Common Residential Concrete Questions

  • What’s the difference between cement and concrete?

    The magic behind concrete lies in its primary ingredient, cement. This powdery substance is meticulously crafted by blending calcined lime and clay. 

    However, it is when cement is combined with sand, gravel, and water that the real transformation occurs. 

    The resulting mixture swiftly forms a binding paste, which, when subjected to high pressures, undergoes a remarkable metamorphosis, giving birth to the resilient and rugged construction material we fondly call "concrete."

  • Is my concrete supposed to crack?

    Over time, your concrete is likely to develop cracks due to its brittle nature. As concrete dries and hardens, it undergoes shrinkage which can lead to stress and ultimately result in cracking. 

    Despite its initial fluid state, concrete is prone to damage as it ages.

  • What can I do if my concrete cracks?

    When cracks start to mar the surface of your concrete patio or concrete driveway, it's crucial not to delay seeking assistance. Fortunately, there are several effective methods to repair cracked concrete. However, for superior results, it's advisable to call upon the expertise of experienced concrete contractors. 

    By investing in proactive concrete services, you can keep your expenses in check and avoid any unnecessary inconvenience caused by cracked concrete.

  • What exactly is flatwork?

    Any concrete surface poured horizontally is considered flatwork. Our services encompass concrete slab installation, foundation work, and curbing. As a premier concrete contractor in Peoria IL, we are dedicated to delivering impeccable results. 

    Contact us today at 309-271-1122 for a no-cost estimate!

  • What is concrete made of?

    When it comes to building strong surfaces like driveways, parking lots and more - concrete is the ultimate choice. This remarkable material is made by mixing aggregates and paste. 

    By combining sand, gravel, water, and cement, a chemical reaction called hydration occurs. Through hydration, the mixture solidifies, resulting in the aggregates being tightly bound together. 

    This process gives birth to the versatile substance we commonly refer to as concrete. If you're ready to embark on your construction journey, give us a call today at 309-271-1122 for a complimentary estimate!

  • How long will Stamped Concrete last?

    Previously, stamped concrete had a tendency to break down sooner than regular concrete, often developing cracks and crumbling prematurely. 

    Thanks to advancements in technology and techniques, stamped concrete now has an impressive lifespan of 25 years on average. This longevity is attributed to the sealants applied during installation. 

    Remember to have it resealed every 2-4 years to ensure its durability. 

    Call us now at 309-271-1122 to receive a free estimate!

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

    Enhance your concrete with our exquisite decorative options! 

    Whether you want stained concrete, stamped concrete, or ornamental overlays, we have a wide range of services to transform your space. 

    Share your unique design vision with us, and we'll go above and beyond to bring it to life exactly as you envisioned. 

    Don't hesitate, call us now at 309-271-1122 for a complimentary estimate!

  • Are you able to provide commercial concrete services?

    We are proud to be recognized as one of the leading concrete contractors in Peoria Il. Our services cover a wide range of commercial concrete work such as installation, repair, resurfacing, and demolition. Rest assured, we will ensure minimal disruption to your workspace or workflow.

Common Commercial Questions

  • Why is concrete best for parking lots and sidewalks?

    Concrete is not only a stunning and cost-effective building solution, but it also offers a multitude of other advantages that make it the top choice for businesses and municipalities for things like concrete parking lots, concrete loading docks, concrete sidewalks and much more.

    Concrete is an eco-warrior, as it is completely environmentally-friendly. It emits no harmful substances and is composed of naturally occurring materials. The carbon dioxide emissions generated during its production and usage are relatively minimal.


    Concrete requires very little maintenance and, when properly installed, will maintain its timeless beauty and value for many years to come. Its durability is unparalleled compared to other construction materials, as it remains unyielding to cracks, breaks, or shattering. In fact, with minimal upkeep, concrete can endure for an impressive lifespan of 60 years or more.


    Not only does concrete provide exceptional longevity, but it also enhances safety on roads by improving traction. Additionally, it contributes to creating more peaceful communities by reducing noise pollution. 


    And let's not forget about the cost advantage! Concrete is significantly more affordable than alternative materials like asphalt.


