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Concrete Work That Holds Up

Concrete and Driveway Installation in Gig Harbor

Your driveway cracks after a few winters, water pools near the garage, or the surface never cured evenly because the base wasn't prepared correctly. Concrete flatwork in Gig Harbor needs to account for moisture from rain, freeze-thaw cycles during colder months, and soil movement that happens when ground settles unevenly. When done right, a concrete driveway, walkway, or equipment pad stays level and functional for years without constant patching.

Icon Consulting & Construction, Inc. installs concrete driveways, pads, and walkways with attention to base preparation, reinforcement placement, and drainage design. The work includes excavation, compacted gravel or crushed rock base, rebar or wire mesh for tensile strength, and a poured slab finished to match the intended use. Whether you're replacing an old asphalt driveway or adding a concrete pad for a workshop or RV, the process starts with site evaluation and ends with a cured surface that can handle vehicle weight and weather exposure.

If you're planning concrete work in Gig Harbor, contact Icon Consulting & Construction, Inc. to request an estimate.

How the Installation Process Works

The crew begins by excavating the area to the required depth, removing soft or organic material that could shift over time. A compacted gravel base is installed and leveled to support the slab, and forms are set to define edges and control thickness. In Gig Harbor, where drainage is often a concern, the base is sloped slightly to direct water away from structures and prevent pooling that can weaken the concrete or cause surface damage.

After the base is ready, rebar or wire mesh is placed inside the forms to reinforce the slab, and concrete is poured, spread, and finished with a trowel or broom texture depending on the application. You'll see a smooth, uniform surface that's ready to cure, and control joints are cut or formed to manage cracking as the concrete sets. Once cured, the driveway or pad can support regular vehicle traffic without sinking or shifting.

Concrete work integrates with other site improvements such as grading, retaining walls, or foundation prep, and Icon Consulting & Construction, Inc. coordinates timing to keep projects moving efficiently. The service does not include decorative overlays, stamping, or staining, but it does cover the structural work needed to build a long-lasting surface that performs in wet and variable conditions.

It's Normal to Have Questions Before Pouring Concrete

Most homeowners and property managers want to understand how thick the slab needs to be, how long before they can use it, and what happens if the ground shifts after installation.

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How thick should a concrete driveway be?
Residential driveways are typically poured at four inches thick, with reinforcement added to handle standard vehicle loads. If the driveway will support heavier equipment or trucks, a thicker slab with additional rebar may be recommended.
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How long does it take for concrete to cure?
You can walk on the surface after 24 to 48 hours, but full curing takes about 28 days. Light vehicle traffic is usually safe after seven days, depending on weather and slab thickness.
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What causes concrete driveways to crack?
Cracking happens when the base isn't compacted properly, water infiltrates from poor drainage, or the slab lacks control joints to manage natural shrinkage. Proper prep and reinforcement reduce the risk significantly.
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Can concrete be poured in cold or wet weather?
Concrete can be poured in cooler temperatures, but it requires longer curing time and may need protective covering. Heavy rain during the pour or finishing can weaken the surface, so scheduling around forecasts is important in Gig Harbor.
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What maintenance does a concrete driveway need?
Keep expansion joints clear of debris, reseal cracks as they appear, and avoid using salt or harsh chemicals that can damage the surface. Routine cleaning and occasional resealing extend the life of the slab.

Icon Consulting & Construction, Inc. handles concrete installations throughout Gig Harbor for residential and commercial properties that need reliable flatwork built to last. If you're ready to move forward, contact the team to discuss your project and get an estimate.