Nanaimo Concrete Pros

Frequently Asked Questions Nanaimo BC

Company & Service Area

Who is Nanaimo Concrete Pros?

We’re a local concrete contractor specializing in residential and light-commercial concrete finishing and decorative concrete. Our focus: durable, great-looking work, clear communication, and clean job sites.

What areas do you service?

Nanaimo plus nearby communities within ~60 km (e.g., Lantzville, Ladysmith, Nanoose Bay, Parksville, Cedar, Cassidy). If you’re unsure, ask and we’ll confirm.

What types of projects do you take on?

Driveways, walkways, patios, steps/landings, garage/basement slabs, shop floors, pool decks, decorative/stamped concrete, exposed aggregate, broom/smooth finishes, overlays/resurfacing, cleaning/sealing, and ICF structures.

Do you offer both residential and commercial services?

Yes. Most work is residential, but we also handle small to mid-size commercial slabs, entrances, and pathways.

Do you provide free quotes?

Yes—virtual estimates from photos/measurements and on-site quotes when needed. You’ll receive a written scope, price, and timeline window.

Estimates, Pricing & Booking

How do you price projects?

Based on scope (size/thickness), site prep, finish type, access, reinforcement, demolition/disposal, and sealing. We provide a fixed price unless conditions change.

Can you ballpark costs from photos?

Yes for simple shapes and finishes. Complex layouts, poor access, or drainage issues require a brief site visit to be accurate.

What’s included in your quote?

Written scope, materials, labour, equipment, reinforcement, saw-cut control joints, cleanup, and basic sealing if specified. Exclusions and any optional upgrades are listed clearly.

Do you take deposits?

Typically 10–30% to secure materials and scheduling. Balance is progress-based or upon completion as agreed.

What payment methods do you accept?

E-transfer, cheque, and major cards. Paid invoices/receipts provided.

How far out are you booking?

Season/weather dependent. In peak season, 2–6 weeks is common. We’ll confirm your earliest start window in writing.

How do change orders work?

Any scope changes are quoted in writing for approval before we proceed—no surprises.

Can you match a competitor’s price?

We’ll review any comparable written quote. If scope/materials match, we’ll do our best to be competitive.

Design, Preparation & Engineering

Do you help with design (layout, borders, colours)?

Yes—simple design consult is included. We’ll recommend thickness, joint layout, borders/contrasts, and colours/patterns that fit your home.

What thickness do you pour?

Typical exterior slabs are 4″–5″ with thickened edges or pads as needed. Driveways commonly 5″+; interior slabs per specification.

Do you use rebar or mesh?

Yes—rebar grids, wire mesh, or fibre-reinforced mixes depending on use and soils. We’ll specify reinforcement in your quote.

How do you handle drainage and slope?

Positive drainage away from structures (usually 1–2% slope). We can add drains, trenching, or gravel bases as needed.

Who handles permits?

If a permit is required (e.g., driveway across municipal property), we’ll advise. Owners typically apply; we assist with notes/drawings.

Do you call utility locates?

Yes—we coordinate BC One Call/utility locates for excavation areas. Owners should flag private lines (sprinklers, low-voltage, etc.).

Can you remove and replace existing concrete?

Yes—demo, haul-away, and replacement are routine. We recycle where possible.

Do you build steps and curbs?

Yes—cast-in-place steps, borders, and curbs with your chosen finish. We confirm rise/run to code where applicable.

Installation Process & Finishes

What’s your typical workflow?

1. Site prep & base; 2) Forms & reinforcement; 3) Place & screed; 4) Finish (broom/smooth/stamp/exposed); 5) Saw-cut joints; 6) Clean & seal (if specified); 7) Final walkthrough.

How do control joints prevent cracking?

They create planned weak points to manage shrinkage. We space based on slab thickness/geometry; saw cuts typically within 6–24 hours, weather permitting.

What finish options do you offer?

