Bloomington IL Residential and Commercial Concrete FAQs

FAQs

Bloomington IL Residential Concrete

and Commercial Concrete Questions

  • Should my concrete be cracking?

    Over the years, your concrete is bound to develop cracks, a result of its brittle characteristics. As it dries and solidifies, the concrete shrinks, creating stress that can lead to cracking. 

    Despite its initial liquid state, concrete is at risk of damage as it continues to age.

  • What should I do if my concrete cracks?

    As soon as you notice cracks appearing on your concrete patio or concrete driveway, it's important to act quickly and seek help. There are numerous effective techniques available for repairing cracked concrete

    However, for the best outcomes, it's wise to enlist the services of our skilled concrete contractors. 

    By opting for proactive concrete maintenance, you can manage your costs and prevent the hassle that comes with damaged surfaces.

  • What’s the difference between concrete and cement?

    The secret to concrete's strength lies in its main ingredient: cement. This fine powder is expertly created by blending calcined lime and clay. 

    However, the true transformation occurs when cement is combined with sand, gravel, and water. 

    This mixture quickly forms a binding paste that, when subjected to significant pressure, undergoes an incredible change, resulting in the robust and enduring material we call concrete.

  • Just what exactly is flatwork?

    Flatwork refers to any concrete surface that is poured horizontally. Our expertise includes concrete slab installation, foundation construction, and curbing services. 


    As a top concrete contractor in Bloomington, IL, we strive for excellence in every project. Call us now at 309-641-2019 for a complimentary estimate!

  • What is decorative concrete, and what type of decorative concrete services do you provide?

    Elevate your concrete with our stunning decorative solutions! 

    From acid stained concrete, stained concrete and stamped concrete to beautiful ornamental overlays, we offer an extensive array of services to revamp your environment. 


    Share your creative ideas with us, and we’ll work tirelessly to make your vision a reality. 


    Don’t wait—reach out today at 309-641-2019 for a free estimate!

  • How may years will Stamped Concrete last?

     In the past, stamped concrete was known for deteriorating faster than standard concrete, frequently showing signs of cracking and crumbling well before its time. 


    However, with recent technological advancements and improved methods, stamped concrete now boasts an average lifespan of 25 years. 


    This remarkable durability is largely due to the sealants used during the installation process. To maintain its strength, it's essential to have it resealed every 2 to 4 years. 


    Don’t hesitate to reach out to us at 309-641-2019 for a complimentary estimate!

  • What is concrete actually made of?

    When it comes to creating durable structures, concrete is the top contender. This incredible material is produced by mixing aggregates with a paste. 

    The combination of sand, gravel, water, and cement triggers a chemical reaction called hydration. 

    As hydration occurs, the mixture hardens, firmly connecting the aggregates. This results in the versatile material we commonly call concrete. 

    Ready to kick off your construction adventure? Contact us today at 309-641-2019 for a complimentary estimate!

  • Can you provide commercial concrete services?

    We take great pride in being acknowledged as a top concrete contractor in Bloomington, IL


    Our expertise spans a variety of commercial concrete services, including installation, repair, resurfacing, and demolition. You can count on us to keep disruptions to your workspace or workflow to a minimum. 


    Reach out today at 309-641-2019 for a free estimate!

Common Commercial Concrete Questions

  • Just how thick should Commercial Concrete be?

    When it comes to commercial concrete slabs, we believe in delivering uncompromising thickness. 

    Our slabs typically measure a sturdy 6 inches, offering a solid base for parking lots and buildings alike. 

    To further enhance their durability, we pour the edges, known as aprons, to depths of 8 to 10 inches. This extra thickness ensures that our slabs can endure the rigors of time. If you need a reliable concrete slab, don’t hesitate to call us at 309-641-2019 for a free estimate!

  • What is Commercial Grade Concrete?

    As a premier concrete contractor in Bloomington, IL, he key to our success is that we rely on C40 commercial-grade concrete mix for the most challenging projects. 


    Be it structural supports, footings, foundations, roadworks, or agricultural requirements, our concrete stands strong. 


    Call us today for a free estimate at 309-641-2019

  • How much weight should a 6 inch concrete slab hold?

    Several factors play a role in determining how much weight a 6-inch commercial concrete slab can bear, including the concrete type, reinforcement, and the condition of the soil beneath it. 

    enerally, you can expect a 6-inch slab to support about 150 pounds per square foot of evenly spread weight. 

