Complete Guide to Concrete Services

Concrete is one of the most versatile and durable building materials available, serving as the foundation for residential and commercial structures while creating functional outdoor spaces. Understanding concrete services, from new installation to repair and maintenance, helps property owners make informed decisions about this essential material that can last 30-50 years or more with proper care.

Overview of Concrete Services

Professional concrete services encompass everything from foundation work to decorative flatwork. Concrete contractors bring expertise in materials, design, proper installation techniques, finishing methods, and reinforcement strategies that ensure strength, durability, and aesthetic appeal. The concrete industry has evolved significantly with specialized mixes, decorative finishes, and advanced techniques that expand possibilities beyond basic gray slabs.

Quality concrete work requires knowledge of soil conditions, proper base preparation, reinforcement methods, climate considerations, and finishing techniques. Professional contractors understand these variables and apply them to create concrete structures that resist cracking, settling, and deterioration.

Types of Concrete Services

Foundation Work

Concrete foundations support entire structures and must be engineered and installed correctly. Types include slab-on-grade foundations (most common for residential, concrete slab poured directly on prepared soil), crawl space foundations (perimeter footings and walls with accessible space beneath), basement foundations (full-height concrete walls creating additional living space), and pier and beam foundations (concrete piers supporting wooden beams).

Foundation work requires excavation, proper drainage systems, reinforcement with rebar, accurate pouring and leveling, appropriate curing time, and waterproofing. This is the most critical concrete work requiring experienced professionals and often structural engineering oversight.

Driveways

Concrete driveways offer durability, low maintenance, and design flexibility. Standard driveways are 4-6 inches thick, reinforced with wire mesh or rebar, and properly sloped for drainage. Decorative options include stamped patterns, exposed aggregate, colored concrete, and saw-cut designs. Properly installed concrete driveways last 25-50 years, far exceeding asphalt longevity.

Patios and Walkways

Concrete patios create outdoor living spaces that can be customized with various finishes. Walkways connect different areas while providing all-weather access. Both applications allow extensive design creativity through stamping, staining, scoring, and aggregate exposure. Thickness typically ranges from 4 inches for walkways to 5-6 inches for patios supporting heavy furniture or fire features.

Garage and Basement Floors

Interior concrete floors must be level, properly sealed, and finished appropriately for their use. Garage floors typically include steel trowel finish for smoothness and durability, proper slope toward drainage, and optional epoxy coating for stain resistance and aesthetics. Basement floors may include integral vapor barriers, insulation beneath slabs in cold climates, and appropriate finishes for planned use.

Retaining Walls

Concrete retaining walls hold back soil and create level areas on sloped properties. They require engineering for walls over 4 feet tall, proper drainage behind wall, reinforcement appropriate to height and soil pressure, and footings below frost line. Alternatives include poured concrete, concrete block construction, and precast modular systems.

Steps and Stairs

Concrete steps provide durable access between elevation changes. They require precise forming for consistent rise and run, appropriate tread depth for safety (minimum 11 inches), proper pitch for drainage and traction, reinforcement for cantilevered or attached steps, and finishing for slip resistance. Building codes specify requirements for dimensions and handrails.

Decorative Concrete

Decorative concrete transforms functional surfaces into design features through stamped concrete (textured patterns resembling stone, brick, or tile), stained concrete (acid stains or water-based stains for color), polished concrete (ground and polished for smooth, glossy finish), exposed aggregate (revealing decorative stones in mix), and overlays (thin decorative layers over existing concrete).

Concrete Materials and Mixes

Standard Concrete Mix

Standard concrete combines portland cement, sand, aggregate (stone), and water in specific ratios. Common mix ratios include 1 part cement, 2 parts sand, 3 parts gravel for structural applications. Water-to-cement ratio critically affects strength and durability. Professional contractors order ready-mix concrete specifying compressive strength (PSI), slump (workability), and any additives.

Concrete Strength Ratings

Concrete strength is measured in PSI (pounds per square inch) at 28 days of curing:

2,500 PSI: Basement floors, footings in non-freezing areas
3,000 PSI: Most residential applications, driveways, walkways
3,500-4,000 PSI: Heavy-use driveways, commercial applications
4,500+ PSI: Industrial uses, high-traffic areas

Higher PSI costs more but provides greater durability for demanding applications.

