Frequently asked questions
Should I choose a concrete contractor or a masonry contractor?
Choose based on the main material and repair method. Concrete contractors commonly handle slabs, driveways, patios, sidewalks, and decorative finishes, while masonry contractors are better suited to brick, stone, mortar, and historic-home repairs.
For projects combining both, ask who will manage the full scope and how responsibilities are divided.
What should a patio quote include?
A useful quote should describe demolition, excavation, base preparation, reinforcement, concrete or paver materials, edges, finishing, curing, and cleanup. It should also identify exclusions such as drainage changes, permits, or repairs to adjacent structures.
Ask for the proposed dimensions and finish in writing so different quotes can be compared fairly.
How far ahead should I book outdoor concrete work?
Outdoor projects often need advance planning because preparation, weather, curing, and material coordination affect the schedule. Ask about the earliest site visit, the expected start window, and what happens if conditions delay placement.
A contractor should also explain when the new surface can be walked on or used.
Can an existing driveway or walkway be repaired instead of replaced?
That depends on the cause and extent of the damage. Ask whether cracking, settlement, drainage, or poor base preparation is involved, and whether a repair will address the underlying issue.
Request both repair and replacement options when practical, with the expected service life and limitations of each.