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One of the most rewarding experiences in our profession is being able to look at a freshly poured and smoothly finished piece of concrete. No matter if we just completed a driveway, a patio, or a walkway, this shiny gray surface is a badge of honor when it means a project accomplished. Our team at Bill’s Custom Concrete is also highly skilled in retaining walls repair and installation, and other projects, to further enhance and protect your outdoor spaces. Unfortunately, this moment is bittersweet for our clients. They want to enjoy their outdoor space, but dread damaging it with one careless step.

We can see why you would want to test it with your feet to see if it will support your weight yet, but right now, your most important tool is time. How soon can you walk on concrete? Concrete does not work exactly like paint does in a drying sense. Some other materials may actually need time to dry, but when concrete curing takes place, a chemical reaction builds strength. Walking on it can leave dents.

The Critical First 24 to 48 hours

The first two days after you pour concrete are when it is most delicate. While in this setup stage, your concrete remains in a soft state, making it susceptible to pressure. Even if your concrete feels dry to the touch or if it is lighter in color, chances are it is still shifting and setting underneath.

It is highly recommended to keep all people, animals, and items away from the concrete for a period of no less than 24 to 48 hours. Also, if you have any pets such as dogs and cats, make sure they do not go outside without being harnessed because they can damage the surface with their claws. Additionally, if you have a busy neighborhood, consideration should be given to setting up caution tape barriers to prevent delivery people, for example, from entering your property.

When is Light Foot Traffic Acceptable?

Once you have gotten through this two-day mark, you can see a lessening of this anxiety, but do not think you are out of the woods yet. While this concrete is durable enough to withstand damage from a stray leaf or a rainstorm, it is not yet at full strength, so avoid the urge to walk on concrete too soon.

Generally, a wait time of three to seven days before allowing light foot traffic is recommended. Although you can walk on this concrete if you need to, it is recommended that you not twist your feet or jog on this surface during this time. While this time frame is primarily for walking on concrete safely, you are not to drag your patio furniture, roll your heavy trash bins, or ride your bicycles on this surface because this concrete is “green” and can scratch or chip easily.

Environmental Factors That Change the Timeline

The three to seven-day rule is a guideline, but your project may have a different time span depending on a variety of environmental elements. The main variable we are dealing with is the weather. For instance, if it is hot and dry, you will see your concrete drying faster because of evaporation. On the other hand, if it is cold, you will end up waiting a little bit longer before taking your first step.

The composition of the mix will also influence the timeline. Taking into consideration a mix with accelerators, it will set faster compared to a normal mix. However, another factor to put into consideration is the thickness of the slab. A thick driveway to support heavy machinery will take longer to achieve sufficient strength compared to a thinner sidewalk.

Speak with Your Concrete Experts for Customized Guidance

As you can see, there are a lot of variables at work in this process, from humidity to aggregate, so it is always advisable to check with us personally before using your new surface. Of course, we know exactly what went into your project and exactly what your local weather forecast will be.

Waiting a few extra days may not be very convenient, but it is a small price to pay for a surface which can last for decades. Waiting a few extra days to allow traffic on the concrete can make all of the difference in making your new surface one which remains smooth, strong, and lacks cracks. Should you ever have doubts in your mind regarding whether you can walk upon it or not, do not hesitate to give us a call! 

Observing the process of wet concrete turning into a solid is, in fact, a waiting game that calls for patience and accuracy. Oftentimes, clients are observed in a rush to begin construction work, such as building walls or parking vehicles over a newly laid concrete surface. However, this can result in a weak construction in the future due to a lack of understanding of when to put load on the concrete. If you’re unsure about timelines or best practices, consulting with concrete suppliers in Oklahoma City such as Bill’s Custom Concrete can provide valuable local expertise! 

Initial Set vs. Final Set

The process from liquid mix to solid form takes place in steps. The first setting begins when the concrete starts becoming less plastic or stiffens. Such a stage takes a matter of hours after mixing, depending on the prevailing atmospheric conditions. At this point, you would not want to walk on it or put any other thing on top of it because you would end up creating permanent impressions. When can loads be placed on a concrete structure? It’s crucial to remember that patience during these early hours sets the stage for long-term strength.