Reinforcement Options

Wire Mesh: Welded wire fabric (typically 6x6 inch grid of 10 gauge wire) placed mid-depth in slab. Prevents cracks from widening but doesn't prevent cracking.

Rebar (Reinforcing Bar): Steel bars in various diameters (#3, #4, #5 most common for residential) placed in grid pattern. Provides structural strength, required for foundations and retaining walls. Must be properly positioned mid-depth or as engineered.

Fiber Reinforcement: Synthetic or metal fibers mixed throughout concrete. Reduces plastic shrinkage cracking, improves impact resistance, and distributes throughout mix. Does not replace structural reinforcement but supplements it.

Additives and Admixtures

Air Entrainment: Creates microscopic air bubbles improving freeze-thaw resistance. Essential for exterior concrete in cold climates.

Accelerators: Speed setting time for cold weather pours or quick turnaround needs. Calcium chloride is common but can cause corrosion.

Retarders: Slow setting time for hot weather or large pours requiring extended working time.

Water Reducers: Improve workability without adding water, maintaining strength.

Color Additives: Integral color throughout concrete mix or surface-applied color hardeners.

Cost Breakdown and Estimates

Basic Concrete Costs

Concrete costs vary by location, access, thickness, finish, and current material prices. National averages include:

Material Costs:

Ready-mix concrete: $100-$150 per cubic yard
Basic 4-inch slab material: $2.50-$4.00 per square foot
6-inch slab material: $4.00-$5.50 per square foot

Installed Costs (including labor):

Basic driveway: $6-$12 per square foot
Decorative driveway: $12-$25 per square foot
Patio or walkway: $6-$15 per square foot
Stamped concrete: $12-$25 per square foot
Garage floor: $5-$10 per square foot
Basement floor: $4-$8 per square foot

Project-Specific Estimates

Driveways:

Single-car (12x20 ft = 240 sq ft): $1,500-$3,000
Double-car (20x20 ft = 400 sq ft): $2,500-$5,000
Large (20x40 ft = 800 sq ft): $5,000-$10,000
Decorative upgrade: Add 50-100%

Patios:

Small (10x10 ft = 100 sq ft): $600-$1,500
Medium (12x14 ft = 168 sq ft): $1,000-$2,500
Large (20x20 ft = 400 sq ft): $2,500-$6,000

Foundations:

Slab foundation (2,000 sq ft home): $7,000-$15,000
Crawl space foundation: $8,000-$20,000
Full basement foundation: $18,000-$40,000

Other Projects:

Concrete steps (3-4 steps): $900-$2,500
Retaining wall: $25-$60 per square foot of wall face
Sidewalk: $5-$12 per square foot

Factors Affecting Cost

Site Preparation: Excavation, grading, and base preparation can add $1-$3 per square foot.

Access: Difficult site access requiring wheelbarrows or pumps instead of direct chute pour adds $500-$2,000.

Removal: Demolition and removal of existing concrete adds $2-$4 per square foot.

Thickness: Each additional inch of thickness adds approximately $0.60-$1.00 per square foot.

Reinforcement: Wire mesh adds $0.30-$0.50 per square foot, rebar adds $0.75-$1.50 per square foot.

Finish: Basic broom finish is standard; smooth trowel adds $0.50-$1.00; decorative finishes add $3-$12 per square foot.

Season: Winter work may cost 10-20% more due to heating and protection requirements.

Choosing Concrete Contractors

Credentials and Experience

Quality concrete contractors should have:

State contractor's license (where required)
General liability insurance (minimum $1 million coverage)
Workers' compensation coverage
Years of experience with specific project type
Portfolio of completed work
References from recent projects
Knowledge of local building codes and soil conditions
Membership in professional associations (American Concrete Institute)

Getting Accurate Estimates

Obtain written estimates from at least three contractors. Quality estimates include:

Site visit and assessment
Detailed scope of work
Concrete specifications (PSI, thickness, reinforcement)
Base preparation requirements
Finish type and details
Timeline for project completion
Warranty information
Itemized cost breakdown
Payment schedule
Permit responsibilities

Essential Questions to Ask

How long have you been doing concrete work?
Are you licensed and insured?
Do you specialize in this type of project?
Can you provide recent references?
What concrete mix do you recommend and why?
What reinforcement will you use?
How do you prepare the base?
What is your process for ensuring proper drainage?
How do you control cracking?
What finish options do you offer?
How long until I can use the concrete?
What is your warranty?
Will you pull required permits?
What is your payment schedule?