Broom, light broom, smooth/steel-trowel (interior), exposed aggregate, stamped patterns (incl. wood-plank), borders, integral colour, colour hardeners, antiquing release, and sealers (matte/satin/gloss).

Do you use air-entrained concrete for exterior slabs?

Yes—exterior mixes are typically air-entrained for freeze-thaw durability and de-icer resistance.

How do you handle hot or cold weather pours?

We plan around temperature/wind/rain, using set-control admixtures, curing blankets, and wind/rain protection as needed.

What if it rains on pour day?

If rain risks finish quality, we reschedule. Light showers after finishing: we protect/pause until safe.

Do you seal exterior concrete?

Yes—sealing reduces staining and weathering. We recommend breathable sealers for decorative work; first-year sealing can be included.

How long does a typical project take on site?

Small patios/walks: 1–2 days. Driveways: 2–3 days. Decorative/complex work may add a day for detail and sealing.

Do you clean up after the job?

Yes—forms removed, site raked/levelled, debris hauled, adjacent areas rinsed. We leave your property tidy.

Driveways, Walkways & Patios

What’s the best finish for a driveway?

Broom or exposed aggregate for traction/durability. Stamped works with proper texture + sealer; we’ll review maintenance.

Can you widen or extend my existing driveway?

Yes—tie-ins are common. We assess base and elevations for a clean, long-lasting connection.

Do you pour thicker aprons or pads for RVs/boats?

Yes—thickened sections, higher-strength mix, tighter jointing for heavy loads; specified in your quote.

Are patios better as one slab or sections?

Depends on size/shape. Large patios benefit from intentional jointing/borders to control cracking and add visual interest.

Can you add borders or banding to walkways?

Yes—contrasting colour/texture borders elevate curb appeal and help mask necessary control joints.

Do you handle steps and landings with the patio/walk?

Yes—integrated steps/landings are common. We coordinate heights to doors/thresholds and add non-slip textures.

Stamped & Decorative Concrete

What is stamped concrete?

Fresh concrete is textured with patterned mats to mimic stone, slate, brick, or wood. Colour can be integral, hardener-based, or added with antiquing/sealers.

How durable is stamped concrete in our climate?

Very durable when air-entrained, properly jointed, and sealed/maintained. Periodic resealing and non-salt de-icers recommended.

Can I choose colours and patterns?

Yes—stone, slate, ashlar, cobble, and wood-plank options. We provide samples/photos to guide choices.

Will stamped concrete be slippery?

High-gloss sealers can be slick. We use traction additives and balanced sealers to maintain grip.

How long does a stamped project take?

Usually 2–3 site days including stamping/detail; add time for wash/seal depending on weather.

Can you refresh old stamped concrete?

Yes—cleaning, re-tinting antiquing colours, crack repairs, and resealing can revive appearance.

Exposed Aggregate & Broom Finishes

What is exposed aggregate?

The surface paste is washed to reveal decorative stone—durable with excellent traction and classic West Coast style.

What maintenance does exposed aggregate need?

Periodic cleaning and resealing (typically every 2–3 years) to deepen colour, resist stains, and improve freeze-thaw durability.

What is a broom finish?

A linear, textured finish created by brooming the surface—great traction and low maintenance.

Can you mix finishes?

Yes—e.g., broom main field with stamped or exposed borders to balance budget and design.

Polished, Interior & Garage/Basement Slabs

Do you pour interior slabs or shop floors?

Yes—interiors, utility rooms, small commercial spaces. Finishes: smooth steel-trowel, densified/polished, or epoxy by others.

What about garage slabs?

Proper slope to door/drain, reinforcement, and saw-cut joints. Sealer or coatings optional.

Can you level an uneven basement floor?

Yes—grinding high spots, skim toppings, or replacement depending on severity and headroom.

Do you offer polished concrete?

For select interiors—we assess mix hardness, desired aggregate exposure, and sheen (matte to high-gloss).

