A clear starting point
Decide what the space needs to do. Gather rough measurements, a few photos, and the main problems you want to solve. Note any plans for a cover, hot tub, heavy vehicle, or other future addition.
FROM FIRST IDEA TO FINISHED SURFACEA good project
A good project
has a clear process.
Understand the main stages of a residential concrete project before you choose an installer or compare proposals.
A proper site assessment
Have the contractor review access, existing concrete, grade, drainage, utilities, and the ground below. A useful visit should inform the scope rather than simply confirm square footage.
A written proposal
Ask for the preparation, removal, base, concrete specification, finish, joints, cleanup, and any permit responsibilities in writing. Compare exclusions and the plan for unexpected ground conditions.
Preparation, placement & care
A typical project moves through removal or excavation, base preparation, forms, placement, finishing, joint work, and curing. Ask when the surface can be used and what care it will need.
THE WORK YOU DON’T SEEStart underneath.
Start underneath.
Finish thoughtfully.
The slab, prepared base, and underlying ground work together. Ask the contractor to explain the proposed design for your property and loads.
Joints help manage where normal shrinkage cracking occurs. Good planning reduces avoidable problems; no honest proposal should promise concrete that can never crack.
Conceptual illustration. Not a construction drawing.
BEFORE WORK STARTS
Make the practical arrangements.
Confirm parking, access to the home, protection of adjacent surfaces, and the expected work sequence. Ask how weather could affect the schedule and who makes the call if conditions change.
Before the contractor leaves, request written curing and maintenance instructions. Walking access, vehicle access, and heavy loads may have different timelines. Follow the instructions for the specific installation.
Further reading: NRMCA Concrete in Practice resources cover topics including joints and curing.
BEFORE YOU GET STARTED
A few good questions.
Clear answers make for better decisions.
How long does a project take?+
The scope, access, weather, inspections, and curing all influence the schedule. Ask for a work sequence and separate dates for construction and return to use.
What happens if the ground underneath is worse than expected?+
Discuss how additional excavation or base work will be priced and approved before work begins. A written change process helps avoid surprises.
Will the new concrete crack?+
Concrete can develop cracks as it shrinks or moves. Preparation, design, joints, placement, and curing all matter, but a crack-free guarantee is not a realistic planning assumption.
LET’S PUT YOUR IDEAS ON PAPER
Plan your projectYour next project starts with a clearer plan.
Tell us a little about the space, the project, and what you have in mind.