    So why wait? Experience the wonders of concrete today! Give us a call at 309-271-1122 for a complimentary estimate and let us transform your vision into reality.

  • What's Commercial Grade Concrete?

    We are proud to be recognized as one of the premier concrete contractors in Peoria Il. Our secret? We use C40 commercial grade concrete mix for the toughest projects. Whether it's structural supports, footings, foundations, roadworks, or agricultural needs, our concrete can handle it all. 

    Give us a call today for a complimentary estimate at 309-271-1122.

  • How thick should Commercial Concrete be?

    When it comes to commercial concrete slabs, we don't compromise on thickness. On average, our slabs are a solid 6 inches thick, providing a sturdy foundation for parking lots and structures. B

    ut that's not all - we go the extra mile by pouring them even thicker at the edges. These outer sections, called aprons, can reach depths of 8 to 10 inches, ensuring maximum durability. 

    So, if you're in need of a concrete slab that can withstand the test of time, give us a call today at 309-271-1122 for a free estimate!

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

    Various factors, including the type of concrete, reinforcement, and soil conditions, determine the weight capacity of a 6-inch commercial concrete slab

    On average, a 6-inch concrete slab can handle approximately 150 pounds per square foot of evenly distributed weight. 

    Reach out to us today at 309-271-1122 for a no-cost estimate!

  • What causes concrete scaling?

    Scaling in concrete can be influenced by various factors, both before and during the mixing and placement process. 

    One such factor is the placement of concrete in cold weather without adequate temperatures for proper curing. This can potentially lead to scaling issues on the concrete surface. 

    However, you can mitigate this problem by using cold weather blankets to cover the concrete, as they help maintain temperatures and minimize scaling. It's also crucial to ensure sufficient curing and finishing, as inadequate measures can result in a weak concrete surface. 

    Additionally, be cautious of excessive deicing chemicals, as they can saturate the concrete and weaken its strength. Another aspect to consider is the proper mixing of concrete and using the correct ingredient proportions. Avoid adding excessive water to the mix, as it can weaken the concrete's ability to withstand different weather conditions. Lastly, using non-air entrained exterior concrete can contribute to scaling. 

    If you have more questions, don't hesitate to contact Peoria IL Concrete Services at 309-271-1122.

  • Is it okay to apply salt to concrete?

    When it comes to maintaining your concrete in Peoria IL, we prioritize their longevity and durability. That's why we strongly discourage the use of salt for melting ice on any concrete surface. Instead, we recommend using sand as the ideal solution to reduce ice slipperiness. 

    Concrete is a porous material that easily absorbs water. When salt mixes with snow or ice, it transforms into saltwater, which is then absorbed by the concrete. 

    This absorption can lead to undesirable consequences such as discolored, cracked, or crumbling concrete. To prevent these issues, we advise applying salt and promptly removing the resulting slush, along with any excess salt. By taking these precautions, you can minimize freeze/thaw problems and ensure the longevity of your concrete. 

    If you have any further questions, don't hesitate to reach out to Peoria IL Concrete Services at 309-271-1122.

  • Does concrete require maintenance?

    Concrete is known for its exceptional durability. After installation, we add a pure acrylic copolymer curing and sealing compound to create a strong protective layer that can last for years. To keep your concrete looking its best, avoid using deicing chemicals in winter, steer clear of harsh acids for stain removal, regularly clean with a power washer, and think about applying a sealant every 5-10 years. For more information, contact Peoria IL Concrete Services at 309-271-1122.

  • How do you remove stains from concrete?

    To prevent staining, we utilize a sealing compound that works wonders. However, if stains do occur, we have a range of effective methods to remove them from concrete. 

    • For wet treatments, we apply water and specific chemicals tailored to the stain's nature. 
    • Chemical treatments dissolve the staining, allowing us to blot it from the concrete's surface or even bleach it to make it disappear. Alternatively, we have dry or mechanical methods like sandblasting, flame cleaning, shot blasting, grinding, scabbing, planning, and scouring. 

    Just remember to be cautious with steel-wire brushes as they can leave behind metal particles that may rust and stain the concrete.