Pool Decks

What finishes are best around pools?

Exposed aggregate, light broom, or textured stamps with traction additive. We avoid slick sealers.

Can you overlay an existing pool deck?

Yes—overlay or repour depending on slab condition and available heights/drainage.

How do you protect pool equipment and water during work?

We isolate work areas, cap/cover equipment, manage wash water responsibly, and schedule sealing when the pool is covered.

ICF (Insulated Concrete Forms)

What is ICF construction?

Insulated forms act as stay-in-place blocks for reinforced concrete walls—strong and energy-efficient.

Where does ICF make the most sense?

Basements, foundations, safe rooms, and full-height exterior walls in new builds or additions.

Is ICF more expensive?

Upfront costs can be higher than wood framing; long-term energy savings, comfort, and durability often offset the difference.

Do you handle engineering for ICF?

We coordinate with your designer/engineer and can refer trusted professionals for stamped drawings.

How do windows, doors, and services work with ICF?

Blockouts and service chases are planned before the pour; we align with trades for clean penetrations and fastening.

Maintenance, Sealing & Repair

How soon can I walk on new concrete?

Light foot traffic after ~24 hours in typical weather. Keep furniture/planters off for several days.

When can vehicles go on a new driveway?

Light vehicles after ~7 days; heavy loads after ~28 days for full design strength (weather/mix dependent).

How often should I reseal decorative concrete?

Generally every 2–3 years depending on traffic, UV, and exposure. We can schedule reminders.

Will my concrete crack?

Concrete naturally shrinks while curing. Proper base, reinforcement, jointing, and curing minimise random cracking, but hairline cracks are possible.

Can you repair cracks and spalls?

Yes—routing/filling, patching, resurfacing, or joint rebuilds. We match colour/texture as closely as practical.

Do you offer cleaning and maintenance services?

Yes—pressure washing (safe pressures), degreasing, stain removal, and resealing programs.

What de-icers are safe?

Avoid salt (sodium chloride) during the first winter and minimise later. Use sand or non-chloride de-icers formulated for concrete.

How do I protect my slab in the first winter?

Keep it clean, reseal as needed, use sand for traction, and avoid placing heavy or sharp-edged objects on slab edges.

How do I clean oil or rust stains?

Use a degreaser for oil; for rust, a concrete-safe remover. Test a small area first; avoid harsh acids.

Can sealed concrete turn white or cloudy?

Moisture trapped under non-breathable sealers can blush. We use breathable sealers and proper cure times; remediation is possible.

Can you resurface tired concrete instead of replacing it?

Often—microtoppings/overlays can refresh appearance if the slab is structurally sound. We’ll assess cracks, movement, and heights.

Do you offer anti-slip additives?

Yes—fine traction additives can be blended into sealer for walkways, steps, and pool areas.

Weather, Timeline & Curing

How long does concrete take to cure?

Most strength in ~7 days; design strength at ~28 days; continues to harden beyond that.

Do you use curing compounds or wet curing?

Depending on finish, we use cure-and-seal or wet curing to slow moisture loss and improve durability/appearance.

How does Nanaimo’s climate affect scheduling?

We plan around rain and temperature swings. Spring–fall is busiest; winter work is selective and weather-dependent.

What if unexpected weather hits mid-project?

We pause, protect the surface, and resume when conditions are safe. Timelines may shift to preserve quality.

How much notice will I get before you start?

We confirm a target week on booking and provide 24–48 hours’ notice before mobilization, weather-dependent.

How long will crews be on my property?

Most projects finish in 1–3 site days plus quick return visits for saw cuts and sealing.

What if temperatures drop below freezing?

We implement cold-weather practices: heated water, accelerators, blankets, and careful scheduling.

Do you pour in the rain?

Light mist may be acceptable; steady rain can harm finish quality. We reschedule when needed.

Quality, Warranty, Safety & Compliance

Do you provide a warranty?

