Patios, Paths, and Foundations
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Patios, Paths, and Foundations

What kinds of structures do concrete contractors create? They are often hired to pour foundations. Whether it's a basement or a slab foundation, concrete is the way to go. Another common job is pouring patios. A concrete patio is nice and durable, and it also looks nice. Then, there are the smaller projects: concrete stairs, pathways, planting boxes, and more. You don't have to be a concrete contractor to learn about these services. In fact, this blog is written for everyone, and no matter who you are, it will teach you more about concrete work and the people who do it.

Patios, Paths, and Foundations

How A Concrete Driveway Apron Is Replaced With A New One

Freddie Andrews

If your concrete driveway apron has heaved, sunk, or cracked, prompt repairs are needed. If you live in a city, the apron is usually on the easement of your property. This is where water lines are buried, and where public sidewalks are installed. This easement is considered city property, and they may fine you if you don't make repairs to an apron fast enough. They might even make repairs themselves and then send you a bill for the work. 

When you see damage on your driveway apron, call a concrete contractor to make repairs. They can replace the apron without bothering the rest of your driveway if your driveway is still in good shape. Here are details about a concrete driveway apron you should know.

Aprons Have Their Own Codes

The driveway apron is the part of your driveway that connects the rest of your driveway to the city street. The apron often has codes separate from your driveway. For instance, the concrete used to make up the apron may need to be thicker than the rest of your driveway.

Codes may also apply to the length and width of the apron, how to curb the apron, how to build the base, and whether rebar is needed. Codes for an apron can be confusing, and that's why it's best to let a concrete contractor handle the job. They are familiar with codes and know exactly what has to be done when replacing a concrete driveway apron.

The Project Requires A Few Helpers

To make a concrete driveway apron, concrete is poured over the base. This involves bringing a mixing truck to your property and pouring the wet concrete from the truck into the apron area. The area is prepared first by putting up a wood form that will hold the concrete in place until it hardens. Rebar is added during this step to reinforce the concrete.

The concrete is poured in small sections so the crew can spread it around before it dries. In the summer when it's hot outside, poured concrete can get hard fast, so the crew has to work fast. This is another reason why doing a DIY installation of a concrete driveway apron isn't a good idea.

An Apron Starts With A Solid Base

When the old apron is busted up and removed, the contractor may also need to excavate some soil so the apron will be the right thickness and be level with your driveway and the street. Sand or gravel is added to the excavated area and then tamped down with a machine so the base is properly compacted and resistant to shifting.

Contact a local company, such as John and Jerry, to learn more. 


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