A: Concrete requires control joints to allow for shrinkage when the concrete is curing. The control joints we install in all our concrete work are completed in specific locations and design to greatly reduce uncontrolled cracking. All of our concrete projects have a very low chance of uncontrolled cracking. Uncontrolled (cracking) joint is when the contractor has not installed the control joints in the correct location and before 30 hours of placement. If the concrete hasn't been cut with expert precision , than yes the concrete will crack randomly and uncontrolled. Controlled (cracks) joints basically means that the contractor controls the time and location of where the concrete cracks. The control joints are designed prior to concrete placement or during. Successful controlled cracks are done with expert precision, within 30 hours of placement and other skilled tricks that aren't mentioned here. The controlled joint will be a straight line cut into the surface of the concrete approximately 1/3 of the thickness of the concrete. This is more structurally sound and visually appealing.
Q: Is a concrete driveway more expensive than asphalt?
A: Yes a concrete driveway is more expensive than asphalt. A concrete driveway is more expensive than asphalt driveway because the materials are more expensive and is design to be very strong. Concrete is engineered to be the worlds most durable, long lasting material in the world. Another reason why a concrete driveway is more expensive than asphalt is because, concrete can be customized, shaped, coloured, and created in a way that is more attractive than asphalt. When a driveway looks better, it sells better and this helps greatly with a homes resale value.
Q: Can concrete have potholes develop in time like asphalt or concrete pavers?
A: No, concrete doesn't develop pot holes like asphalt or concrete pavers. Concrete doesn't develop potholes because concrete is more structurally sound. I compare concrete to rock, if you park your truck on a large flat rock will in the rock develop a pothole? no. Concrete is a like a giant slab of rock and is made using rocks.
Q: Why does asphalt and concrete pavers (interlock) develop potholes or cracks?
A: Asphalt develops potholes because the material has an elastic and soft structure. when vehicles are parked in one area the weight of the vehicle pushes into the soft elastic structure, creating a pothole. Asphalt develops cracks because no control joints have been made so any movement in the earth with crack the asphalt.
Concrete pavers (interlock) develop potholes because the interlock do not connect as one solid slab. When there is small concrete pavers (interlock) and they aren't poured together, hundred of voids are created between the concrete pavers ( interlock). The voids between each paver allows water to enter and start to erode the gravel under the pavers. Once one small hole has developed water will continue to compromise the base under the concrete pavers. Water going into the base under the pavers creates potholes and an area for weeds to flourish.
Q: Do you offer a warranty?
A: Yes all of our work has a limited warranty
Q: Is it difficult to shovel or snow blow exposed aggregate concrete?
A: Exposed aggregate is very easy to shovel and snow blow.
Q: How often does the concrete require sealing?
A: Depending on which option, some of our low maintenance options don't require any sealing. Concrete requires sealing is stamped concrete, exposed aggregate and regular concrete is optional for sealing.
Q: When can I walk on the concrete?
A: You can walk on the concrete the following day.
