The Ann Arbor Concrete Company

For your new home construction or your residential renovation project, hiring a competitive and experienced concrete contractor in Ann Arbor is a must

What we do

WHY CONCRETE?

The Ann Arbor Concrete Company

Concrete Contractors Ann Arbor

Why should you use concrete for your next construction project? Well why should you not when it offers so many advantages?

There are infinite reasons why concrete is arguably the best and most reliable material for many construction endeavors. In a nutshell, concrete is highly favored because it is durable enough not to cause enormous expenses on maintenance and repair. Moreover, it is durable, cost-efficient, lasts for a long time, and is a sustainable material that suits both residential and commercial settings very well.

Concrete Contractors Ann Arbor

Our Services

Concrete Residential Services Ann Arbor

With over 45 years of experience, no other concrete contractor in Ann Arbor can provide you with a more solid concrete service for your home than us. Whether you are building your new dream home or making renovations and improvements in your existing home, concrete work will be essential in your residential needs.

Concrete Contractors Ann Arbor

Concrete Residential Services Ann Arbor

Concrete Contractors Ann Arbor

With over 45 years of experience, no other concrete contractor in Ann Arbor can provide you with a more solid concrete service for your home than us. Whether you are building your new dream home or making renovations and improvements in your existing home, concrete work will be essential in your residential needs.

We are your number one residential contractor for your residential concrete project. We can help you establish the foundations of your homes, make your driveways, and craft your decorative floors and patios. Imagining these activities, it may seem simple. How hard can pouring some concrete get? However, in real life, this will take a lot of preparation and expertise. Before even starting, careful planning of the processes and structures is imperative. Also, the concrete cannot be put in place if the area or the surface has not been prepared properly. Even nearing the end of the project, precision becomes crucial, more than ever. An expert finisher would be the one to ensure that this is fulfill.

The point we are driving at here is we recommend that you hire a concrete company in Ann Arbor for your residential projects that would require the use of concrete. This is very important if you want your residential project to be successful.

From the basic structures in your house like foundations and poured walls, our services are something you can count on. To help enhance the access to your house, we can also help with the construction, finishing, and design of your driveways and pathways. Aside from that, if you are adding an amenity such as a swimming pool to your house, we also offer pool deck services. For safety and aesthetics, we can also help build retaining walls. And to further enhance the beauty of your residential property, we also provide stamped and stained decorative concrete for you. Call us at 734-593-1449 if you want to know more.

Concrete Driveways Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractors

There are many homes in Ann Arbor that use dirt or gravel for their driveways. While these can do the job, they remain to be less than ideal. It can be hard to maintain them and there may be dire consequences such as damage to your vehicles. If you have encountered this problem, maybe it is time for you to consider a more sustainable option. To solve all your problems with dirt and gravel driveways, you may consider a concrete driveway which can be made with the assistance of a concrete company in your area.

Having concrete driveways in place will not be cheap, but this will be a worthy investment. What we can assure you at our company is we also offer these services at the best quality while still being reasonably priced. However, you will save a lot of stress and maintenance concerns versus still having your dirt or gravel driveway.

You would also need one of the most reliable concrete companies in Ann Arbor if your existing concrete driveway is now deteriorating with age. This is necessary if you want to ensure your own safety also. 

Moreover, the need for concrete replacement or the possibility of repair must be investigated. Call us at 734-593-1449 for more information.

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractors

Moreover, the need for concrete replacement or the possibility of repair must be investigated. Call us at 734-593-1449 for more information.

Concrete Patios Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Companies

Concrete Patios Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Companies

A patio can be a unique addition for your home. However, you cannot build this on your own. For assistance, you should seek services and assistance from a company like us in Ann Arbor, among the reliable concrete contractors you can trust.

There are many things you might want to consider when planning your patio construction. Preparation would depend on the amenities that you prefer to have in place. For example, you may want to save spaces for pools or hot tubs. Alternatively, you may want to have a big space for gatherings and games. From planning to finishing, we can help create your dream patio for you.

As an Ann Arbor-based concrete company, we can provide you with many reasons why concrete is the superior option for your patio. Unlike wood or other materials, concrete is a more durable material. Nothing compares to concrete when it comes to toughness and weatherability. It has great resistance against rain, wind, fire, and snow.

