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Are you planning to have a new concrete patio or driveway installed on your property? Be sure to hire an experienced contractor who’s committed to following best installation practices. There are several crucial details involved in installing a concrete fixture that, if not observed, can spell trouble both for the fixture itself and adjacent areas of your home.
One such detail is installing the concrete fixture at the proper elevation and slope. While this is important for any installation, it’s especially so if the home is situated on a sloped hillside or below street level. If the contractor doesn’t engineer the elevation/slope properly, it can result in problems like pooling water when it rains, which can cause the fixture to fail prematurely and potentially lead to foundation erosion.
Another important detail is making sure the concrete fixture doesn’t block the home’s crawl space vents, as this can cause issues with moisture buildup in the crawl space. Furthermore, if any part of the concrete goes up against wood siding or trim, metal flashing must be installed to protect the wood from moisture damage.
Due to the importance of these seemingly minor details, it’s crucial to hire a contractor whom you can trust to do the job correctly. Don’t assume every contractor is an expert—do some research and quiz them about their work practices. By hiring a contractor who’s well-versed in concrete installation and committed to quality workmanship, you can rest assured you’ll get a product that’s built to last.