FAQs

The Process

The concrete arrives on site containing your chosen aggregate or pebble blend. McIntosh Concrete will lay & place the concrete and then spray with a surface retarder which slows the curing process down.  When the concrete is sufficiently hard, a thin film of concrete on top is “washed off” to reveal or “expose” the aggregate or pebble. At a later date, the surface will then be acid washed and possibly sealed, depending on preference and budget.

How soon before I can walk or drive on my concrete?

We recommend you wait for 24hrs before walking on your newly poured concrete.  Driving is a different story, obviously, the weight of the vehicle can cause damage if driven on too soon.  The team will advise whats recommended but as a rule of thumb we recommend 7 days before driving on your driveway.

Concrete Cracks

When installed properly, concrete is one of the most durable and long lasting products you can use around your home. Concrete shrinks when it dries – so construction cuts are made at around 4m spacings soon after placing to provide a point of weakness in the slab, and control where the cracks occur.

It is important that concrete contractors follow well-established guidelines.  There are several reasons why your concrete may crack, the team at McIntosh Concrete will recommend ways of preventing the concrete from cracking

Why do you acid concrete after it has been layed?

Acid etches or eats away any  white milky stains that are left on the newly exposed aggregate concrete

Also, the color of the concrete surface should darken and be consistent.

Exposed aggregate that was recently poured and not been sealed is the type of concrete surface that is most commonly acid washed

Why Seal Concrete?

Sealing prevents water from penetrating concrete. Water erosion causes concrete to crack. Sealing also keeps out salt, chemicals, dirt, and plant growth. In the case of Exposed Aggregate Concrete, sealing with a top-coating sealer helps prevent the stones from loosening by forming a barrier between the aggregate and the elements. Therefore sealing will extend the life and new appearance of any type of concrete.

What is the general maintenance?

Within the first week, it is recommended that the concrete is kept moist, especially prior to concrete cutting, this will help to prevent and minimise cracks in the concrete appearing.