Getting Started – Design Options & Quotes
The first thing most clients want to know before we get started is how much their project is going to cost. We can provide general quotes based on the square footage of your project, the pattern you have in mind, knowing what the site conditions, soil and access look like and if there are any extras you may interest in, like accents, steps or terraces. You can get a general quote like this by filling out our online Get A Quote Form. Otherwise, the tried and true way to get the most accurate quote from us, is for us to visit the site, show you our portfolio and discuss all the details of the project. At this point, we’ll draw up a proposal and upon request we can provide drawings of your project to help visualize the final design.
Getting it done – Excavation, Forming, Site Prep
Once all finish details have been determined and costs have been agreed to in the form of a contract, we will proceed with the project. If the job site requires excavation, we will dig the area using our bobcat. At this time, materials like concrete, asphalt, grass or fill will all be removed and disposed of according to agreements made with client. All areas will be filled, generally with a solid bed of ¾” crushed stone. These areas will be graded and compacted to stable subgrade, set to elevation and formed to spec. Pitches and slopes will be determined based on site conditions and fixed points which will determine final grade and elevations.
The Pour
Once all areas have been formed, graded and set to elevation, it’s time to pour. We generally use a 4000 psi mix with fiber and wire reinforcements. Concrete is always poured stiff and most likely at our minimum depth of 5”. Once the concrete has been laid, a colored hardener will be worked into the surface. The contrasting release agent will be broadcast onto the surface and then the area will be stamped.
Wrap-up
The day after the pour, we will return to pressure wash and sawcut the concrete. Expansion joints will be made in high stress point areas to minimize the potential for cracking. Pressure washing the concrete removes a portion of the release agent color, which is how we achieve the two-tone color effect. Once the concrete has fully dried (this may be same day or following day), we will seal it using an exterior acrylic sealer. If slip is a concern for you, especially if the concrete is around a pool or hot tub, we can use a silica non-skid additive in the sealer. This option should be discussed and agreed to before we seal the job. Just a few hours after your new stamped concrete has been sealed, you’ll be ready to enjoy the space for years to come. |
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