Another great advantage of using concrete is that it is very low maintenance. When compared to wood, concrete does not need protection against decomposition or termites. In terms of convenience and aesthetics, concrete is a flexible material since it can be shaped into anything. Call us at 734-593-1449 for your patio needs.

Call us today for your free estimate

Concrete Pool and Surroundings Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractors

Not all pools are created equal. Many people may think that there is only one kind of swimming, but when it comes to material and construction, there are three. These are concrete, vinyl liner, and fiberglass. Concrete is among the most reliable materials for pools.

To orient you with concrete pools, it is important to differentiate it from cement. Cement is only a part of concrete. On the other hand, concrete is composed of cement, sand, and stone or gravel mixed with water. To make a pool shell, gunite or shotcrete is sprayed. These processes are to be done by your chosen professional concrete company in Ann Arbor.

A concrete pool has many advantages. Mainly it offers extreme benefits in terms of appearance and aesthetics. You can customize concrete pools based on your preference. Hence you can have a pool of any shape and any feature. Moreover, because concrete is a hard material, concrete pools are also very durable in turn. In terms of the how the pool looks, concrete give that classic swimming look that you might have in mind.

A concrete contractor in Ann Arbor like us can finish your pool in just a matter of three to six months. Call us at 734-593-1449.

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractors

A concrete contractor in Ann Arbor like us can finish your pool in just a matter of three to six months. Call us at 734-593-1449.

Concrete Sidewalks and Walkways Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Company

Concrete Sidewalks and Walkways Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Company

The sidewalks and walkways in your property will be among the first things your guests would see. They can be designed and constructed for you by your trusted Ann Arbor based concrete company. Sidewalks need to be functional and safe, while aesthetics is a secondary but not an unimportant consideration.

You have many options on how you can make your walkway look the best it can. There is no rule that limits walkways in their simple, dull, and straight style and their usual gray concrete color. You can have a walkway that matches and complements the beauty of your entire house. You can also change the color so that it can look better beside your landscaping. We are also your top choice for stamped concrete in Ann Arbor if you want a more organic look stone stamped look. This would give the surface of your walkway an imprint or a texture.

Depending on your preferences, many designs for sidewalks and walkways are available. At our company, you choose various styles from contemporary, ancient, or old world, rustic, tropical, or traditional themes. Layouts, shapes, colors, and textures can be modified to achieve these looks.

There are also many options to color concrete walkways. This includes the use of paint, stains, and dyes. Call us at 734-593-1449 for more details.

Concrete Flooring Ann Arbor

Concrete Companies Ann Arbor

Concrete flooring is one of the best choices you have among all flooring options. There are more flexible, durable, and customizable when compared with other materials for flooring options, including linoleum, wood, tile, stone, marble, or carpet. The possible designs and styles that can be made with it are infinite. You can modify the colors, textures, surfaces, patterns, and finishing. Plus, it does not take a lot to maintain concrete flooring. If you have a property in Ann Arbor, a concrete contractor can help you with your concrete flooring.

The benefits of having concrete flooring has far outweigh any disadvantage anyone may say. Among its advantages is its flexibility when it comes to your budget. Moreover, as stated earlier, the opportunities to decorate concrete flooring are endless. Whether you prefer something simple or something more intricate, anything is possible and doable. Moreover, it is very low maintenance. Another great thing about concrete is it can last for decades, at least 50 years to be precise, and you can take our word for it. To add, it is also resistant to moisture and stains can easily avoided when it is properly sealed.

If you need help with your concrete flooring in your property in Ann Arbor, a concrete company like us will have you covered. Call us at 734-593-1449.

Concrete Companies Ann Arbor

If you need help with your concrete flooring in your property in Ann Arbor, a concrete company like us will have you covered. Call us at 734-593-1449.

Call us today for your free estimate

Concrete Repair and Resurfacing Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Companies

Concrete Repair and Resurfacing Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Companies

Knowing how durable concrete is, under perfect conditions, your concrete driveway should last as long as your home. Therefore, it is designed to last decades. However, certain factors and mishaps can happen, which can affect the quality of the concrete in your home. You may notice some cracking, scaling, changes in color, or unevenness. In such cases you may need to seek concrete repairs in Ann Arbor.

Multiple factors can affect the quality and integrity of your concrete driveway. Among these factors is when the subgrade is not properly compacted. Moreover, using inadequate concrete mix can result into these detrimental effects. Also, unpredictable events like adverse weather conditions can weaken the concrete. Poor placement techniques can also affect your concrete.