The final set will come later, anywhere from four to ten hours after pouring. Once the final set is attained, the concrete will be hard enough to withstand its own weight and light foot traffic without leaving imprints. But don’t be fooled by this hardness. Concrete is ready to withstand heavy machinery, automobiles, and construction traffic not when it is hard to the touch, because the chemical reactions involved in making it strong have barely begun.

The Critical 28-Day Period for Curing

When it comes to construction, the magic number is always 28 days. Concrete doesn’t actually “dry,” it “cures.” And this takes a chemical reaction, where all of the strength is achieved in this first month.

Concrete takes seven days to attain approximately 70 percent capacity strength. At this stage, light vehicles/machines may be safely placed, but heavy static load-bearing structures can pose a danger. It is essential to evaluate the potential load on the structure during this period to avoid compromising the integrity of the concrete. It is widely assumed that concrete attains complete design strength at the end of 28 days. At this stage, engineers can confidently load the structure with its maximum load.

Factors Affecting the Timeline

Although the standard curing time in the industry is 28 days, in most cases, this is affected by varying circumstances. One such factor where a massive impact can be noted is in relation to temperatures. When it is hot, evaporation of water takes place quickly; this can be a problem if it is not kept saturated because hydration will cease before it is supposed to.

The level of humidity is another factor which greatly matters in this case. A humid atmosphere assists in increasing the strength of concrete, but a dry atmosphere with winds can cause a crack in the concrete surface. Apart from this, the mix designs have different effects on curing time. While some mix designs have accelerators to fast-track curing, others have retarders.

Trust Your Concrete Contractors

Every pour is different. While some guidelines are good, no substitute exists for experience in making these decisions. We are attuned to local weather, soils, and the exact chemical composition of your mix delivered on our projects. Additionally, strength tests can be performed before approving heavy loads.

Disregarding expert advice when it comes to accelerating construction projects can be a poor choice. Loading your structure too early can cause you to end up with micro-cracking, which may weaken your steel reinforcement, making it collapse in the future. It’s especially important to avoid placing a concentrated load on a concrete slab before the concrete has reached its full strength, as this can lead to structural damage that may go unnoticed until much later.

Providing Long-Term Durability

Waiting out the curing time is, without a doubt, the very best investment you can make in your building’s future. By taking the time to understand and follow the rules of initial set versus full strength, and taking into consideration the 28-day rule, you will have a structure that will last a lifetime. Prior to subjecting a new pour of concrete to heavy loads, it’s always wise to check with the pros at Bill’s Custom Concrete!

Fresh concrete is surprisingly strong-appearing, and it’s not uncommon for it to seem able to bear traffic just a few hours after application, but this is often not the case. Allowing traffic on concrete prematurely can easily lead to cracking and other problems that can jeopardize its longevity. As concrete experts, we can guide you on ways of determining the answer to ‘when can you drive on new concrete?’. So, stick with Bill’s Custom Concrete!

Understanding the Curing Process

Curing is a mechanism through which concrete achieves strength as a result of a chemical reaction between cement and water. This is not just about waiting for the surface of the concrete to dry, but rather waiting for it to attain its final strength. During this period, concrete becomes more resistant to pressures and weight because it becomes hard.

The curing time starts as soon as it is applied and can continue for a number of weeks, but the time frame until it is safe enough for vehicles is significantly sooner than that. Knowing how long before driving on concrete helps you avoid costly errors.

Factors that Influence Curing Time

There are some variables that influence concrete’s time required for full strength. All these we take into consideration while advising our clients, whether it’s for a driveway or even retaining walls in OKC.

Weather Conditions

Temperature is an important curing factor that contributes to curing rate. Hot weather helps hasten the chemical process of concrete strengthening, while low temperatures slow down this process significantly. If temperatures go below 50°F, they can bring about a halt or slowdown of this curing process. High humidity is a curing factor that can slow down this process by thwarting the rate of water evaporation.

Mix Composition

All concrete is not equal. Cement and water content, aggregate types, as well as any mix additives, all create differences in concrete cure time for driveway projects. Cement content is directly proportional to concrete strength development, and some mix additives can slow down or hasten this development, depending on their intended applications.

Thickness and Load Specifications

Whereas a typical residential driveway has a thickness of 4-6 inches and cures at a different rate than a commercial-grade parking lot intended for heavier applications, thicker applications typically take longer to cure, though they may still reach drivable surface strength on a comparable timeline.

General Timeline for Driving on Concrete

Though each project has its own nuances, we generally offer these guidelines for residential driveways and other surfaces.

