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Five Important Questions to Ask
Your Concrete Contractor
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Dear Jim,
You've finally set aside enough money in your budget to splurge on a new decorative concrete patio, driveway or sidewalk. Whatever type of outdoor concrete pavement you're installing, you'll want to invest in something that not only looks good but will last for many years without requiring extensive maintenance or repair. And the best way to do that is to make sure the job is done right. Below are five important questions to ask your contractor before he starts placing your concrete. Often the success of a concrete installation boils down to these basics. If you're not satisfied with the answers your contractor gives you, be sure to discuss your concerns before the work begins.
Jim Peterson,
The Concrete Network
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1. What is the water-cement ratio?
A low ratio of water to cement in concrete will improve many of concrete's desired properties, including strength and durability. Make sure your contractor plans to keep the ratio at 0.50 or lower. See Use a Low Water-Cement Ratio.
2. What admixtures are you using?
Admixtures are additions to a concrete mix that can help control the set time or improve its performance and workability. In climates with freeze-thaw cycles, for example, an air-entraining admixture is a beneficial addition because it will help to protect your concrete from damage during freezing conditions. Learn more about concrete admixtures and their many performance benefits.
3. How thick will the concrete slab be? Thickness is a big factor in determining a concrete slab's structural capacity, which is especially important for high-traffic surfaces such as driveways. Your contractor should place the concrete at a minimum thickness of 4 inches, and 5 inches is even better because it will boost your driveway's load-carrying capacity nearly 50%. See Placing Concrete at the Proper Thickness.
4. How far apart are you spacing the joints?
Those joint lines you see in concrete slabs aren't for decorative purposes. They help to control cracking by allowing for movement caused by temperature changes and drying shrinkage. How far apart those joints are spaced, as well as how deep they are cut and their location, will determine how effective they are. In a driveway slab, for example, the joints should be at a maximum spacing of 10 feet and a depth equaling one-fourth the slab thickness. See Joints in Concrete Slabs.
5. Do you plan to seal the concrete?
Applying sealer to a decorative concrete driveway or other slab isn't a necessity, but it will make the concrete easier to maintain and improve the appearance by enhancing the color and gloss. There are many types of sealers for concrete, so do your homework first and ask your contractor what type of product he plans to use. Learn more: Sealers for Concrete Driveways.
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