We had our concrete driveway done back in September 2006, after 30 days, the contractor recommended us to seal our driveway, so we did. 3 months later, the first snowfall in December 2006, the driveway started to flake, the top layer of concrete started coming off. And it conctinued to flake all over the driveway until today, some of the areas even have little holes. The contractor blamed us for using salt, WE DID NOT USE ANY SALT WHATSOEVER, even the walkway down the side of the house where no one uses during the winter months are flaking, we didn't noticed it until all the snow have melted. I scooped up some of the surface and put it in a tupperware. what is your take on it? should I call a Concrete Repair company for a second opinion? The contractor wants to power wash the whole driveway and re-seal it. Wasn't that the problem in the first place? or was it a weak concrete?
Answer:
When we pour concrete we try not to do too much trowelling on the finished product because that works too much water to the surface and that takes integrity from it. Neither do I think 30 days is enough time to cure the concrete in preparationg for sealing. I'd want another masonry contractor on site to determine how much of a problem you have. I think it may have been trowelled too much besides being sealed too soon after pouring.
Remember, even if you don’t do your own work around the house have to hire someone, you put yourself at a great advantage when you can intelligently discuss a project with the various trades people.
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