Foot Traffic

It is likely that you can walk on concrete after 24 to 48 hours without doing any damage. You can tell that concrete is ready when it is firm and does not make impressions when walked on.

Passenger Vehicles

In regard to ordinary passenger vehicles and light trucks, we would advise waiting at least seven days before you drive on concrete. By this time, it is likely that the concrete has reached about 70% of its final strength, sufficient for road contact without damaging or cracking its surface.

Heavy Vehicles

If you have heavy vehicles that require parking on this concrete, you have to wait for a period of 28 days before doing so. By then, your concrete will be strong enough and won’t be affected by these heavy vehicles.

Why Personalized Advice is so Important

These timetables are only guidelines, and each actual installation is different. All projects are evaluated for project conditions before any suggestions can be made. Pouring a driveway project during a cold snap in November is going to have a different timeline than one installed in July, for instance, or a specialized mix as compared to regular concrete mix.

If you are working with experienced concrete professionals like Bill’s Custom Concrete, we can monitor the weather, tailor mix design based on optimal conditions, and offer specialized advice based on your project requirement. Even curing or managing moisture and temperature can be done through methods that heavily influence the end result.

Patience Pays Off

Allowing adequate time before traveling on concrete is more than a necessary step – it is a monetary investment that pays dividends down the road, such as preventing your concrete from cracking and wearing down from cars traveling on it.

Although it may be tempting to get out and enjoy your new driveway as soon as possible, remember that concrete is still strengthening months after the pour. Waiting these few days before actually getting to enjoy your driveway can save repairs and resurfacing down the road. If you have any questions about exactly when this is necessary for your project, we’re always available to help! 

Vinyl flooring is one of the most sought-after flooring solutions for homes that have concrete floors. Vinyl flooring can be made from a number of materials and can be designed as hardwood, stone, and many other materials, and it is very affordable compared to other flooring materials available on the market today. But a common question that we are asked on a regular basis is…do I need underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete? 

In brief, we answer “Yes” and explain why below. As concrete specialists, we have seen firsthand just how essential a role underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete can play when it comes to flooring installation.

Among other considerations, underlayment is essential because it protects your flooring from moisture, and this is one of its most essential tasks that most people may not be aware of. 

From underlayment on concrete to sidewalk repair cost, Bill’s Custom Concrete is your place for concrete-related information. So, let’s get started! 

What is Underlayment?

Underlayment is a thin layer of material that is placed between your subfloor and installed flooring. You can think of this as a cushion that helps deal with problems such as moisture, uneven flooring, and temperature changes. Some of these materials may include foam, rubber, and cork, all of which have varied advantages based on your preferences.

Although some of these vinyl flooring products have underlayment attached, many of them don’t. That is when you have to consider whether or not you’re going to lay down your own underlayment.

Underlayment on Concrete and Its Importance

Although concrete may appear as a perfect flooring material for vinyl products, it has its flaws that may be remedied by underlayment.

Establishing a Moisture Barrier

It is porous, meaning that it can absorb and then evaporate water. Even if you have a house that is climatically controlled, your concrete foundations can still migrate moisture vapor into the air, and this can migrate into your vinyl flooring, causing warping, growth of molds, or failure of adhesives.

Moisture-blocking underlayments lay down a barrier that protects your flooring from dryness and damage. Moisture-resistant underlayments are always preferred for concrete flooring projects, especially when these projects involve basements or first floor levels. If you are searching for the best underlayment for vinyl flooring on concrete, focus on options with superior moisture resistance.

Smoothing Out Uneven Surfaces

Since concrete floors never end up as smooth as other floor materials, small cracks and pocks on these floors can be expected, and these flaws can be transmitted to a vinyl floor installation if not covered.

Underlayment is used as a leveling layer, reducing small irregularities and providing a more even surface for your vinyl or tile flooring installation. By doing this, it gives you a more professional and longer-lasting result.

Adding Comfort and Insulation

Cement is hard and cold, and this is not exactly desirable for comfort and energy efficiency. Walking on exposed vinyl flooring on concrete is quite abrasive on the feet, especially during winter.

Underlayment installation brings a cushioned effect, making it more comfortable stepping on and standing on these floors. It is also a great insulator, keeping that space warm, thereby reducing heating bills. Those who ask for the best underlayment for vinyl plank flooring on concrete often prioritize both insulation and comfort.

