- Concrete questions answered
Frequently asked questions
Straight answers about estimates, pricing, driveways, stamped concrete, slabs, foundations, walkways and caring for your concrete. Do not see your question? Call us or send the form.
Tell us about your project and we will call you to set up a site visit.
Prefer to talk? Call (425) 20470-5667
- Topic 01
Estimates and getting started
How estimates work, where we work and what jobs we take on.
Are your estimates really free?
Yes. We visit your property, measure, talk through your options and give you a written, itemized quote at no cost. There is no obligation to book.
What areas do you serve?
We are based in Everett and serve nearby communities including Mukilteo, Mill Creek, Lynnwood, Marysville, Lake Stevens, Snohomish, Edmonds, Bothell, Mountlake Terrace, Monroe and Arlington. Call us to confirm your address.
Do you take small concrete jobs?
Yes. Shed pads, short walkways, steps, AC pads and small repairs get the same careful prep and attention as a full driveway or foundation.
Do you work on residential and commercial properties?
Yes. We pour driveways, patios, slabs, walkways and foundations for homeowners, property managers and businesses.
Are you licensed and insured?
Yes. We are a registered Washington contractor, license #[LICENSE NO.], and we are happy to share proof of insurance with your estimate.
How soon can you start my project?
It depends on the season and our schedule. Spring and summer book up fastest, so it helps to reach out early. Your estimate includes a realistic start date and timeline.
- Topic 02
Pricing and quotes
What drives the cost of concrete work and how we keep pricing clear.
How much does concrete work cost?
Every project is different, so we price each one after a site visit. Size, thickness, site prep, finish and access all affect the total. You get a written, itemized quote so you know the full cost before any work starts.
What affects the price the most?
The biggest factors are the size of the area, the thickness and reinforcement needed, removing old concrete or asphalt, soil and slope conditions, and the finish you choose. Decorative finishes like stamping and color cost more than a broom finish.
Will my price change after I approve the quote?
Not without talking to you first. If you change the scope or we find hidden conditions like buried debris or soft soil, we review any cost changes with you before doing extra work.
Is concrete cheaper than pavers or asphalt?
Asphalt usually costs less up front, and pavers usually cost more. Concrete often comes out ahead over time because it lasts longer and needs less maintenance. We can walk you through the trade-offs for your project.
Can I get one quote for several projects?
Yes. If you are planning a driveway, walkway and patio, for example, we can quote them together and often pour them on the same schedule.
- Topic 03
Concrete driveways
Lifespan, thickness, curing and replacing asphalt.
How long does a concrete driveway last?
With proper base prep, reinforcement and basic care, a concrete driveway often lasts 25 to 30 years or more.
How thick should my driveway be?
Most residential driveways are 4 to 5 inches thick. For trucks, RVs or trailers we recommend 5 to 6 inches with extra reinforcement.
When can I drive on a new driveway?
Walk on it after 24 to 48 hours. Wait about 7 days before driving a car on it, and longer for heavy trucks.
Can you replace my asphalt driveway with concrete?
Yes. We remove the asphalt, repair the base where needed and pour a new concrete driveway.
Do I need a permit for a new driveway?
A new or widened driveway approach that connects to the street usually needs a permit from the City of Everett. We will tell you what your project requires.
Want answers about your own project?
Every property is different. Book a free on-site estimate and get answers, options and a written price for your exact job.
- Topic 04
Stamped concrete and patios
Finishes, safety, sealing and updating older patios.
Is stamped concrete slippery?
Sealed stamped concrete can get slick when wet. We add a slip-resistant additive to the sealer and recommend textured patterns for pool decks, steps and walkways.
How often should stamped concrete be sealed?
Every 2 to 3 years for most patios and walkways, depending on sun, traffic and weather. Fresh sealer protects the color and restores the sheen.
Stamped concrete or pavers: which is better?
Stamped concrete usually costs less and has no joints for weeds. Pavers cost more, but single pieces can be replaced. Both can look great, and we can help you choose.
Can you add steps, seat walls or a fire pit area to my patio?
Yes. We can build steps, multiple levels, seat walls, fire pit areas and footings for pergolas or covers into your patio design.
Can you update my old patio instead of replacing it?
Often, yes. If the slab is structurally sound, an overlay, acid stain or resurfacing can give it a fresh look. If it has major cracks or settling, replacement is usually the better choice.
- Topic 05
Slabs and foundations
Thickness, heavy loads, moisture and foundation types.
How thick should a concrete slab be?
Patios, walkways and shed pads are usually 4 inches. Garage floors are 5 to 6 inches, hot tub pads about 6 inches and heavy equipment areas 6 to 8 inches. We adjust for your soil and load.
Can a concrete slab support a hot tub?
Yes, when it is built for it. We pour a thicker, reinforced pad on a compacted base, sized with room to step in and out safely.
Do I need a vapor barrier under my slab?
Interior slabs like garage, basement and house floors usually get one to keep ground moisture out. Outdoor slabs such as patios and shed pads usually do not.
What type of foundation do I need?
It depends on the building, your soil, the slope of your lot and your plans. Slab-on-grade suits flat, well-drained lots, while crawlspace or pier foundations work better on slopes and softer soils.
Do I need an engineer for my foundation?
Most new homes, additions and larger buildings need engineered plans for the permit. We build to those plans. Small sheds and pads can often use standard code details.
- Topic 06
Walkways and steps
Widths, curves, steps and trees near your path.
How wide should a walkway be?
Front entry walks are usually 4 to 5 feet wide, garden paths 2 to 3 feet and side yard paths 3 to 4 feet. Accessible routes need at least 36 inches.
Can you build curved walkways?
Yes. We use flexible forms and careful layout for smooth, even curves that follow your landscaping.
Can you add concrete steps to my walkway?
Yes. Where a path meets a slope, porch or patio, we form steps with even heights and landings for safe footing.
Will tree roots crack my walkway?
Roots can lift concrete over time. We leave clearance from trees and large shrubs and can add root barriers or thicker sections where a path must pass close to a tree.
- Topic 07
Weather, curing and care
Pouring in our climate, cracks and keeping concrete looking new.
Can you pour concrete when it rains?
We schedule pours around heavy rain and cover fresh concrete when showers move in, so the surface cures evenly. Light drizzle before or after a pour can usually be managed with protection.
Can you pour concrete in winter?
Often, yes. Fresh concrete must not freeze while it cures, so in cold weather we use insulated blankets and may adjust the mix. We avoid pouring when temperatures are expected to stay below freezing.
Why does concrete crack?
Concrete shrinks slightly as it cures and moves with temperature changes. A compacted base, reinforcement and well-placed control joints keep cracks small and guide them into the joints where they are hard to see.
How do I clean and care for my concrete?
Sweep regularly, wash with mild soap and water, clean oil and grease spills quickly and reseal decorative concrete every 2 to 3 years.
Is it safe to use de-icing salt on concrete?
Avoid de-icing salts and chemicals, especially on new or decorative concrete, because they can damage the surface. Use sand for traction instead.
Still have a question?
Ask us directly. Send the form with your question or project details, or give us a call. We are happy to help, even if you are just starting to plan.
- [email protected]
- Everett, WA
- 24 Hours
We will get back to you with an answer or to book a free site visit.
Prefer to talk? Call (425) 20470-5667