    Call us today at 309-641-2019 for a complimentary estimate!

  • Why is concrete the best material for parking lots and sidewalks?

    Not only is concrete an attractive and economical choice for construction, but it also brings a wealth of additional benefits that make it the go-to option for companies and municipalities. 


    Whether it’s for concrete parking lots, loading docks, or sidewalks, its versatility is unmatched. Plus, concrete is a friend to the environment, crafted from natural materials and free from harmful emissions, with minimal carbon dioxide output during its lifecycle.


    When it comes to maintenance, concrete stands out as a top choice, requiring very little effort to keep it looking great. Properly installed, it can preserve its classic beauty and value for decades. Its resilience is second to none, as it withstands cracks and breaks with ease, boasting a lifespan that can exceed 60 years with minimal maintenance. 


    Concrete also plays a vital role in road safety by enhancing traction and contributes to quieter communities by reducing noise levels. And let’s not overlook the cost benefits—concrete is often much cheaper than alternatives like asphalt. So, why delay? Embrace the advantages of concrete today! 


    Reach out to us at 309-641-2019 for a free estimate and let’s make your vision a reality..

  • How can you remove stains from concrete?

    To keep your surfaces looking pristine, we use a fantastic sealing compound that effectively prevents stains. In the event that stains do appear, we offer a variety of powerful techniques to eliminate them from concrete. 


    For wet treatments, we combine water with specialized chemicals designed for the specific type of stain. These chemical solutions break down the stain, enabling us to blot it away or even bleach it for complete removal. 


    On the other hand, we also employ dry or mechanical methods such as sandblasting, flame cleaning, shot blasting, grinding, scabbing, planning, and scouring. 


    Just a quick tip: be careful with steel-wire brushes, as they can leave behind metal particles that might rust and create new stains on your concrete. 


    For further details, reach out to Bloomington IL Concrete Services at 309-641-2019!

  • Does my new concrete require maintenance?

    Known for its outstanding durability, concrete is a top choice for many. 

    After the installation process, we apply a pure acrylic copolymer curing and sealing compound, which establishes a tough protective layer that can last for many years. 


    To ensure your concrete remains in excellent condition, avoid deicing chemicals in the winter, steer clear of harsh acids for cleaning stains, regularly use a power washer, and think about resealing every 5 to 10 years. 

    For more information, contact Bloomington IL Concrete Services at 309-641-2019!

  • Is it bad to apply salt to concrete in the winter?

    When it comes to caring for your concrete in Bloomington, IL, our top priority is its durability and lifespan. 

    We strongly advise against using salt for melting ice on concrete surfaces. Instead, we suggest opting for sand, which effectively reduces slipperiness. 

    Concrete is a porous material that can absorb water easily. 

    When salt comes into contact with snow or ice, it turns into saltwater that penetrates the concrete. This can lead to problems like discoloration, cracking, or crumbling. To mitigate these risks, we recommend using salt carefully and quickly removing any slush and leftover salt. 

    By taking these steps, you can help prevent freeze/thaw issues and ensure your concrete lasts longer. If you have any questions or need a free estimate, don’t hesitate to call Bloomington IL Concrete Services at 309-641-2019!

  • What is concrete scaling, and what causes it?

     Various factors can influence concrete scaling, both prior to and during the mixing and placement phases. 

    A key issue arises when concrete is placed in cold conditions without the necessary temperatures for effective curing, which can lead to scaling on the surface. 


    To alleviate this problem, consider using cold weather blankets to cover the concrete, as they help maintain the required temperatures and reduce scaling risks. It's also vital to ensure proper curing and finishing. Insufficient attention to these aspects can weaken the concrete surface. Additionally, be cautious with the use of deicing chemicals, as excessive amounts can saturate the concrete and compromise its strength. 


    Proper mixing techniques and correct ingredient ratios are crucial as well—adding too much water can weaken the concrete's ability to endure various weather conditions. 


    Using non-air entrained concrete for exterior applications can also contribute to scaling issues. For any further questions, don’t hesitate to contact Bloomington IL Concrete Services at 309-641-2019 for a complimentary estimate!

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Concrete Contractors Bloomington-Normal IL | Residential Concrete | Commercial Concrete | Concrete Repair