Get matched with top decorative concrete pros in Ridgecrest, LA

Concrete dries faster in the heat than in the cold, but when concrete cures too fast, it can cause weak concrete. It’s best to pour concrete when temperatures are between 50 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit, watering it five to 10 times per day for seven days (unless you pour concrete in the winter). Slower cure times, such as when pouring concrete in cold weather, can cause strong concrete, but you need to monitor the temperature drop and moisture levels. Avoid pouring concrete when temperatures are below 40 degrees Fahrenheit.

Yes, concrete countertops are harder to maintain than other materials. You don’t have to stress about them every single day, but they need to be resealed at least once a year, if not multiple times a year. Concrete also stains easily, so you must clean spills immediately. Avoid harsh, acidic cleaning products, as they can damage the sealant. Finally, concrete is prone to cracking over time, requiring repairs.

Yes, you can pour new concrete over old concrete, but you need to apply a concrete bonding agent to the existing concrete to ensure the new concrete sticks. Keep in mind that even with a bonding agent, large cracks and other flaws will still come through. If the concrete has heaved, settled, or cracked, pouring new concrete on top won’t address any root structural problems. Removing the existing concrete and rebuilding will be your best solution in that case.

While stamped concrete can last up to 50 years on average, a driveway will likely need repairs or resurfacing within 25 years. Comparatively, the life span of a stamped concrete driveway is much longer than those built with pavers or asphalt, which will often crack or break down under the weight of your vehicle much sooner.