In the last few decades, concrete has changed significantly. Technologies surrounding concrete additives and formulations have drastically improved, leading to virtually endless applications across every imaginable industry. Nevertheless, when it comes to concrete, it’s all too easy to set expectations that simply don’t align with reality. Understanding concrete’s true potential can help you make better choices about how to use it in your projects.

What to Expect from Your Concrete

CRACKS – Concrete will crack. We don’t like it either, but it will happen, so we cannot guarantee that concrete will not crack despite all precautions being taken. If a crack appears, we may be able to assist in the prevention of further cracking. The industry standard for repair or replacement for cracked concrete is more significant than ¼” of an inch displacement in height or gap. Cracks exceeding ¼” of an inch in height or gap may warrant repair or replacement. We will replace or repair only the affected area if we determine that repair is required. Repairing concrete cracks with caulk or mortar will be considered an acceptable repair form. Surface or hairline cracks may not be covered. Top coats and caps over existing concrete are not covered.

FLAKING or POPPING: While concrete is very durable, it is not always without flaws. Harsh weather may cause the surface of your concrete to flake or pop off. A stone or stone(s) close to the surface may be exposed, but such exposure will note compromise the integrity of the slab. We are unable to warranty any damages caused by harsh weather, as Mother Nature always has the upper hand on us. The industry standard for repair or replacement of flaking or popping concrete is a minimum of 20% of the total work area being affected. Depending on the issue, we may warranty flaking or popping concrete if 20% or more of the total work area is affected. We will repair or replace only the affected area if repair or replacement is required.

DISCOLORATION: It is not possible to match the color of your existing porch, sidewalk, driveway, etc. Sometimes, different pours on larger jobs are subject to variation in color. Color variations are minor and may fade over time. If you are considering replacing only a section or sections of an existing driveway, patio, or sidewalk, please be aware that a color difference is very likely. It may be very noticeable and may take years to blend together. AEF Concrete cannot guarantee that our work will match your existing product.

Colors represented on a computer screen or a printed brochure are just a representation of results and should not be relied upon for the final color of your project. Despite our best efforts, minor discoloration can still occur. There are a variety of different factors, such as variations in slump, cement type/brand, finished texture, the timing of operations, the curing process, choice of release agents, surface treatments, humidity, and other weather conditions, age of concrete, etc.) that can and may produce distinct variations in color appearance. Our warranty does not cover color variation.

SHIFTING and SETTLING: It is common for driveways, sidewalks, porches, patios, and garage floors to crack or change over time. This is not necessarily a sign of poor workmanship. We cannot prevent sub-grade settling, underground root growth, or shrinkage of the subsurface layers. We cannot warranty against settling because the sub-grade level is beyond our control.

FROST HEAVE and CRACKING: There are many freeze-thaw cycles throughout any given winter. During these events, your concrete is likely to heave but will most likely settle back to its normal elevation again. However, your concrete is susceptible to cracking during the frost heave event. Cracking related to frost heave is not a warranty issue.

FINISHES: Interior surfaces are generally finished smooth (basement floor, garage, sometimes porches and patios). A smooth finish allows for easy maintenance. Please be aware that smooth finishes are slippery when wet. Exterior concrete, such as walks and driveways, are broom-finished. A broom finish is less slippery and designed to be walked upon even when wet. Stamped surfaces and stained surfaces are sealed to help maintain the beautiful characteristics of the color and design. The sealer used will cause a slippery surface when wet. Please view the information provided below regarding the use and importance of sealers. Additionally, stamped or stained surfaces will require maintenance; how frequently is out of our control.

The “Do Not’s” of Customer Care

1. Do not drive on “new” concrete for at least 7 days.
2. Do not allow water to drain beneath the slab, which may cause settlement cracks.
3. Do not use salt or other de-icing chemicals on the concrete. This is especially harmful during the first winter. If at all possible, hose off your car of any street salt before parking on concrete.
4. Do not allow your dog’s urine on your decorative concrete to cycle through the numerous freeze-thaw cycles during the winter. Dog urine is highly acidic and can damage your decorative concrete. We recommend cleaning it as soon as you witness it.