Frequently Asked Questions
What are your typical concrete specifications?
We typically use a 6 sack ½" mix, which is 3500 PSI. For city sidewalks, we use a ¾” mix. Depending on the application, we can add waterproofing agents to the mix, as well as fibers for additional strength.
Do you use reinforcing steel?
For most applications of 4” thick concrete, we use #3 rebar 18” oc. For thicker slabs, we use #4 rebar. Specific plans may call out larger rebar.
Do you prep the surged before install?
Soil conditions determine how much base rock we bring in. Hard clay soil will require more than sandy soils. We always machine compact the base rock.
Do I need a permit?
For most patios, walkways and driveways, you do not need a permit. Work done in the city and county encroachment areas needs a permit. Retaining walls over three feet tall need engineering plans which entail a permit process.
Why do I have to pay for work done on city sidewalks?
Local municipalities passed ordinances making property owners responsible for damaged concrete sidewalks, curbs and gutter, as well as making the property owners libel for injuries. In addition to paying for any needed work, the property owner must also have the contractor pull a permit.
Do you carry insurance in case somebody gets injured on the job and/or property gets damaged?
As a licensed contractor, we carry $1 million in worker’s compensation insurance and liability insurance respectively.
What is your warranty?
We warranty our work for one year. This would cover any structural failures and cracks that open up more than 1/8th inch in width.
Can cracks be prevented?
Concrete will and does eventually crack – we hope later rather than sooner. Whitlow takes every precaution to minimize cracking which mainly entails preparing a proper subgrade and compaction. We cut in deep joints at proper intervals to account for natural contraction and expansion.
A tree root has uplifted our concrete. What do we do? We want to save the tree.
The uplifted portion should be saw cut and removed. Sometimes an arborist needs to be brought in to determine how many roots can be cut or ground. A three-foot root barrier can then be installed and the concrete repoured.
Do you do masonry work?
We usually do masonry work in conjunction with concrete work. We do many kinds of brick and stone installs on both flat and vertical surfaces. We also stucco coat both concrete and block walls.
Do I need to seal my new concrete ?
Sealing is always an option but we highly recommend it for all stamped concrete to ensure a rich color. Sealers can range from penetrating natural look to high gloss lacquer.
How often should I seal my concrete?
Frequency of sealing depends on the desired look. Some customers seal once and let the concrete naturally fade. To maintain a vibrant look and protect the surface from oil, grease, etc., we recommend sealing every one or two years, depending on exposure to the elements, especially direct sunlight.
Do you do Thin Coat Overlays?
Removing and replacing older concrete yields a much better product, but we do install thin coatings where we deem it feasible. When the old concrete is relatively free of cracks and has good uniformity, an overlay can look beautiful.
Do you do concrete staining?
We principally do acid staining and solid stain coatings. They are available in many styles and colors. We can do samples from which the customer may choose. Note that older concrete does not take stain coatings as well as newer concrete.
Pavers VS Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete is an impervious surface. Pavers allow water to permeate into the subgrade. Paver installs are generally about 25% more expensive than stamped concrete, depending on the type of pavers chosen. Stamped concrete is more durable over time as pavers can become uneven. Weed seeds can germinate between gaps in the pavers which may require the application of weed killer.
Do I need to give you a deposit?
Whitlow Concrete Inc. does not require a deposit to begin work. Payment is expected when the entire job is completed. If it is a large multi-pour, then Whitlow Concrete Inc. may ask for a progress payment after the first pour
Do you do small jobs?
We do both small and large jobs, from very small slabs to commercial foundations.
How soon can we use our new concrete?
Generally you can walk on freshly poured concrete after 24 hours. To drive on new concrete, we recommend five to seven days. Concrete is considered fully cured after 28 days.