Below are some questions our clients frequently ask us. If you can’t find the answer to your question, feel free to contact us today. We are here to help.
1. What is Stamped Concrete?
Stamped concrete involves pouring concrete and imprinting a pattern or texture onto the concrete before it completely dries. The imprint is designed to make the concrete look and feel like other types of materials, such as stone, slate, brick, tile and wood. View our
Gallery to see for yourself!
Stamped concrete is different from pavers or similar surfaces because it is imprinted into a single slab of concrete. Pavers are sectioned pieces of concrete that are used to create a pattern that are not tied together to make a singular piece of concrete.
2. How Long Does It Take for Concrete to Dry?
For foot trafiic, to be safe, 2 days. For non-commercial vehicles to drive on, 7-10 days.
3. How Long Does it Take for Concrete to Cure?
Concrete can partially cure within seven to ten days. However, it can take up to 28 days for it to fully cure. It depends on the weather conditions and the mixture of the concrete. We recommend waiting for at least seven to ten days before you put any heavy equipment on the concrete.
4. How Much Does Concrete Cost?
The cost of concrete is based on square feet, equipment access and landscape geography. Contact us today for a
free estimate of your project.
5. What Type of Maintenance Does Concrete Require?
We recommend you hire a professional cleaning company to clean the concrete at least once a year. You also need to reseal decorative concrete every 2-3 years. Driveways need to be resealed 2 years after installation with a penetrating sealer. Follow manufacturer’s recommendation on when driveway should be sealed next, typically 7 years later.
6. What Qualifications Should I Look for in a Concrete Contractor?
A reputable concrete company should have the following qualifications:
- Licensure, certification, and insurance
- Demonstrable experience
- Positive customer reviews (you can find these online)
- Positive, recent references
- A portfolio of past work
- A professional website
- An honest, accurate, and fair estimate
- Some type of guarantee (warranty) of work performed
7. Why Should I Choose Concrete Over Other Types of Surfaces?
- Concrete is affordable when you consider longevity.
- Concrete can last 50+ years with basic maintenance.
- Concrete can handle extreme weight from large and heavy equipment.
- Concrete offers unique designs and shapes.
- Concrete holds up extremely well against the outside elements.
8. How long does a typical job take?
Typically, 2-3 days from demo to completion.
9. When can I walk on my new concrete?
For
patios, 1-2 days after sealing. For
driveways, 1-2 days after saw cutting.
10. When can I drive on my new concrete?
7-10 days after it was poured.
11. When can I put patio furniture on my new patio?
7 days after the concrete is sealed. Please also place protective caps or glides on your metal patio furniture to minimize damage to your new patio.
12. What maintenance is required on a patio?
Re-seal every 2 years & add a non-slip product as well to make it safer to walk on when wet or snowy. Use plastic tipped shovels so you don’t scratch the surface of your new patio.
13. What maintenance is required on my driveway?
Apply a penetrating sealer after 2 years. After the first reapplication of sealer, refer to the manufacturer’s recommendation for frequency of sealer application thereafter, because it varies by product.
14. How long does concrete last vs. asphalt?
Properly maintained concrete can last 50+ years compared to asphalt which can last up to 20 years.
15. Does colored concrete fade?
No. It may look like it if the sealer is wearing off.
16. How do I know when to seal Concrete?
If your concrete looks better when it rains or if it is wet, it is time for a new coat of sealer.
If you are looking for a professional concrete service for your home or business, contact Creative Concrete. We can meet with you on-site to discuss your upcoming concrete project. To find out more about our services or schedule a consultation, call us today at 612-414-7932, or you can fill out our contact form for a free estimate.