beautiful patios, driveways, walkways, and more! Its longevity makes it well worth the investment, and its strength, versatility, and easy maintenance ensure that your surface maintains its radiance for many years to come!