Red Flags to Avoid

Avoid contractors who:

Cannot provide proof of insurance
Offer prices significantly below others without explanation
Pressure immediate decisions
Cannot explain their process or materials
Lack references or have poor reviews
Don't discuss site-specific challenges
Propose inadequate thickness or reinforcement
Skip written contracts
Require large deposits (over 30%)
Don't mention permits or inspections when required

Concrete Installation Process

Site Preparation

Proper preparation ensures long-term performance:

Layout and Excavation: Mark project boundaries, excavate to proper depth (typically 8-12 inches below finished grade), ensure proper slope for drainage, and remove organic material.
Base Preparation: Install compacted gravel base (4-6 inches typical), ensure proper compaction (prevents settling), grade for drainage, and install drainage systems if needed.
Forms Installation: Set forms to proper height and alignment, secure firmly to prevent movement, use straight, structurally sound materials, and oil forms for easy removal.
Reinforcement Placement: Position wire mesh or rebar at proper height (typically mid-depth), secure to prevent movement during pour, ensure proper overlap at joints, and maintain proper edge clearance.

Pouring Process

Professional concrete placement includes:

Concrete Ordering: Calculate exact yardage needed plus 5-10% overage, specify appropriate mix design, coordinate delivery timing, and ensure site access for concrete truck.
Placement: Pour concrete systematically to avoid cold joints, work quickly (concrete begins setting immediately), maintain consistent thickness, and consolidate concrete to eliminate air pockets.
Leveling and Screeding: Strike off excess concrete to proper height, use screed boards across forms, work in sections for large pours, and ensure consistent elevation.

Finishing Techniques

Float Finishing: Initial smoothing with bull float eliminates high and low spots while concrete is still workable.

Trowel Finishing: Steel trowel creates smooth, dense surface for interior floors and garages. Multiple passes increase smoothness and density.

Broom Finish: Dragging broom across surface creates texture for slip resistance. Standard for driveways, walkways, and patios.

Exposed Aggregate: Surface retarder prevents top layer from setting, allowing later washing to reveal decorative stone aggregate.

Stamping: Textured mats pressed into fresh concrete create patterns resembling stone, brick, or tile. Requires proper timing and skill.

Control Joints

Control joints create intentional weak points where cracks occur in controlled, less visible locations. Joints should be spaced no more than 10-12 feet apart, cut to 1/4 depth of slab, cut while concrete is still plastic or sawn within 24 hours, and run straight lines (not curves).

Curing

Proper curing develops full strength and durability. Methods include:

Water Curing: Keep surface continuously wet for 7 days. Most effective but labor-intensive.

Curing Compound: Spray-applied membrane seals in moisture. Convenient and effective.

Plastic Sheeting: Cover with plastic to retain moisture. Works well but requires securing.

Minimum curing requirements include light foot traffic after 24-48 hours, vehicle traffic after 7 days (28 days for heavy vehicles), and full strength at 28 days.

Decorative Concrete Options

Stamped Concrete

Stamped concrete replicates natural stone, slate, brick, wood, or custom patterns at 50-70% the cost of actual materials. Process includes pouring standard concrete, applying color hardener or release agent, pressing textured mats into surface before setting, and sealing after curing.

Costs range from $12-$25 per square foot installed. Requires experienced contractors for quality results. Popular patterns include random stone, slate, ashlar, brick, and wood plank.

Stained Concrete

Concrete staining adds permanent color to new or existing concrete.

Acid Stains: Chemically react with concrete creating variegated, translucent colors in earth tones (browns, tans, greens). Permanent and UV-stable but limited color palette.