Removing Noise

Hard surfaces such as concrete or vinyl flooring have poor sound absorption characteristics. Walking, falling items, and other daily activities can cause echoes and noise problems.

Underlayments help reduce noise, making your house quieter than it would be otherwise. You can be most assured of this feature if you live in a multi-story house or apartment.

Should You Skip Underlayment?

There are times when underlayment may not be required at all. If your vinyl floor comes equipped with built-in underlayment and your concrete floor is smooth, dry, and protected, then you can consider going without the underlayment, but we still advise that you contact a professional about this matter. Adding underlayment initially may seem expensive, but replacing flooring that has been damaged is more costly than you think.

Setting Your Floors Up for Success

It is possible to lay vinyl flooring on concrete without underlayment, but it is not the most optimal option. Underlayment helps protect against moisture, ensures a flat surface, increases comfort, and dampens noise, and all these advantages can be achieved for just a little more money and effort.

Over the years, we have handled numerous concrete projects, and flooring that includes the installation of underlayments generally turn out better. If you would like your vinyl flooring to look fantastic and last for many years, then underlayments are an investment you won’t regret! 

Like at Bill’s Custom Concrete, foundation repair companies in OKC often receive this inquiry at least once a week from a client seeking a cheap means of building a retaining wall. Concrete bag retaining walls, also known as stackable concrete block walls, have been gaining popularity as an alternative to concrete walls or stone walls for those with do-it-yourself skills. But the question remains: do concrete bag retaining walls last?

We have actually seen scores of such systems in the past and examined just how well such systems work in our unique weather conditions in Oklahoma. From hot summer conditions that see temperatures soar above 100 degrees Fahrenheit to unexpected winter freezes, our weather conditions challenge any concrete bag retaining wall system.

Factors That Influence the Longevity of Concrete Bag Retaining Walls

The lifespan of concrete bags for a retaining wall is largely influenced by several crucial elements that we have noted through our years of installation and servicing projects.

Proper Installation Foundation

This is either make or break in terms of a retaining wall installation. We always dig at least 6 inches below grade and provide a compacted gravel base. This is often the reason why DIY projects fail in the first few years because it’s missed or because it’s not compacted well.

Drainage Issues

In Oklahoma, the type of soil that is prevalent is a type of clay soil. This type of soil is a real sponge when it comes to rainwater, thus exerting huge pressures against concrete bag walls. We install a tile drain system behind all our retaining wall with concrete bags that we construct.

Local Soil Conditions

Our large clay soils in our region of OKC also pose a challenge. This type of soil swells when it is wet, and compacted as it dries out. We do find that concrete bag walls work well when placed in an appropriately prepared soil setting.

Height and Load Specifications

In our experience, concrete bag walls are more suitable for walls that are less than 4 feet in height. We have seen that walls that go above that height tend to have problems in 5 to 7 years, depending upon their use, such as supporting heavy loads or handling issues related to water runoff.

Weighing the Pros and Cons

Advantages We’ve Observed

Cost-effectiveness is one of its standout features. In fact, concrete bag walls are always 40-60% cheaper than concrete walls that have been poured in place.

Another area that amazes our clients is installation speed. You can install most concrete bag walls within a 1-2 day period, while a concrete wall installation may take a whole week or more. Similarly, it is easy to repair.

If individual units become cracked or displaced, you can replace units without rebuilding walls.

Possible Disadvantages

Longevity is at the top of our list of disadvantages. Although concrete bag walls that have been correctly installed will easily live for 15 to 20 years, we have witnessed those that have been wrongly installed to have a lifespan of less than 5 years.

Certain aesthetic limitations and issues also upset some of the home’s owners. This is because a uniform concrete block pattern lacks a custom feel that is provided by a natural stone appearance or decorative concrete texture.

Another drawback is that of load-carrying capacity. Such walls aren’t suitable for heavy usage or where the water pressure is substantial.

Our Professional Assessment

We have been placing retaining walls in the Oklahoma City metro region for many years, and we feel that they are a sound investment when done right.

In smaller residential designs that are less than 4 feet in height and with proper draining, we have seen that such walls will work well for 15 to 20 years. This is, of course, provided that installation is done professionally.

Call Bill’s Custom Concrete today to discuss your project – our specialists can provide tailored advice for long-lasting solutions!