What is the most common cause of concrete cracks?

• <div><p>The most common cause of concrete cracks is shrinkage when the concrete hardens and cures. The stress from the shrinkage exceeds the concrete’s strength. Concrete cracking can also occur when it experiences extremely cold or hot temperatures, such as a particularly harsh winter or a firepit built into a concrete patio.</p></div>

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Q: Are concrete countertops hard to maintain?

• <div><p>Yes, concrete countertops are harder to maintain than other materials. You don&rsquo;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.</p></div>

Q: Do you need to sand concrete before painting?

• <div><p>You should sand concrete before painting, as it helps remove any irregularities and pieces that stick out from the surface. This not only helps the paint look better but it prevents any unwanted water absorption.</p></div>

Q: How do you know if concrete is fully cured?

• <div><p>You will know concrete is fully cured after 28 days when the new concrete reaches its maximum strength. Follow the cure time information on the manufacturer&rsquo;s label or ask your concrete pro about when your concrete is fully cured. You can drive your concrete once it&rsquo;s partially cured, usually around seven days after it&rsquo;s poured. After one week, the concrete is strong enough to hold up to regular-size vehicles.</p></div>

Q: Do you need a footing under a Lally column?

• <div><p>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 <a href="https://www.angi.com/nearme/structural-engineers/">local structural engineer</a> to weigh in on which is best for your project.</p></div>

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Last update on November 22, 2025

Reviewed in October 2021
Lewis Construction did a great job on installing a new concrete sidewalk. Dan was very professional and finished the job in a timely manner. I would definitely recommend them and do business again with them.
Lewis Construction and Remodeling
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Reviewed in April 2016
very seamless. Ease of communication and implementation of changes as we went we very smooth.
LAKE CONSTRUCTION
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Reviewed in August 2013
Matt, was on time for our initial appointment and the office followed up in a timely fashion with a clearly written detailed estimate. we hired them to do the work. They estimated that they would begin the work about mid July. With the wet spring and their busy schedule, the start of the...
Architectural Concrete Plus
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Reviewed in June 2014
Pat and his crew were kind, friendly, and professional. First, Pat always called us back and kept us informed of the project status. He was there to answer any questions no matter how insignificant they were or how busy Pat may have been. Pat is a good salesman but his recommendations are...
Caldwells Custom Concrete Inc
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Reviewed in May 2016
DO NOT WASTE YOUR HARD EARNED MONEY ON THIS COMPANY! I spent more than $15,000.00 on a pool deck. Started several weeks later than promised. Never called to say when they were running last. When done, Steve Hufcut said he’d return at the end of the season to put a final seal on it. Did not...
Hufcut Concrete Corp
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