Get matched with top concrete finishing pros in Chesaning, MI

It’s possible to pour your own concrete slab and stamp it yourself, but we don’t recommend it. Pouring concrete is a relatively simple operation, but for larger projects, you’ll have to pay for concrete delivery anyway. From there, you’ll need to make sure you get the proper thickness to avoid cracking and sinking, and then you’ll need to work quickly to get the pattern stamped on the surface at the right time—too early, and the pattern may settle back down, but too late, and it won’t set at all. Leave the work to a concrete professional for the best results.

The easiest way to handle extra-wet cement is to pour it, let it harden, and then recycle it using one of the methods above. You can also crush it down and sell it for base materials, although this can be pretty time-consuming. Your best bet is to start with less concrete than you need and make more as you go to avoid this problem.

There are a few different types of finishes to choose from for the final step of the project. 

Water-based polyurethane sealants emit fewer odors and fumes but dry quickly, which can pose a challenge when trying to get a smooth coat. Oil-based polyurethane sealants let out more odors and fumes into the air (it’s especially important to wear a respirator if you choose this type), but they take longer to dry, which can be more forgiving during the finishing step. 

Some may prefer wood oil to polyurethane because rather than creating a layer, it becomes part of the wood. Wood oil takes longer to dry, and is less resistant to wear and tear; however, it creates a natural-looking result by enhancing the grain of the wood. 

You may want to hire a concrete floor contractor to check out your home’s concrete surfaces or inspect your home’s foundation for minor damages they can fix while on site. They may be able to fix cracks in your driveway or garage floor the same day they fix your concrete steps, as well. General concrete repair experts often won’t be able to handle larger jobs, like leveling a sunken foundation , so you’ll need to hire a structural engineer for bigger projects.