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.
Signs include age-related crumbling, cracking or curling, potholes and dips, standing water or a sunken base, and deep cracks that let water into the surface.
Signs include chipping and hairline cracks that widen over time, a driveway that sinks, settles or heaves, uneven or slippery surfaces, and damage from roots or…
Replace a concrete pool deck when cracking is extensive or spreading, the concrete breaks apart or pops when stepped on, or poor drainage lets water erode…
Choose a product that fits the crack (patching compound for larger cracks, liquid filler or caulk for cracks under a quarter-inch), chisel out loose concrete while…
Watch for visible physical damage such as cracks, fissures and divots, dulling and discoloration of the surface, and sunken areas where the soil underneath has started…
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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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