Instead of removing all the concrete in place in your driveway, you can cut some costs by simply availing of concrete repairs. However, the structure must still be assessed if it can handle the activities. It will be best to have someone from a licensed concrete company near you to do these evaluations for you, so that proper recommendations can also be given.

Decisions on repairing, resurfacing, or replacing the concrete on your driveway would depend on the size of the defect and the extent of the damage. Call us at 734-593-1449 to know more.

Stamped Concrete Ann Arbor

Concrete Contractors Ann Arbor

If you want to be more creative in the styling of your driveways, walkways, patios, and pool decks, you may want to consider having your concrete stamped. The other stylish flooring options we are familiar with are made with materials like tiles, brick, or wood. However, your desired aesthetics can be achieved using concrete while at the same time benefitting from the practical advantages of concrete as a material. If you need stamped concrete in Ann Arbor, you came to the right place!

In terms of advantages, concrete is an inexpensive material. Moreover, it is durable and does not require any tedious maintenance. Moreover, the styles, colors, and designs that can be made are numerous. There are also safety advantages for it because it can produce a flat, even surface.

To make sure that the structure of the stamped concrete will be stable, reinforcements are placed within. Usually, steel bars or wired mesh can be used. Sometimes, this is not necessary for small areas. However, this cannot be optional for those that are expected to bear weight, like large decks and driveways. In addition, it makes the structure safer and more stable in case of erosion.

For stamped concrete, companies in Ann Arbor can give you excellent professional services. Call us at 734-593-1449.

Concrete Contractors Ann Arbor

For stamped concrete, companies in Ann Arbor can give you excellent professional services. Call us at 734-593-1449.

Concrete Staining Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractor

Concrete Staining Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractor

If you want to enhance the looks of your property and add a subtle pop of color around, it may be time to consider having your floor stained. This is a service which professional concrete contractors near you can provide.

There are many advantages that come with having your concrete stained. First, since staining mainly adds color, staining can do a lot in enhancing the aesthetic appearance of your floor. There are many shades and colors you can choose from, such as earth tones, neutral shades, pastel hues, and deeper colors. An Ann Arbor-based concrete contractor who has experienced professionals can even help you create visual effects for your staining project. These can include swirls, marbling patterns, stencils, or waves.

Another benefit of having you floor stained is that it is not an expensive thing to do. This is because you are basically just working with what you already have. This is very economical compared to adding hardwood flooring, carpeting, or lamination. Therefore, it will be a bang for your buck.

Staining is also available in combination with other substances for floor finishing like polishing and coatings. Contact your local Ann Arbor concrete company for more information about concrete staining. Call us at 734-593-1449.

Call us today for your free estimate

Concrete Cutting and Polishing Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractor

Concrete cutting and polishing employ different techniques and methods. Either way, both are essential services that are offered by your trusted local Ann Arbor concrete company.

Concrete cutting refers to the process that involves careful and precise sawing, drilling, and removal of concrete. This is something that can only be performed by trained professionals because it involves the use of special saws. In this process, the concrete and asphalt that needs to be removed is sawn off with finesse and accuracy. In cutting, mistakes are irreversible. Techniques are important in making sure that the result will have a smooth and even finish.

On the other hand, polishing concrete is a process that can be likened to sanding wood. Special machinery is used in this process. Some of the equipment have abrasives that have diamond segments. This can grind the surface of the concrete until it is smooth and shiny. At the start of the process, coarser grit is used, and as the process progresses, finer grit can be used to further promote smoothness and shininess of the concrete surface. If done well, the surface of the concrete will have a glossy finish, like that of a mirror. 

Call us at 734-593-1449 if you need an Ann Arbor concrete contractor to assist you.

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractor

Call us at 734-593-1449 if you need an Ann Arbor concrete contractor to assist you.

Concrete Pathways Ann Arbor

An outdoor walkway or pathway is not only a useful addition to your house or property. It can also add considerable beauty.

Concrete Contractor Ann Arbor

Concrete Pathways Ann Arbor

Concrete Contractor Ann Arbor

An outdoor walkway or pathway is not only a useful addition to your house or property. It can also add considerable beauty.

If you re not experienced at handling concrete, you can consult a concrete company in your area to discuss your options about setting up a concrete pathway.

