Practical articles from San Diego Concrete Contractors on driveways, patios, sidewalks and steps, stamped and decorative concrete, repairs and care — plus planning tips for homeowners and businesses in San Diego County.
Concrete can usually take light foot traffic after about 24 hours, heavier loads after 48 hours and vehicles after 3 to 7 days; it is considered fully cured after about 28 days.
Small cracks under about 1/4 inch can be cleaned, filled with concrete caulk or liquid filler and resurfaced, while larger cracks are filled and sealed with…
Polyurethane foam can raise sinking driveways, sidewalks, porches and basement floors through fewer, smaller holes, fill voids beneath the slab, and lift concrete in confined spaces…
Repair usually makes sense for a newer driveway in otherwise good condition with minor cracks or chips; large cracks, missing chunks, an older driveway or poor…
Leveling a concrete slab helps prevent cracking, improves drainage so water does not pool on the surface, and removes uneven spots that create trip hazards.
Repair is often the better choice for minor problems because it costs much less than replacement; full replacement makes sense when damage is severe, and either…
It may be if it was repaired with the wrong products. The post warns against patching exterior concrete with caulk, relying on self-leveling compounds for holes,…
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Quick answers
Common concrete questions, answered.
Short answers from our articles. Open an article for the full explanation.
Wear proper protective equipment, work with good ventilation and dust control, handle cement and chemicals carefully, use safe lifting techniques and mechanical aids, and guard against slips on wet concrete.
Assess the damage, decide on DIY or professional work and check local rules, resurface by cleaning, patching and applying resurfacer, maintain it with regular checks and crack filling, and replace it when damage is extensive or structural.
Design ideas include stamped patterns that mimic brick, stone or wood, integral coloring, acid or water-based stains, and textured finishes such as exposed aggregate or broom finishing.
Assess the floor for cracks and moisture, choose a suitable overlay, pick trending looks, patterns or colors, clean and prime the surface before coating, and then seal and clean it regularly.
Gather the right supplies, rinse and scrub with a mild detergent, treat specific stains with vinegar, baking soda or targeted cleaners, pressure wash (hot water helps with grease), and seal the surface.
Concrete is durable and long-lasting, helps with energy efficiency through its thermal mass, offers design versatility, needs little maintenance, and can increase a home’s property value.
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