Question 1

How long before I can walk or drive on a new concrete driveway or slab?

Accepted Answer

You can typically walk on it after 24 to 48 hours. For light vehicle traffic, plan on waiting about a week. Full strength — meaning it's ready for regular vehicle use and heavier loads — takes about 28 days. We'll give you exact guidance for your specific pour before we leave the site.

Question 2

Why does freeze-thaw resistance matter so much for a Fredericton driveway?

Accepted Answer

New Brunswick goes through well over 100 freeze-thaw cycles every winter — more than most of Canada. Each cycle pushes moisture into the concrete's pores, and when it freezes it expands and can cause surface scaling or cracking over time if the mix and installation weren't done with that climate in mind. We use air-entrained concrete mixes designed to handle repeated freezing and thawing.

Question 3

Should I use de-icing salt on a brand-new driveway?

Accepted Answer

We recommend avoiding de-icing salt on new concrete through its first winter. Fresh concrete is more vulnerable to salt-related surface damage before it's fully cured — after that first season it can handle normal winter use.

Question 4

When's the best time of year to pour a concrete driveway or slab in Fredericton?

Accepted Answer

Late spring through early fall gives the most reliable results, since concrete cures faster and more predictably in mild temperatures. Cold-weather pours are possible with the right precautions, but they take longer to reach full strength.

Question 5

How soon can I seal my new concrete?

Accepted Answer

We generally recommend waiting about 28 days, once the concrete has fully cured, before applying a sealer.

Question 6

What causes concrete driveways to crack, and can it be prevented?

Accepted Answer

The biggest culprit in this climate is freeze-thaw cycling — water gets into small cracks or pores, freezes, expands, and gradually widens the damage. A well-designed mix, proper reinforcement, and correctly placed control joints go a long way toward preventing it in the first place.

Question 7

Do you offer stamped concrete?

Accepted Answer

Yes — stamped concrete is available for patios, walkways, and other decorative applications. See our Stamped Concrete Patios service page for details.

Question 8

What areas do you serve?

Accepted Answer

Fredericton, Oromocto, New Maryland, and Hanwell, plus the surrounding areas.

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