Yes—workmanship warranty on placement/finishing. Materials carry manufacturer warranties; terms and care are listed in your agreement.

Are you licensed and insured?

Yes—commercial liability insurance and WCB coverage. Proof available on request.

Do you comply with local codes and standards?

Yes—we follow applicable building codes and concrete best practices. We advise where permits are required.

How do you manage site safety?

Clear barricades/signage, PPE, tidy hose/power management, and protected work zones. We brief homeowners on safe access.

Will heavy equipment damage my yard?

We plan access to minimise impact, use ground protection where needed, and repair reasonable disturbance per agreement.

Do you guarantee exact colour matches on repairs?

We aim for the closest practical match. Age, sun exposure, and aggregates vary, so perfect matches aren’t always possible.

Can you provide references or photos of past work?

Yes—on request we can share recent local project photos relevant to your scope and finish.

How do you ensure consistent colour in new pours?

Consistent supplier/mix designs, measured colour doses, and controlled placement/finishing sequences.

Site Prep & Homeowner Responsibilities

What should I do before the crew arrives?

Clear vehicles/furniture/bins, mark sprinklers/low-voltage, confirm hose/power, keep pets/children clear.

Do you handle tree roots or soft sub-grade?

We can remove roots in the footprint and replace soft soils with compacted gravel. Severe root pressure may require redesign.

Who handles downspout extensions or drains?

We can add basic surface drains/conduit; complex drainage may involve a landscaper or plumber. We coordinate as needed.

Do I need to be home during the work?

Not necessarily—just ensure access, clear decisions in advance, and a reachable contact.

How noisy/messy is the work?

Expect normal construction noise, saw cutting, and some dust. We keep sites tidy and clean on completion.

Sustainability & Materials

Do you use recycled materials?

Where feasible: recycled aggregates for base, wash-out recycling, and responsible disposal. SCMs (e.g., fly ash/slag) available on request.

Can you pour permeable concrete?

Permeable systems are project-specific. We assess soils, drainage goals, and maintenance requirements.

Do you offer low-gloss or natural-look sealers?

Yes—matte/satin breathable sealers provide a natural look with protection.

Scheduling, Access & Neighbours

How early/late do you work?

Typically daytime hours, weather-dependent. We respect local bylaws and neighbours.

Will the street or sidewalk be blocked?

We aim to keep access open. Short-term closures for trucks/pumps may occur; we’ll communicate in advance.

Do you coordinate with other trades?

Yes—landscapers, builders, electricians, pool contractors. Clear sequencing avoids rework and delays.

Aftercare & Long-Term Performance

When should I wash/seal after the first year?

Gentle wash in spring; reseal every 2–3 years for decorative finishes to keep colour and protection strong.

What about snow removal?

Use plastic shovels or rubber-edged blades. Avoid metal edges that can scratch sealed surfaces.

Will tire marks or hot-tire pickup affect the slab?

Some sealers can mark with hot tires. We use high-quality products; periodic cleaning/resealing helps.

Can I place pavers or posts on top of the slab?

Yes—use pads to distribute weight and avoid trapping moisture under solid objects for long periods.

Helpful Prep Checklist (Owner)

• Clear vehicles, furniture, planters, and bins.
• Mark sprinklers/low-voltage lines and pet areas.
• Confirm hose/tap access and electrical outlets.
• Choose colours/patterns and approve joint layout.
• Keep children/pets out of work zones until sealing is complete.

Contact & Booking

How do I schedule a consultation?

Call 236-362-0364 or use our website contact form. Share photos, rough dimensions, finish preferences, and any timing constraints for a fast response.

What info should I include for the fastest quote?

Address, desired finish, dimensions/sketch, site photos (access/grades), and any must-have dates.

Do you offer seasonal promotions?

Occasionally—ask about current off-season or bundle savings (e.g., driveway + walkway + sealing package).

Did we miss your question?

Reach out anytime—happy to help with specifics about your project, budget, and timeline.