FAQS
How do I determine how much concrete I'll need?
What are the differences between concrete and cement?
What’s the difference between what Cemstone delivered and the bagged mixes I can buy at a home center?
What if I’m not interested in doing it myself?
How much can I expect to pay for a new concrete driveway?
Are there different kinds of concrete?
What if I don’t want grey concrete?
Where can I find information on residential building forms?
What goes underneath the concrete?
What should I do when placing new concrete against existing concrete?
What kind of tools will I need to pour and finish concrete?
What if I need concrete delivered to the back of my house, or someplace that’s located away from the driveway or street?
How long does it take for concrete to set up?
Is concrete affected by weather?
Will Cemstone finish the concrete for me?
What should I do to the concrete when the placing and finishing are completed?
How do I protect my new concrete?
Is there a maintenance program I should implement for my new concrete?
What is the difference between “Sealing” concrete and “Curing” concrete?
How do I determine how much concrete I'll need?
Click here to see our easy-to-use Concrete Calculator to determine how much concrete you'll need for your project. And if you need to speak to someone about delivery information, click here.
What are the differences between concrete and cement?
Cement is a substance made by burning a mixture of clay and limestone; in essence, a mixture of silicates and aluminates of calcium and used as an ingredient of mortar and concrete. Home owners frequently uses this term erroneously when he or she means concrete, as in the expression, “Our house has cement floors.” Cement is also defined as a substance, which by hardening between two surfaces to which it adheres, binds them together.
Concrete is a composite material which consists essentially of a binding medium within which are embedded particles or fragments of aggregate; in Portland cement concrete, the binder is a mixture of Portland cement and water. When set it attains hardness and strength not unlike stone.
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What’s the difference between what Cemstone delivered and the bagged mixes I can buy at a home center?
The main difference between the two is Cemstone's quality and consistency.
What if I’m not interested in doing it myself?
You can click here for a list of professional concrete contractors who are experts for residential concrete applications.
How much can I expect to pay for a new concrete driveway?
The cost can range anywhere between $4 to $10 per square foot.
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Are there different kinds of concrete?
Yes. Concrete can be made to order in terms of strength, workability, and durability. For more information call 1-800-CEMSTONE or 651-688-9292.
What if I don’t want grey concrete?
Color it! You can get an idea of the possibilities by linking to our page on architectural concrete.
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Where can I find information on residential building forms?
The interest in residential homes built with insulated concrete forms (ICF's) for above grade walls is rapidly increasing. The benefits are many: strength and durability, energy efficiency, mold resistance, noise reduction, storm protection, low maintenance and greater design flexibility. For more information, click here.
What goes underneath the concrete?
Concrete needs to sit on a stable, compacted base. Organic materials and clay should be avoided.
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What should I do when placing new concrete against existing concrete?
The existing concrete should be roughened and any grease, debris, laitance and other materials which may inhibit bond must be removed. The existing concrete is then soaked for at least 24 hours. Immediately prior to placing the fresh concrete, blow any standing water away and scrub a bonding layer of mortar to the surface. The bonding mortar should consist of cement and sand (1:3 in volume) with the consistency of heavy coffee cream. The mortar should not be allowed to dry prior to placement of the new concrete.
What kind of tools will I need to pour and finish concrete?
Cemstone Contractor Supply is the upper Midwest's premium source of Concrete and Masonry products with more than 10,000 high quality and high performing products available. We can even rent you the tools you'll need. Click here.
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What if I need concrete delivered to the back of my house, or someplace that’s located away from the driveway or street?
Cemstone features a full line of the latest Schwing pumping equipment and Theam conveyors to place concrete in hard to reach locations. We can also schedule the pump and concrete to arrive at your job so you don't have to juggle two suppliers. We call that Blue on Blue Service. For more information on our concrete placing capabilities click here.
How long does it take for concrete to set up?
Concrete under normal temperatures will set in approximately four hours.
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Is concrete affected by weather?
Yes. The rate at which concrete hardens is very much affected by temperature, moisture and wind. Wind can cause the surface to crack. Rain will significantly weaken the surface. That's why it's important to work with the right concrete mix for your
Will Cemstone finish the concrete for me?
No. But we can recommend a contractor that you can get in touch with.
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What should I do to the concrete when the placing and finishing are completed?
The concrete must be provided with moisture to complete the hydration reaction of cement.
How do I protect my new concrete?
To protect your new concrete do not drive on it for 3-4 days.
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Is there a maintenance program I should implement for my new concrete?
You should cure your concrete immediately after the final finishing has been completed. You should seal your concrete every 2-3 years. Do not allow rusting metals to set on the concrete. For information about removing stains from concrete call Cemstone Contractor Supply (651-905-1500).
What is the difference between “Sealing” concrete and “Curing” concrete?
Curing and sealing concrete are two different processes that are often misunderstood. Curing concrete is a process used to help retain moisture in the concrete to facilitate proper strength gain.
Sealing concrete is done at least 30 days after the concrete has been placed. This process provides a barrier to prevent water and other chemicals from penetrating the concrete. Sealing is critical to exterior concrete to ensure durability and resistance to freeze-thaw cycles.
The preferred method to apply these products is with a low-pressure sprayer. If that is not available, a fine-napped paint roller may be used, however it is difficult to get uniform coverage.
Cemstone recommends two methods to cure and seal concrete:
Method #1 is to cure with “ CPC Cure and Seal” immediately after final inishing is completed. Seal the concrete 30 days later with “ CPC Cure and Seal”. Apply the “CPC Cure and Seal” at a rate of about 300 square feet per gallon.
Method #2 is to cure the concrete with “ CPC WB Dissipating Cure” immediately after final finishing is completed. Seal the concrete 28 days later after the cure has gone away (an aggressive wash may be necessary) with “ CPC Siloxane”.
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