Frequently Asked Questions for Concrete Contractors
Q: Why choose a Diamond Certified concrete contractor?
A: Diamond Certified helps you choose a concrete contractor with confidence by offering a list of top rated local companies that have passed the country’s most in-depth rating process. Only concrete contractors rated Highest in Quality and Helpful Expertise earn the prestigious Diamond Certified award. Most companies can’t pass the ratings. American Ratings Corporation also monitors every Diamond Certified company with ongoing research and ratings. And your purchase is backed by the Diamond Certified Performance Guarantee, so you’ll feel confident choosing a Diamond Certified concrete contractor.
Q: Are concrete and cement the same thing?
A: They are not the same thing although many use the terms interchangeably. Cement is used to make concrete. Cement is mixed with other things including water and it then turns into a mass that becomes hardened and is called concrete.
Q: What is slump used for?
A: Slump is the amount of water in concrete mix which shows its consistency. The lower the slump the dryer the mix will be. If water is added to the mix past what is specified, it can result in reduced strength and the possibility that the surface will deteriorate.
Q: Is it necessary to take the topsoil before pouring concrete?
A: Topsoil does need to be removed before the concrete is placed. Topsoil and other organic material are too unstable to support slabs of concrete. The subgrade of cement should contain no organic material and this is very important for having a quality concrete slab.
Q: What kind of decorative finishes can I get for concrete?
A: Concrete is available in almost any shape, pattern and color. There are many specialty materials available such as concrete forms, stamps, dyes, texture patterns, and stains, etc. These applications can be used both inside and outside of your home. If you can imagine the decorative finish, it can be done by a skilled concrete contractor.
Q: Do I need a concrete contractor for my project?
A: Concrete work requires knowledge and skill. There are fundamental skills that the average homeowner does not have. Some basic skills that are required are using a hammer, chalk lines, and saws; however, more specialized skills include the use of straightedge, a concrete edger, a hand float and others.
Besides the use of tools, other areas of expertise include site excavation, preparing the subgrade, putting in concrete form. These areas and the work of placing and finishing concrete is very difficult work. Also, concrete is quite heavy and the timing of the finishing of the project is critical. For all of these reasons and more, most homeowners feel that it is necessary to hire a concrete contractor to do their concrete project.
Q: How long does a concrete driveway need to cure?
A: The recommended time can be any time from three to seven days depending on the load that will be on it. Ask your concrete contractor for specific directions on when your driveway can be put back in service.
Q: How often do I need to seal my concrete driveway?
A: Your concrete needs to air dry for 30 days before you apply a sealer. A sealer prevents moisture from entering the concrete which helps keep the concrete from deteriorating during weather cycles of freezing and thawing. Sealers are usually effective for a couple of years but ask your concrete contractor for specific application rates.
Q: Why is curing important for concrete?
A: Curing keeps your concrete at the appropriate moisture content. If the curing is not done correctly, it can cut the strength of your concrete by a large percentage. Proper curing also keeps your concrete from cracking and shrinking.
Q: How do I maintain concrete?
A: Concrete needs to be frequently cleaned with sweeping and hosing it every so often. Keep wet leaves off of concrete as they may stain the concrete.
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