Serving Kitchener/Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph and Surrounding Areas
service@jlconcretedesigns.ca
519.498.1006
JL Concrete Designs

Frequently Asked Questions

JL Concrete DesignsFrequently Asked Questions
Q
What is Concrete?
In its simplest form, concrete is a mixture of paste (cement powder & water) and aggregates (sand & stone). The paste coats the surface of the fine sand, and the coarse aggregates and binds them together into a rock-like mass known as concrete. In addition to the paste and aggregates, concrete may also contain highly specialized chemicals that enhance its characteristics. These additives improve both the workability and durability of concrete.
Q
Keys to a successful project
The keys to achieving a strong, durable, long lasting concrete project are as follows. Ensure proper sub-grade preparation, utilize high quality raw concrete ingredients. Order the proper concrete for the project and ensure skillful placement, finishing, and curing of the concrete.
Q
Sub-grade Preparation
Topsoil and organic matter should be removed. A granular base (stone or sand) may be necessary. Fill material must be compacted uniformly. Exterior projects such as driveways, patios, and walk-paths should be sloped at least 1/8” / foot to allow for proper water run-off.
Q
Finishing of the Concrete
Concrete should be placed then leveled to ensure the surface has the right slope for water run-off and that the concrete is at its proper elevation in relation to its form-work. For patios, walk-paths, and driveways a concrete thickness of 4” – 5” is satisfactory. Control joints or saw cuts are put in place to control where the concrete will crack. Shrinkage is an unavoidable fact of concrete construction. Knowing what steps to take can avoid random cracks and make or break a great project.

Maintaining your investment

Decorative concrete must withstand some pretty harsh conditions in our Canadian climate. We provide proper maintenance, using top quality protective products that will greatly extend the life of your decorative concrete surface. Understanding our climate will help you understand why routine maintenance is critical:

Rain and Wind 

When it rains water is absorbed into the concrete, and then the water expands as it freezes. Concrete sealers protect your project from snow, wind, rainfall and high temperature.

 

Snow and Ice 

Salt and chemicals used to melt the ice in northern climates can allow moisture and chemicals to soak into the surface of the concrete. When the temperature drops, the water freezes and expands, which can crack the concrete or damage the surface finish.

Sun

The sun’s UV rays can degrade sealers, fade colours and bake stains into the concrete. A proper sealant protects your concrete and can save you big money in replacement and repair in the future.

 


Surface Cleaning


Cleaning is the cornerstone of maintenance. It is a critical and necessary step, because concrete is so porous. A simple pressure wash with water and low pressure, from 1000 to 1800 psi is acceptable in most decorative applications as this will dislodge the debris from the porous concrete, without chipping the surface. For driveways, patios and sidewalks, a good pressure wash once or twice a year will do the job. The use of a scrub brush also works well to clean joints and other hard-to-reach areas. Light detergents at low concentration can also be used, not acid mixtures, which can attack the concrete.

Sealing Concrete Surfaces


Once the surface is cleaned and dry, it must be protected from the elements and from wear and tear with a high quality sealer that repels water, limits damage from UV sunlight and resists abrasion. Resealing can make the color look fresh again, but it’s important that the surface be maintained properly from the start. The use of a top quality sealer makes cleanup easier, improves the looks of the project and extends the life of the decorative application.

Sealing should be done once every two years, or more often, depending on the local environmental conditions and wear and tear of the decorative concrete surface.


Ask Us A Question

 

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