Get matched with top concrete driveway pros in Bridgeport, NE

When hiring a concrete contractor, you should seek someone with proven experience, proper licensing, and insurance. You should also check reviews online, talk to references, and view past project photos. Remember that reliable contractors communicate openly and have an expert understanding of local building codes. You’ll also want to ensure that the contractor specializes in the specific type of concrete work you want, whether a driveway or tinted concrete flooring.

Yes, concrete is significantly stronger than masonry, especially if the concrete pour includes reinforcements, like steel rebar. Concrete is a uniform material that can withstand compression, sheer force, and tensile force as long as it’s reinforced. Masonry involves the use of mortar or grout to connect individual building materials, like brick, stone, or tile. Mortar and grout are also reasonably strong and resist compression well, but they don’t come close to the strength of poured concrete.

Most standard concrete patios are around 4 inches deep. However, concrete patios that need to support very heavy items, like a hot tub or outdoor kitchen, should be around 6 inches thick to support the full weight of these items. You'll also want to make sure you install rebar for patios that need to support a lot of weight like this.

Lally columns do require some kind of footing to ensure they have a strong enough base to provide the support they need to deliver, and, at the very least, they need to attach to the floor below. Some contractors will just use the existing foundation as a footing for temporary Lally columns, while some circumstances demand that the expert install a new footing. You might need a local structural engineer to weigh in on which is best for your project.