Water-Based Stains: Penetrating stains offering wider color range including bright colors. Less reactive, more consistent color, easier application.

Application includes surface preparation (clean, etch if needed), stain application in thin coats, neutralization (acid stains), and sealing for protection. Costs range from $2-$6 per square foot for basic staining.

Polished Concrete

Polished concrete involves grinding surface with progressively finer diamond abrasives, creating smooth, glossy finish. Benefits include extreme durability, easy maintenance, light-reflective surface, and industrial-modern aesthetic.

Process includes initial grinding to expose aggregate or cement paste, filling pores with densifier, progressive polishing through multiple grits, and optional stain or dye application. Costs range from $3-$12 per square foot depending on level of polish.

Overlays and Resurfacing

Concrete overlays apply thin layer of new concrete or polymer-modified material over existing concrete. Options include self-leveling overlays for interior floors, stampable overlays for decorative exteriors, spray-down textures, and microtoppings (ultra-thin applications).

Overlays repair damaged concrete, update appearance, and add decorative finishes at lower cost than removal and replacement. Costs range from $3-$10 per square foot.

Concrete Maintenance

Regular Maintenance

Monthly:

Sweep or blow off debris
Remove stains promptly
Check for early signs of cracking

Seasonally:

Power wash surface
Inspect and clean control joints
Check for settling or movement
Clean efflorescence (white mineral deposits)

Annually:

Reseal decorative or stained concrete
Repair minor cracks and spalls
Clean and reseal joints
Inspect for larger structural issues

Sealing Concrete

Concrete sealers protect against moisture penetration, staining, scaling, and abrasion. Types include:

Penetrating Sealers: Absorb into concrete pores, providing internal protection without changing appearance. Last 5-10 years. Best for exterior concrete.

Film-Forming Sealers: Create protective layer on surface with glossy, wet look. Enhance color and provide stain resistance. Last 1-5 years. Better for decorative concrete and patios.

Acrylic Sealers: Water or solvent-based, available in matte to high-gloss. Economical, easy application, but require frequent reapplication (1-3 years).

Epoxy and Urethane Sealers: Maximum protection and durability for garage and basement floors. Resist chemicals, abrasion, and staining. More expensive and complex application.

Application frequency depends on type and exposure, typically every 1-5 years. Always clean thoroughly before sealing and follow manufacturer instructions.

Cleaning and Stain Removal

General Cleaning: Use pH-neutral cleaner and scrub brush, power wash for heavy soiling (1,500-2,000 PSI maximum), and rinse thoroughly.

Oil and Grease: Apply absorbent (cat litter, sawdust), allow to sit 24 hours, sweep up and apply degreaser, scrub and rinse, or use commercial concrete degreaser and pressure washer.

Rust Stains: Use commercial rust remover or oxalic acid solution carefully (test small area first).

Tire Marks: Power wash or use commercial tire mark remover.

Efflorescence: Scrub with stiff brush and water, use commercial efflorescence remover for stubborn cases, and address moisture source to prevent recurrence.

Common Concrete Problems and Solutions

Cracking

All concrete cracks to some degree. Common crack types include:

Plastic Shrinkage Cracks: Form while concrete is still setting due to rapid moisture loss. Prevention through proper curing, timing of finishing, and moisture retention.

Settlement Cracks: Occur when base settles unevenly. Prevention through proper compaction and base preparation. Repair by injection or replacement if severe.

Expansion/Contraction Cracks: Temperature cycling causes movement. Prevention through proper joint spacing. Repair with flexible sealant.

Structural Cracks: Indicate foundation or loading issues. Requires professional assessment and potential structural repair.

Minor cracks (under 1/4 inch) can be filled with concrete caulk or crack filler. Larger cracks need professional evaluation and repair with epoxy injection or routing and sealing.

Spalling and Scaling

Surface deterioration where concrete flakes or peels, typically caused by freeze-thaw cycles, deicing salt damage, or poor finishing. Prevention includes air-entrained concrete in cold climates, proper finishing technique, and avoiding deicing salts.

Repair involves removing loose material, applying bonding agent, and patching with concrete repair material. Extensive spalling requires resurfacing or replacement.

