Frequently Asked Questions

We often get asked many questions beforehand from customers wishing to refresh their driveways or patios etc so we have compiled a brief list of the more commonly asked ones for your benefit.
If there are any not on this list, please feel free to contact us via email, online form or phone at any time and we will gladly supply you with an answer.

• How long with my project take?
  Most jobs usually take between 5-10 days for a complete driveway (weather permitting).
• Can the driveways only be installed in the summer?
  Pattern Impreinted Concrete driveways can be installed all year around. On warmer days, it only takes around 3 - 5 days, cold and damp days, it will take a little longer, approx 5 - 10 days.
• Who will do the work?
  I personally (md) take part in every job from start to finish to ensure everything goes to plan. I will also be available to answer any questions you may have throughtout that period.
• What about my drains?
  We will include any new drains/drainage work all in the price you receive from us with no hidden costs. The price you get is the price you pay.
• How long must I stay off the new driveway?
  Between 24 - 48 hours for pedestrian traffic, 6 days for cars (weather permitting), and 48-days for heavy goods vehicles.
• How strong will the driveway be?
  At a minimum of 30 Newton’s, Concrete is one of the stongest products that can be used for this type of installation. This is similar to the strength used on motorways.
• Can you install me a step for the front and side door?
  Yes, we can build you a step as you require be it square or round or any desired shape you want its your home you decide.
• Does the cobble pattern cost more or less than the slate pattern?
  Each job is priced per square metre, you can have any design pattern and any colour you want the job is priced on the size only.
• How deep do you go down?
  We generally dig down to 8 inches(200mm) minimum. This gives you a minimum concrete deptsh of 100mm and 100mm of M.O.T typ 1 stone. Using all new products i.e. not old re-useable stone but new quarry stone.
• How much mess do you make?
  There may be some dust on the day the concrete is put down, however, the following day, we will wash it all down with a pressure washer which will remove any traces of dirt/dust.
• Is there any Care advice?
  Yes, Don’t use salt to your driveway in very icy conditions.
• How long will my new driveway/path last?
  Even though we only give a 10 year (structural) guarantee, we are confident that the re-inforced concrete will last a lifetime.
• What are control joints?
  Control joints allow the expansion and contraction which naturally occurs in Cocrete during temperature change, the control joints absorb this movement and help to prevent the driveway from cracking. This is a British Standards recommend.
• What happens if I accidentally spill something on it?
  Soapy water usually does the trick for most accidents, if that doesn't work, just call us on 0161 380 0068 and we will be happy to advise you.
• Does the choice of Patterns or and Colours affect the price?
  No, other than acid etching which requires additional visits, you can choose whatever Pattern and Colour you want at no extra cost.
• Why is P.I.C. better than other products?
  Because of its strength and durability and its all round superiority, it by far the best product on the market. Take a look at what they use abroad and you will understand why.
• Is there any guarantee against cracking?
  No, nobody can garantee against this, it's one of the reasons we install crack control joints so the slab will crack were we have cut the joints as required during the seasonal freeze/thaw cycles. We can talk more about positioning of joints etc during the survey.
• What happens if we have to have an area of imprinted concrete dug up ?
  We can easily uplift and relay sections or P.I.C. leaving the finished job with little or no colour difference.
• I want a new driveway what do i do next?
  Call us on 0161380 0068 and arrange for a free site survey and quotation.