Home FAQs
Frequently asked questions at Concreters Townsville
Answers to the questions we hear most about quotes, concrete specs, curing, sealing and decorative finishes.
Quotes, pricing and timing
How do I get a quote?
You may request a quote via our website or call us. Request a quote online.
Do you have a square metre rate?
We quote according to the project, so we don’t have a square metre rate.
What is your lead time?
Our usual lead time is two weeks, but this may vary.
How long will it take before my project is finished?
This varies depending on the project. Normally, we can excavate a 50 square metre driveway in one day and prepare it. We place the concrete and finish the project on the second day.
Concrete terms and specs
What does m² mean?
M², or square metre, is a unit of measurement. A surface that is one metre long and one metre wide is equivalent to one square metre.
What does MPa mean?
MPa is another unit of measurement that means megapascal. It is used in concrete to quantify its compressive strength.
What is a good MPa?
Usually, concrete used for residential properties ranges from 17.5 MPa to 50 MPa compressive strength, which increases over a period of 28 days. We normally use 20 MPa and 25 MPa for paths, footings and driveways unless you have a different request.
What type of steel reinforcing will be used?
We use SL72 steel reinforcing mesh for concrete driveways. It is usually placed on top of chairs, which elevate it towards the centre of the concrete pad.
Curing, sealing and care
How long do I need to wait before I can use my concrete?
It is usually okay to carefully walk on new concrete after 12 hours, depending on the concrete finish. However, we recommend waiting for one week or more before driving on a brand new driveway.
When should I apply sealer on the concrete?
You should apply concrete sealers such as high-performance epoxy, urethane, and acrylic sealers 28 days after placing the concrete.
How often should decorative concrete be sealed?
Factors such as sun exposure, wear and tear and other weathering effects directly affect how often you should seal decorative concrete. As a general rule, we recommend doing it every two years.
Why is sealing my concrete necessary?
By regularly sealing your concrete, its lifespan increases dramatically. It is best to seal stencilled and stamped concrete every two years or so.
What should I do if my concrete gets slippery?
Usually, you can have decorative concrete sealed. During the process, an anti-slip grit can be applied.
Cracks and repairs
Why does cracking occur?
Due to expanding and contracting, it is normal for concrete to crack.
Are expansion cuts necessary?
To reduce the risk of cracking, we recommend running expansion cuts through concrete in strategic areas.
Is it possible to repair cracks?
Cracks can definitely be treated or repaired, but the crack repair will be very obvious. We recommend adding a resurfacing product over the entire area after treating or repairing a crack to cover the repair.
How can I make old, dull concrete look new?
There are many ways to make concrete look new, and selecting the method to use depends on individual circumstance. Options include washing and sealing, sealing with a tint, stenciling or resurfacing.
Decorative finishes
What is stamped concrete?
Stamped concrete is created with a textured mat pressed onto new concrete. The stamp mats look like several effects such as brick, slate tile, bush rock, flagstone, London cobble and wood planks. Stamped concrete is commonly used in patios, pool surrounds, paths and driveways.
Why should I use stamped concrete?
It offers a beautiful, realistic pattern, albeit artificial.
What is exposed aggregate?
It is concrete with its top surface washed off to show off the stones (aggregates) underneath. There are a lot of exposed aggregate concrete mixes to select from.
Why should I use exposed aggregate?
It is budget-friendly, durable, and very low maintenance.
What is coloured concrete?
It is plain concrete with tints added to the mix to achieve a particular colour.
Why should I use coloured concrete?
It is a cheap but effective way of upgrading plain grey concrete to a colourful, stylish concrete surface that you can customise to complement your surroundings.
What is stencilled concrete?
Often mistaken for stamped concrete, stencilled concrete is placed on top of old concrete at a later date.
Why should I use stencilled concrete?
It is an excellent way of changing the overall look of your concrete without spending too much money.
Still have a question?
Talk to us, and we will be more than happy to tell you more about our services and quality workmanship in Townsville QLD and Kirwan QLD 4810.