Richfield Concrete

What Base Material Is Best Under a Concrete Patio?

May 6, 2025

The strength and life span of a concrete patio depend on more than just the concrete itself. What lies underneath—your base material—is what supports the slab through weather changes, weight loads, and time. If the base isn’t right, even the best concrete work can crack, settle, or shift. Choosing the right material for your patio’s foundation is one of the most important parts of the project. This guide explains your

How Minnesota Weather Affects Your Concrete Driveway

April 29, 2025

Minnesota winters are harsh. Long months of deep freezes, followed by humid, storm-filled summers, create a tough environment for anything exposed outdoors. One of the most vulnerable parts of your home is the concrete driveway. Though it appears strong, it’s constantly under pressure from weather-related stress that can lead to damage over time. Knowing how Minnesota weather affects your concrete driveway helps you maintain its strength and appearance for years

How to Spot and Solve Tree Root Damage to Your Foundation

April 22, 2025

Foundation cracks often get blamed on natural settling or old age. But when cracks appear without clear reason, the problem could lie underground. Tree roots, although a sign of a healthy yard, can cause major structural issues if they grow too close to your home. These roots can shift soil, create pressure, and eventually damage your foundation. Early detection and action are key to preventing expensive repairs. How Tree Roots

What Is Street Creep? (How It Damages Your Driveway and Foundation)

April 15, 2025

When your driveway starts cracking or your foundation shows signs of shifting, the problem might not be what you expect. One hidden force many homeowners overlook is street creep—a slow, steady movement that can cause major structural problems over time. What Is Street Creep? Street creep is the gradual expansion and shifting of a street or roadway toward your home. This movement happens because of seasonal temperature changes, particularly in

Why a Concrete Patio Is Cheaper to Build Than a Deck

April 8, 2025

Homeowners looking to expand their outdoor living area often face a crucial decision: should they build a deck or a concrete patio? While both options can create a beautiful and functional space, one is clearly more budget-friendly. A concrete patio is the more affordable choice, making it an excellent option for those looking to enhance their backyard without breaking the bank. The Cost Difference Between a Concrete Patio and a

Can You Pressure Wash New Concrete?

April 1, 2025

Freshly poured concrete is a significant investment, whether it’s a new driveway, patio, or walkway. After installation, you might notice dust, debris, or even discoloration forming on the surface. This leads to a common question: can you pressure wash new concrete? While power washing is an effective cleaning method, using it too soon can cause unexpected problems. How Soon Can You Pressure Wash New Concrete? The Curing Process Matters Concrete

How to Fix Concrete That Is Too Wet

March 25, 2025

A strong and durable concrete structure starts with the right mix. However, one of the most common mistakes in concrete work is adding too much water. While it may seem like extra water makes the mixture easier to work with, it can seriously weaken the final result. If the concrete is too wet, it may not set properly, leaving you with a brittle, compromised surface that can crack or deteriorate

Volumetric vs. Ready Mix Concrete

March 18, 2025

The success of any construction project depends on many factors, but one of the most crucial is the type of concrete used. Whether building a driveway, a foundation, or a large commercial structure, selecting the right concrete can impact cost, efficiency, and durability. Two of the most common choices are volumetric concrete and ready mix concrete. Each has its own advantages and ideal applications. Understanding the differences can help contractors,

Does Concrete Need Rebar? Key Factors to Consider

March 11, 2025

Concrete is one of the most widely used construction materials in the world. It is known for its strength and durability, making it a popular choice for foundations, driveways, sidewalks, and large-scale structures like bridges. However, despite its impressive qualities, concrete has a significant weakness—it is strong in compression but weak in tension. This is where reinforcement, such as rebar, comes into play. But does concrete need rebar in all