Frequently Asked Questions
Cement and concrete are often confused, but they’re not the same. Cement is a powdery substance made from limestone and other materials, and it acts as a binder. When mixed with water, sand, and gravel or crushed stone, it forms concrete—a durable building material used for sidewalks, foundations, walls, and more. In short, cement is one ingredient in concrete.
Ready-mixed concrete is concrete that is manufactured in a batching plant and delivered to a construction site in a freshly mixed, unhardened state—usually in a rotating drum truck. It’s made to precise specifications and mixed under controlled conditions, ensuring consistent quality and performance. This type of concrete is ideal for projects that require large volumes, consistent mix quality, or fast application, such as foundations, driveways, sidewalks, and commercial construction.
Concrete can crack for several reasons, most of which are related to changes in volume and stress over time. The most common cause is shrinkage: as concrete dries and cures, it loses moisture and naturally contracts, which can lead to small cracks. Cracking can also result from temperature changes, heavy loads, improper installation, lack of control joints, or poor subgrade preparation. While some cracking is normal and cosmetic, proper planning and installation can minimize it and help maintain the integrity of the structure.
Air-entrained concrete is a type of concrete that contains intentionally added tiny air bubbles, created by using special air-entraining agents during mixing. These microscopic air pockets improve the concrete’s durability, especially in cold climates, by allowing space for water to expand when it freezes—helping prevent cracking and surface scaling. Air-entrained concrete also improves workability, resistance to deicing chemicals, and longevity in freeze-thaw environments, making it a popular choice for sidewalks, driveways, bridges, and other outdoor structures.
Curing concrete means keeping it moist and at a stable temperature after it’s poured. Proper curing helps the concrete gain strength gradually, reduces cracking, and improves durability. Moisture is especially important during the first 7 days, as concrete continues to harden and strengthen over time.
A cubic yard is a volume measurement equal to 27 cubic feet (3 ft × 3 ft × 3 ft). It typically weighs around 4,000 pounds and can cover about 81 square feet at 4 inches thick. Knowing how many cubic yards you need helps prevent over- or under-ordering.
PSI stands for “pounds per square inch” and refers to concrete’s compressive strength. Common residential concrete mixes range from 3,000 to 4,000 PSI. In colder climates or heavy-use areas like driveways, higher PSI mixes (4,000–5,000) are often recommended for added strength and durability.
Slump measures concrete’s consistency or workability—how easily it flows. A low slump is stiffer and ideal for footings or pavements; a higher slump is easier to place but can reduce strength if not properly managed. Adding water may change the slump, but admixtures are a better option to avoid weakening the mix.
You can typically walk on a new driveway after 24–48 hours. Light vehicle traffic (cars, pickups) is usually safe after 7 days. Heavier vehicles or trailers should wait at least 28 days to allow full curing and strength gain, especially in cooler temperatures.
Accurate measurements of your project’s length, width, and depth are key. Use a concrete calculator or consult a professional to convert dimensions to cubic yards. It’s a good idea to add 5–10% extra to account for spills, uneven subgrade, or variations in depth.
Yes, strength is controlled by adjusting the mix ratio of cement, water, and aggregates, as well as using admixtures. Curing time and temperature also play a big role—longer, moist curing periods usually result in stronger concrete.
For oil, rust, or other common stains, start with a stiff brush and a degreaser or concrete cleaner. Tough stains may require pressure washing, a poultice, or specialty products. Sealing your concrete can also help prevent stains from setting in.
Yes, concrete can harden underwater thanks to a chemical reaction called hydration. However, special techniques and mix designs are used for underwater applications to ensure proper placement and strength.
Concrete pavement typically lasts 30–40 years or more with minimal maintenance, while asphalt may require resurfacing every 10–15 years. Though concrete has a higher upfront cost, it often proves more cost-effective over time due to lower maintenance and greater durability.