Concrete Driveway and Patio Questions, Answered

What people ask us

Who actually pours the concrete if I use Macmillaneducacioneverywhere Concrete?

Independent local providers do all of the work. Macmillaneducacioneverywhere Concrete is a referral service, not a contractor. We refer, they pour. You tell us about your project, and we pass it to a provider in our network. The provider sets the quote, the schedule and the materials. Any agreement about the job is between you and that provider.

Can I pour a concrete driveway or patio myself?

A lot of people think it is just mixing and spreading. In practice, concrete sets on its own clock. Grading, forms, reinforcement and finishing all have to line up. A small slab is possible for a handy person. A full driveway is heavy, fast work, and mistakes are hard to undo. Many homeowners compare a DIY plan with a provider quote first.

How long does a new concrete driveway take?

Timing varies by size, access and weather. Prep and forming often take longer than the pour itself. Then the slab needs time to cure before heavy use. Many providers ask you to keep cars off for about a week, but ask yours. Cold snaps and rain can shift the schedule, so build in some flexibility.

Does cold weather in our area stop concrete work?

A lot of people think winter ends all pouring. In practice, it depends on the forecast and the provider's methods. Freeze-thaw cycles are tough on fresh concrete, so many providers wait for milder stretches or use cold-weather techniques. Ask each provider how they protect a new slab and what air-temperature limits they follow.

Is stamped concrete slippery or unsafe?

Not by default. Safety depends on the finish and sealer. Some sealers get slick when wet, especially on patios and walkways. Ask a provider about slip-resistant additives or texture, and how the surface handles ice and rain. A good provider will explain the trade-offs in plain terms.

Do you handle repairs to cracked concrete?

No. Macmillaneducacioneverywhere Concrete focuses on new concrete driveway and patio projects. If you have a failing foundation or an old slab that needs fixing, a local repair specialist is a better fit. For a full replacement, a provider can quote it as a new project.

How do I choose between providers?

Compare, then decide. Collect more than one written estimate. Check that each lists the slab thickness, base prep, reinforcement, finish and cleanup. Ask about drainage, since older homes with stone or block foundations need water directed away. Look at scope, not just price. No pressure, no obligation.

What does a concrete project usually cost?

Typical U.S. ranges vary a lot by size, thickness, finish and site access. Plain slabs cost less per square foot than stamped or colored work, and tear-out of an old surface adds to the total. Prices also shift by region. Treat any range as a rough guide, and get a written quote that spells out exactly what is included.