Masonry & Concrete FAQs

The terms are often used interchangeably, but cement is an ingredient of concrete, while concrete is mix of sand, gravel or crushed stone and paste. Cement makes up anywhere from 10-15% of the mix. If you hear people say “cement sidewalk” or “cement mixer,” be sure to correct them with the proper terms: “concrete sidewalk” and “concrete mixer.”

Like any other material, the volume of concrete will change slightly when it dries out (about 1/16 of an inch in 10 ft). This is why we put joints in concrete pavements, floors and other products to let it crack in a straight line at the joint.

You can use the following dry or wet methods:

• Shotblasting
• Flame Cleaning
• Sandblasting
• Grinding
• Scabbing
• Steam Cleaning
• Low Pressure Water Spray/Blasting
• High Pressure Water Blasting
• Chemical Cleaning

Check with your concrete contractor about which method would be best for your particular situation.

Two days for most standard residential jobs. One day is to tear out the existing driveway, while the second is used to pour the new one.

It’s best to allow up to a week. This way, it will be hard enough to sustain the weight of your vehicle.

Allow up to a day, so the concrete can cure.

No, because there’s no such thing as a safe de-icer for concrete. Plain sand should be used for traction, as de-icing will cause flaking.

Yes. Freeze and thaw cycles will cause your concrete to flake.

Yes! It should be applied as needed, especially in the spring before the snow and traffic take effect.