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Frequently Asked Questions

If you are looking to get a better understanding of what is involved in a concrete project then you are in the right place. Being informed about the materials used and what to expect from a professional can make your experience with a contractor smooth and enjoyable.

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How much will my project cost?

Every project has different variables that can affect the price. Several examples would be: accessibility, project size, the type of project, desired finish, and materials chosen. That being said you can use the information below to find a rough estimate:

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Fawcett Concrete stamped concrete projects range from $12/sqft - $20/sqft. The type of stamp, color choices, size, stained borders, and steps can influence the price.

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Fawcett Concrete broomed concrete projects range from $7/sqft - $10/sqft. Project size and the quantity of prep work needed are the biggest dictators for broom-finished concrete projects.

What are important things to make sure my contractor does?

When you are looking for a quality contractor there are multiple things you should look for and ask. If it is important to protect yourself, your property, and the contractor make sure that your contractor is licensed and insured. It can also be helpful to check references and/or see any previous work done by the contractor.

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Don't be afraid to ask what specific materials will be used. For a quality product that will last as long as possible, it is important to have good materials. The 3 most important materials that improve the longevity and quality of concrete are (1) a high PSI concrete mixture (2) metal reinforcement (3) and a stone sub-base under the concrete. 

What materials does Fawcett Concrete use?

Fawcett Concrete takes pride in our material choices so that we can provide a high caliber product. Every project starts with a compacted stone sub-base. This provides a flat and solid foundation for the concrete to sit on. All of our concrete is reinforced with 3/8" steel rebar tied in a grid every 24-36 inches. The steel holds the concrete together and provides superior tensile strength as well. We use a 3,500 PSI concrete mixture or greater on every project. The high PSI concrete handles compression better, is more resistant to spalling, and lasts longer.

Do I need rebar or fiber mesh?

All concrete should be reinforced to create the strongest end product. Metal (steel) rebar is the strongest regularly used form of reinforcement. It provides extreme tensile strength which holds the concrete together and prevents separation. Fiber mesh is a weaker and cheaper alternative that provides more small scale reinforcement. Fiber mesh provides additional compressive strength and some tensile strength. Fiber should not be used to replace rebar, but rather used alongside rebar when additional strength is required.

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Fawcett Concrete used rebar in every project. It costs more than fiber, but the benefit is ten-fold. We add fiber to projects if a customer requests it or if we believe the customer would benefit from it.

Do I need to seal my concrete?

The short answer is that it depends. If you want your concrete to be as strong as possible, last as long as possible, and look the best it can throughout the years then YES! Sealer helps protect concrete from damage caused by freeze/thaw cycles in the wintertime, stop leaves from staining the surface, and adds additional strength to the concrete.

Why is the top of my concrete popping off?

When the surface of concrete appears to be popping off it is called 'spalling'.  While this is not aesthetically pleasing, it doesn't mean that you have structural issues. Spalling is generally caused by salt damage in the wintertime, concrete that has not been re-sealed every several years, or a low PSI concert mixture that is improperly finished.

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To prevent your new concrete from spalling in the future make sure to avoid using salt in the wintertime on your concrete as well as re-sealing your concrete at least once every four years. If you are looking to have concrete poured at your house make sure to ask your contractor if they include sealing the concrete in the price. Also, ask what PSI the contractor will be using. 

Contact Us

Essary Drive
Knoxville, TN 37918

(865) 370-6720

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