Have you made your mind up on whether you want a flagstone, limestone, or concrete patio installation san antonio? Are you unsure how to go about it or who you should contact? So I'll demonstrate how to do it. I'll walk you through a step-by-step approach that outlines the three red flags that indicate a shady or uneducated contractor. These three factors will ensure that the job is done correctly and by the right contractor.
First things first, take the first step. A Concrete Footing is required for every stone installation. It's not a question of opinion; it's a question of reality. This is how it's done if you want it done well and for it to stand the test of time, no exceptions. Any contractor who suggests avoiding a concrete foundation as a cost-cutting measure should raise a red flag. Unfortunately, 85 percent of contractors will inform you that the stone can be laid directly on top of compacted granite or a base material. This is the type of contractor you want to avoid.
While what they're offering to you looks like a patio, it won't hold up to the elements, erosion, or soil movement beneath it. At best, you'll enjoy a few crack-free years before it starts to come apart. This is the most commonly recommended fraud or shortcut for lowering pricing while still getting the job. Because the concrete footing was removed from the job cost, the price dropped. This option of "no concrete required" is frequently offered to customers who are on a tight budget. The professionals that offer this service are only interested in your money, not your patio or property. You get a kind of patio with no concrete footing, but it's actually just a veneer poured on the ground.
The thickness of a concrete patio, sidewalk slab, or footing should be at least 4 inches. Due to pre-existing structural limits, this is occasionally decreased to roughly 3 1/2 inches. If you run into space constraints, you'll need a professional masonry contractor to help you come up with additional solutions. This brings us to the next phase in the process.
The second step is to engage a skilled masonry contractor. Before you start getting quotes, do some research. Most competent masonry builders will be able to converse with you about concrete chemistry and technology. I did say technology. There have been some amazing advancements in concrete additives and mixtures over the last ten years. These advancements have brought solutions to difficulties and constraints that existed previously. Because it's his livelihood, a true patio or concrete pavers installation san antonio professional will be able to talk shop with you.
A contractor who is unable to do so or who does not appear to be at ease is most likely a novice at best. Another red flag should be raised in this case. Concrete slabs and mortar are similar to a cake batter. The components that determine a good solid installation are properly mixing the ingredients and allowing the slab or masonry product to cure. Again, talk to your contractor and make sure he understands concrete and masonry chemistry, additives, and the curing process. If he is, there's a good chance he'll have a fantastic patio.
The third and final stage, but certainly not the least, is to Check references, read reviews, and ask to see examples of their work. Check out this stuff and try to look at at least one work they've completed. Inquire directly if the prior client has any ties to the contractor. Red flag number three would be any resistance or ambiguity in this procedure.
So, from 1 to 3, in order. A concrete base is required for all masonry projects. Make sure your patio builder is familiar with masonry chemistry, additions, and enhancements. Check references and reviews, and avoid the once-in-a-lifetime discounts.
Get a new contractor if you get even one red flag. There are plenty men who know what they're doing out there.