You can personalize your pathway to fit your needs and preferences. If you already have one at home but it is all gray and dull, worry not! It is possible to work with what you already have and just make it more decorative and attractive.

You have many design options for a concrete pathway. For a simple and formal-looking appearance, you can have a straight path made. This is a no-frills format which is usually placed at the path that leads straight to the door. Alternatively, you can choose to have a curved path made. This is a more informal take, but it has a more artistic advantage.

Colored concrete can also make your concrete pathway more interesting and attractive. This is achieved by using staining or dyes. Stamping is also another great way to add character to your walkways.

Consult a concrete contractor in Ann Arbor today! Call us at 734-593-1449

Concrete house and Car Port Slabs Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete company

If you want a studier ground beneath you, you may want to consider having concrete slab floors for you house and carports. These are services that are readily available to you from your trusted local concrete company in Ann Arbor.

In your house, concrete slab floors have many advantages to your comfort and lifestyle. They can also have insulation below and at the edges. Concrete house slabs have the advantage of providing better and more reliable thermal comfort. Concrete can store thermal energy, making it a great advantage for heating purposes in the winter. Moreover, concrete house slabs have a long lifespan.

For carports, the durability of concrete remains to be one of the major advantages. In case that repairs, or reinforcements are needed, precision should be employed to make sure that the concrete is stable. Any weakened areas with voids can compromise the integrity of the entire structure.

In general, another factor which contributes to the benefits of concrete slabs is termite resistance. While this is a major problem for wood, concrete structures do not run the risk of this type of deterioration.

Having concrete slabs now is not an option, it is a must. Contact your trusted concrete contractor in Ann Arbor at 734-593-1449.

Ann Arbor Concrete company

Having concrete slabs now is not an option, it is a must. Contact your trusted concrete contractor in Ann Arbor at 734-593-1449.

Call us today for your free estimate

Concrete Retaining Walls Ann Arbor

Concrete Companies Ann Arbor

Concrete Retaining Walls Ann Arbor

Concrete Companies Ann Arbor

Retaining walls are a functional and safety feature for your properties. However, this does not mean that they cannot be appropriately designed to suit the aesthetics of your homes, as well as your needs. A concrete company in your area can help you come up with design solutions for your retaining wall.

The primary function of retaining walls is they provide lateral support at the sides of slopes of soil that are vertically oriented. Without retaining walls, these soil slopes can simply collapse due to the fall of gravity. Because of the primary purpose, all retaining walls must be stable enough. Hence, a multitude of construction techniques are employed in the construction of retaining walls. Materials like steel, wood, or reinforced soil are often used in combination as well.

Many factors can influence the design and type of retaining wall that you will have. These will include your cost considerations, the height needed, specific challenges at your site, as well as soil composition and ground water characteristics. Skills of laborers and quality of materials used can also affect outcomes.

There are also many design options for your retaining wall, like additional colors and textures. Contact a concrete contractor in Ann Arbor at 734-593-1449.

Concrete Foundations Ann Arbor

Concrete Contractor Ann Arbor

Your foundation is one of the most important things in your home. It is the lower portion of the building structure which serves as its support. Foundations are responsible for transferring the gravity load of the building to the ground. Moreover, it also anchors the entire structure against natural occurrences that can compromise the stability of the building. Therefore, the best materials should only be used. Your trusted concrete company near you would definitely recommend a concrete foundation versus any other type of foundation.

In general, there are three kinds of concrete foundations commonly used. First is the traditional T-shaped foundation. This is common in places where the ground freezes, especially in the winter. This utilizes footing, the walls are made and poured. After which, the slab is placed.

Another good option for concrete foundations is the slab on grade foundation. This is more common in places where the ground does not freeze. Here, the edges of the slab on grade are typically thicker when compared to the interior of the slab. This also makes use of monolithic techniques, where all is poured at once. The last type, frost protected would only work with a heated structure.

Consult a concrete contractor in Ann Arbor for your concrete foundation needs. Call 734-593-1449

Concrete Contractor Ann Arbor

Consult a concrete contractor in Ann Arbor for your concrete foundation needs. Call 734-593-1449

Concrete Fire Pits Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractors

Concrete Fire Pits Ann Arbor

Ann Arbor Concrete Contractors

A small gathering around a fire can make weekend evenings even greater for you. A fire pit can provide a safe and open structure for a small group of people who want to gather around. Among the many types of fire pits, concrete is one of the best options. This can be guaranteed to you by all the concrete companies in Ann Arbor that you will ask.

