First 24 hours
Keep people, pets, furniture, equipment, sprinklers, and other traffic off the fresh surface while the concrete begins hardening.
Concrete project FAQs
Good questions deserve clear answers.
Every property is different. These answers explain the basics; your written estimate will cover the details for your space.
How thick will the concrete be?
Thickness depends on the project’s use, soil and base conditions, and expected loads. Brooks reviews those factors on site and includes the planned scope in your estimate.
Will the project use wire mesh or rebar?
Reinforcement is selected for the project rather than applied as a one-size-fits-all detail. The estimate will identify the planned reinforcement when it is part of the scope.
Who handles permits?
Permit requirements vary by location and project type. Any known permit responsibility will be discussed before work is scheduled.
How soon can new concrete be used?
Cure time varies with the mix, weather, thickness, and intended use. Brooks will give you project-specific instructions before the job is complete.
Do you remove existing concrete?
Yes. Removal and replacement can be included when needed, along with base preparation and disposal details.
How are drainage and grading handled?
Existing elevations, runoff, and the way the new concrete connects to the property are reviewed during the site visit before the pour is planned.
What happens if rain is forecast?
Concrete work is weather-dependent. If conditions could affect placement or finish quality, Brooks will communicate any schedule adjustment directly.
Is there a workmanship warranty?
Any written coverage that applies will be explained with the project estimate. If a concern arises after the work, contact Brooks directly so the project can be reviewed.
Concrete aftercare
After the pour
What the standards actually say.
The 2023 Florida Building Code—Residential, Section R506.1, directs residential slab-on-ground construction to ACI 332. The standards do not set one universal homeowner traffic-release time; strength gain depends on the concrete mixture, temperature, curing, and load.
24–48 hours
Light foot traffic is generally acceptable once the surface has hardened. Avoid furniture, sharp objects, and concentrated loads.
At least 7 days
For a typical residential driveway, wait at least seven days before normal passenger vehicles. Keep RVs, trailers, dumpsters, and heavy equipment off.
28-day benchmark
Concrete strength is commonly specified and tested at 28 days. Heavy loads should be placed only when the slab was designed for them and the required strength has been reached.
Code basis: Florida Building Code—Residential §R506.1 references ACI 332 for residential slabs-on-ground. The time ranges above are conservative aftercare guidance, not universal code-mandated release times. Read the Florida code section · NRMCA concrete guidance
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