FAQs Flatwork
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What is concrete flatwork?
Concrete flatwork includes driveways, patios, sidewalks, walkways, garage floors, and concrete pads. These are horizontal concrete surfaces finished smooth or textured for daily use.
How thick should concrete be?
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Patios and sidewalks are typically 4 inches thick. Driveways are usually 4–5 inches, and heavy vehicle areas may need 5–6 inches. A compacted gravel base and reinforcement are critical for longevity.
Why does concrete crack?
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All concrete cracks due to shrinkage and temperature changes. Control joints help guide cracking into clean, straight lines instead of random breaks. Minor cracking is normal and cosmetic.
How long before I can use new concrete?
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Walk after 24 hours. Light furniture after 48–72 hours. Vehicles after 7 days. Concrete reaches full strength at about 28 days.
What finishes are available?
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Common finishes include broom finish (most popular), smooth trowel, exposed aggregate, and stamped concrete. Each offers different appearance, traction, and cost levels.
Do I need rebar or wire mesh?
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Yes. Reinforcement strengthens slabs and controls cracking. Wire mesh works for light-duty areas, while rebar grids are recommended for driveways and high-load zones.
How long does concrete flatwork last?
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With proper installation and care, concrete flatwork typically lasts 25–40+ years. Keeping water away and sealing periodically greatly extends its life.
Sealing protects against stains, moisture, and surface wear. Most slabs should be sealed about 30 days after pouring and resealed every 2–3 years.
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Should I seal my concrete?
Pricing depends on square footage, excavation, base prep, thickness, reinforcement, finish type, and site access. Proper preparation often matters more than slab size.
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What affects the cost?
FAQs Foundations
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What is a concrete foundation?
A concrete foundation is the structural base of your home or building. It includes footings, foundation walls or stem walls, and often a slab. Everything above relies on the foundation for support.
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What types of concrete foundations are common?
The most common residential foundations are slab-on-grade, crawlspace, and full basement foundations. Your soil, budget, and local building codes determine which type is best for your project.
How deep are concrete footings?
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Footings typically extend 12–24 inches below grade at minimum and must reach below the frost line where required. They are wider than the walls they support and help distribute building loads evenly into the soil.
Why is rebar used in foundations?
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Concrete is strong in compression but weak in tension. Rebar adds tensile strength, helping resist cracking, settlement, and soil movement. Proper reinforcement greatly increases foundation durability.
How thick are foundation walls and slabs?
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Typical residential foundation walls are 6–8 inches thick. Slabs are usually 4–5 inches thick. Footings are commonly 16–24 inches wide depending on load requirements.
Why does foundation concrete crack?
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All concrete cracks due to shrinkage during curing, temperature changes, and soil movement. Hairline cracks are normal. Structural concerns usually involve widening cracks, displacement, or moisture intrusion.
Light work can begin after 24–48 hours. Framing typically starts after 5–7 days. Concrete reaches full strength at approximately 28 days, though it continues gaining strength over time.
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How long does a concrete foundation take to cure?
Do foundations need waterproofing?
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Yes, especially crawlspace and basement foundations. Waterproof membranes, drain tile, gravel backfill, and damp-proof coatings help prevent moisture problems and extend foundation life.
How long should a concrete foundation last?
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With proper installation, reinforcement, and drainage, concrete foundations commonly last 50–100+ years.