Concrete is a great choice for fire pits because it is a fire retardant. It will not allow the flames to spread further than the limits of the pit. This is grate for safety purposes. Another great advantage of using concrete is that it is very easy to work with. It can be made into the shape and size that you prefer. Moreover, for those who are on a tight budget, concrete is a good option because it is relatively inexpensive.

Many people have prejudices on concrete because they are naturally plain. However, there are many options to style and beautify your concrete fire pit. You may opt for stains or even paint for an added pop of color. Concrete fire pits also have the benefits of being low maintenance.

Ask an Ann Arbor-based concrete contactor about your fire pit needs! Call 734-593-1449

The same thing probably comes to mind when we say cement and concrete, but these things are different. Cement is one the components of concrete. It is composed of ground stuff from lime and clay, which results in a powdery consistency. Concrete is produced when cement is mixed with other materials like sand, aggregates like stone or gravel, and water. A reaction happens between water and cement. The reaction and process will result in the formation of a paste which holds all the other components together. The result is the hard rock-like mass which is what we know as concrete.

Yes, there is more than one kind of concrete. Modifications in the amount and proportions of the components of concrete can be made to produce concrete with varying characteristics. Depending on the proportions, concrete types can differ in terms of workability, hardness, strength, and durability. There are also special kinds of concrete which are made to be more environment friendly. An example is a concrete that is pervious to water to allow drainage of it into the subsoil. At the end of the day, the secret to producing a strong and durable concrete relies on the precise proportions of ingredients and their proper mixing.

You probably do. Working with concrete is not as simple as it looks. Without proper knowledge on the basics of concrete as well as the techniques of handling it, many mistakes can happen. Projects that involve concrete would necessitate the skills with basic tools like saws, chalk lines, hammers, and meters, as well as of more specialized tool used to work with concrete. Moreover, other activities that are necessary for many concrete projects like subgrade preparation and excavation are not minor things that can be accomplished by people without experience and proper equipment. Hence, you most likely need a concrete contractor.

You may think that rainwater may be good for the concrete since water itself is an ingredient of concrete. Water in proper amounts and mixing hydrates the concrete and allows it to gain strength. However, water from pouring rain can be damaging for your concrete. The rain may affect the strength of the concrete that is yet to form. Therefore, there is more risk of scaling, dusting, and cracking in the future. It will be advisable to postpone pouring concrete for a large project if you are anticipating rain. Your contractor will be ready to cover the area with a tarp just in case.

Yes, concrete can be painted. It is possible to add a distinct pop of color to your concrete structures by using paint. Among the best choice for painting concrete is masonry paint, which is also known as elastomeric paint. It has special components like binders which contract and expand with concrete. Ideally, masonry paint should be used and applied with a high-capacity roller or a texture roller. Compared to exterior paint, masonry paint can offer be more tinted and with a much thicker consistency. It may not be advisable to use sprayers for masonry paint since in can clog the air sprays with its particles of special components.

There may be multiple reasons why concrete cracks. Most of the causes of the cracking of concrete can be attributed to missteps when the structure was being constructed. For example, having too much water in the concrete mix can compromise the strength of concrete. The primary reason why concrete cracks can be attributed to shrinking, which is part of the drying process. However, if there is excess water in the mixture, the shrinkage will be greater. The pulling forces of the shrinkage can cause the pulling apart of the concrete quality. Hence the amount of water in the mix plays a very important role.

Do not drive your vehicle on your driveway until about 10 days after pouring. Even if the concrete may seem hard right after pouring, it will remain to be vulnerable to changes and damages for the first four weeks after. You should also not walk on it during the first 24 hours after. Even pets should be kept away during this period. One week after the pouring, concrete typically already has 90% of its strength. However, if you have a heavier vehicle or if you are planning to park on your driveway, it is better to wait for at least 30 days.

Concrete sealer or sealant is a substance composed of any penetrating resin, polyurethane, or epoxy. There are many types of sealants available on the market. Because it is very inexpensive, acrylic sealants are the most popular choice among property owners. If you want to prevent deterioration and degradation of your concrete floor, it will be a wise choice to seal your floor. It is advisable to do this once every 2-5 years. Periodic sealing will help protect your concrete floors from water damage, wear and tear, and chemical spills. Sealing is not labor intensive, nor is it costly, but the benefits are immense.

