FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Why is concrete better than other materials?

A: There are numerous reasons why concrete is an ideal building material for both residential and commercial properties. Concrete is very durable, and it can last for a lifetime when properly maintained. Also, concrete is very attractive, and it comes in a plethora of shapes, textures, patterns, and colors like decorative concrete.

 

It is highly versatile, and it can be brushed or finished smooth to give skid resistance surfaces. When it comes to cost, it is the most affordable solution, allowing you to add the curb appeal of your property without straining your finances.

Q: Is concrete the same as cement

A: Although these two words are used interchangeably, they are not the same. Cement is a powdery substance that is made by burning lime and clay. It is then mixed with other ingredients water, sand, stone, and gravel in order to make concrete. Cement is, therefore, a basic ingredient for making concrete, and it cannot be used to make driveways and roads on its own.

 

Q: How long will it take to install concrete driveways?

A: Usually, it takes 2 to 3 days to complete installing a new driveway. Again, this will depend on the inspection required and the size of the project.

 

Q: How long must I wait for my concrete driveway to cure before I drive on it?

A: According to the American Concrete Pavement Association and the American Concrete Institute, a concrete driveway should be left to cure for a minimum of 7 days before using it. On the other hand, other concrete industrial technical societies advocate curing for 3 to 7 days after the concrete placement. Of course, this will depend on factors such as the concrete mix design.

 

Q: What is a concrete sealer and after how long must it be applied?

A: A concrete sealer is used to prevent moisture from getting into the concrete matrix. As a result, this limits surface deterioration that is caused by cycles of thawing and freezing. A high-quality sealer also protects the concrete from exposure to grease, chemical, and oil stains. Sealers for exterior concrete are available in tow types; penetrants and film-formers with penetrating sealers, offering the utmost protection from moisture absorption.

 

Before applying the concrete sealer, it is recommended to allow the concrete to air dry fast for 30 days. When it comes to application rates and how often you should apply it, be sure to consult with the manufacturer’s directions.

 

Q: How do I remove stains from concrete?

A: There are two ways of removing stains from concrete; the dry or mechanical methods and the wet methods. The dry methods include grinding, sandblasting, planing, and scouring scabbing as well as flame cleaning and short-blasting.

 

For the wet methods, you can use water or specific chemicals depending on the nature of the stain. The chemicals work by bleaching the staining substance or dissolving it so that it is blotted from the surface.

 

Q: What do I need to do to get an estimate?

A: Before we provide you with a free estimate, we will inquire about a lot of information about your property including blueprints and plans. Once we have full information, we use the latest computer programs to come up with accurate and precise estimates that will meet your budgetary needs and timelines.

 

Q: Does CCA Concrete Construction have the proper insurance and certifications?

A: Proper insurance is vital and our company knows this too well. Our company has a certificate of insurance providing coverage for worker’s compensation insurance and property damage. We ensure that each contractor that comes to your project site carries proof of their insurance so that you won’t be held liable should anything happen on the job.

 

Also, all our contractors have the right education and training that enables them to adhere to the structural integrity and ethics of the job. Besides that, we offer ongoing training to ensure that our contractors are familiar with the latest techniques in the industry.

 

Q: Will concrete crack?

A: Basically, cracks appear when the concrete is exposed to freeze/thaw climates. However, cracks are unlikely to appear if your concrete was properly jointed. Joints are used to control cracking as they allow the concrete to contract and expand. Another way is to ask your contractor to add concrete that contains a mixture of fiber in order to control cracking.

 

Q: What is decorative concrete?

A: Decorative concrete is when we stamp, dye, and stain your concrete to give it a more expensive appearance. Decorative finishes are very easy to maintain, and it can add long-lasting value to your property, especially if you are planning to sell it in the near future.

 

Q: Do you offer concrete removal services?

A: Yes, at CCA, we have all the tools and equipment needed for excavating old concrete. We will also remove debris leaving a clear land for new construction.

 

Q: How much does a concrete application cost?

A: Basically, the cost of installing concrete will depend on the type of mix design used. It is also dependant on the square footage of the property, the number of concrete mixer trucks needed, waiting times, sales tax, and the preparation involved. The cost also varies with the region of the job site.