Settling and Sinking

Concrete slabs may settle due to poor base compaction, soil erosion, or washout. Solutions include:

Mudjacking: Pump grout mixture beneath slab to raise and level. Costs $3-$6 per square foot. Effective but temporary if underlying cause not addressed.

Polyurethane Foam Injection: Inject expanding foam beneath slab. More expensive ($5-$25 per square foot) but lighter, faster, and longer-lasting than mudjacking.

Replacement: Necessary if settling is severe or underlying issues cannot be corrected.

Discoloration

Color variations occur from inconsistent mix, finishing technique, or curing conditions. Often cosmetic but can be unsightly. Solutions include acid staining to blend colors, applying concrete dye, or applying decorative overlay.

Efflorescence (white deposits) results from mineral salts migrating to surface. Clean with stiff brush and water or commercial efflorescence remover.

Seasonal Considerations

Cold Weather Concreting

Cold weather (below 40°F) slows concrete curing and can cause damage if concrete freezes before gaining sufficient strength.

Cold weather practices include:

Use accelerated mix designs
Heat mixing water and/or aggregate
Insulate or heat forms before pouring
Cover and insulate concrete after placement
Use heated enclosures for critical work
Allow longer curing time
Avoid frozen ground (thaw first or excavate deeper)

Cold weather concrete costs 10-20% more but allows year-round construction.

Hot Weather Concreting

Hot weather (above 90°F) accelerates setting, increasing difficulty of placement and finishing while potentially reducing strength.

Hot weather practices include:

Schedule pours for early morning or evening
Use retarding admixtures
Keep materials cool (shade aggregate, use cold water)
Work quickly and efficiently
Fog spray to prevent rapid moisture loss
Start curing immediately
Use sunshades or windbreaks

Best Time for Concrete Work

Spring and fall offer ideal conditions with moderate temperatures (50-80°F), lower humidity, and longer daylight. Most concrete contractors are busiest in summer, so spring and fall may offer better availability and pricing.

Winter work is possible but more expensive. Summer work requires extra precautions but is generally feasible. Avoid pouring during extreme temperatures (below 20°F or above 100°F) when possible.

DIY vs. Professional Concrete

When DIY Makes Sense

Small projects may be DIY-feasible for physically capable homeowners with proper tools and helpers. Suitable DIY projects include small walkways (under 50 square feet), simple shed pads, stepping stones, and decorative landscape elements.

DIY requires significant physical labor, proper tools (wheelbarrow, float, trowel, edger), multiple helpers, and understanding of concrete behavior. Mistakes are difficult to correct and may require complete removal.

When to Hire Professionals

Professional concrete contractors are essential for:

Foundations (structural and warranty considerations)
Driveways (size, complexity, experience needed)
Large patios (require efficient pour and finishing)
Decorative concrete (stamping, staining require expertise)
Retaining walls (engineering and safety critical)
Any project requiring permits or structural engineering
Projects in challenging soil or drainage conditions

Professional costs are justified by expertise, proper equipment, efficient execution, warranty coverage, and peace of mind.

Permits and Regulations

When Permits Are Required

Building permits are typically required for:

Foundation work
Driveways (especially affecting right-of-way or drainage)
Retaining walls over specific height (typically 4 feet)
Structural concrete work
Work affecting drainage patterns

Requirements vary by jurisdiction. Check with local building department before starting projects.

Code Compliance

Concrete work must comply with building codes covering minimum thickness, reinforcement requirements, foundation depth, drainage specifications, and accessibility requirements.

Professional contractors understand local codes and ensure compliance. DIY projects should research code requirements before beginning.

Conclusion

Concrete provides versatile, durable, and cost-effective solutions for foundations, flatwork, and decorative applications. Understanding concrete types, installation processes, maintenance requirements, and when to hire professionals ensures successful projects that last decades. Whether installing new concrete or maintaining existing surfaces, proper materials, techniques, and care protect your investment while enhancing property value and functionality. Quality concrete work begins with choosing experienced contractors, using appropriate materials, following proven installation practices, and maintaining surfaces properly throughout their lifespan.