Yes, the weather can affect the concrete. Most of the time, it is the temperature that has the most intense effects on concrete. At high temperatures, the rate of heating and the type and stability of aggregate can affect the behavior of the concrete. There are also several challenges that can be faced by concrete in cold weather. At freezing temperature points, loss of heat in the time between heating and pouring can be detrimental to the structure. If the concrete freezes before it has properly hardened, it can lose much of its expected strength. This damage will be irreversible.

Asphalt may be cheaper when installed but investing on concrete may save you more money and even stress in the long run. Compared to concrete, asphalt would need more maintenance. It needs to be sealed a few months after it was installed, then every few years thereafter. While asphalt may be simpler and easier to repair, it typically needs more frequent repair than concrete. This is because asphalt can degrade faster due to its softer consistency. For long-term considerations, concrete driveways can last about 10 times as long as asphalt driveways. Concrete ones can endure 30-40 years compared to 20-30 years for asphalt.

The composition and proportions of the ingredients in the concrete mix can make the biggest difference on how long your concrete structure will last. In general, the most recommended mix is the four-two-one mix. This is a proportion of four parts crushed rock, two parts sand, and one part for cement, for a total of seven parts. While this four-two-one mix is highly recommended, it will not be the best for all situations. To enhance compressive strength, we can add more rock to make a five-two-one-and-a-half mix. If you need more flexibility, more sand and less rock is better, such as a two-four-one mix.

From production to the end of its life in service, there are several points in the life cycle of concrete where recycling can take place. Manufacturing concrete produces waste materials and byproducts like furnace slag or ash. These seemingly useless materials can be combined with aggregates in the concrete mix. Therefore, there is less demand for the production and mining for more raw materials. When a concrete structure is demolished, the disposed concrete can be recycled for other construction jobs. They can be used for gravel, pavements, and as aggregates in any concrete project like walkways, driveways, and other outdoor surfaces.

The value of testing concrete when it is still fresh and while the placement is still ongoing has so much long-term benefits. This allows the contractor to recognize any problems early, and thereby, intervene as appropriate. Some of the possible problems that may be obvious at this point are low strength and cracking. Some of the specific concrete tests like slump test and air content measurement can guide the investigation so that the solutions can be properly directed. A good concrete company will be keen on these details. While it may seem tedious, these steps are necessary to ensure the integrity of your structure.

The common stains seen on concrete surfaces especially driveways are those from oil and grease. There are many strategies to remove these stains. Many commercial products can be purchased from hardware stores at cheap prices. One is sodium triphosphate. This is applied on the stained area and left on for half an hour. After, it should be brushed with a stiff brush and hot water. Then, clean water should be used for rinsing. Other techniques include the use of a detergent which is scrubbed on the concrete ground with a stiff brush. In any of the methods, repetition may be necessary to complete the removal.

Among all the materials being used in construction, concrete is among the most durable. However, there are still maintenance strategies that you can do to help your concrete structure stay in good condition for a longer time. If there are stains of dirt on the surface, these can be addressed by using powerwashers. For prevention, using a sealant is a simple solution. For cracks or chips in the concrete, it is best to contact your contractor for early repair before anything gets worse. If there appears o be cracks on the edges, it will also be better to call you contractor.

Gray may be the “default” and natural color of concrete, but there are still many ways to modify it. However, concrete is normally gray because the cement, which makes up a lot of it is naturally gray. Now why is cement gray? The main reason relies on the origins and manufacturing of cement itself. Among the main components of cement is iron ore. This has a deep black color. When combined with the lighter colored ingredients that make up cement, gray color is the result. If you do not like this color, there are many ways to change the color of concrete, either by staining, using dyes, or adding paint.

No, the drying process is not the main mechanism that strengthens the concrete. The role of water in concrete is mainly in facilitating the chemical reaction that takes place when cement mixes with it. This process is called hydration. Hydration is the mechanism responsible for the formation of compounds and crystal structures within the mixture, trapping and interlocking the rock, gravel, and sand together. Concrete structures gain their top strength during the first month from placement because this is the amount of time where majority of the strengthening reaction happens. When water has completely dried out years later, the concrete stops gaining strength.