Solid Surfaces That Support Daily Use

Professional concrete installation in San Marcos for foundations, driveways, patios, and sidewalks.

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When your driveway cracks from settling soil or your patio surface becomes uneven and collects water, new concrete restores the flat, stable surface you need for vehicles, foot traffic, and outdoor furniture. In San Marcos, where clay soil can shift with moisture changes, properly poured concrete with correct base preparation prevents the sinking and cracking that shortens the life of flatwork. Anderson Contracting handles forming, pouring, and finishing to create driveways, patios, sidewalks, and foundations that drain correctly and hold up under load.

Concrete work starts with excavation and base material that compacts evenly to support the slab above it. Forms are set to the correct height and slope for drainage, then concrete is poured, leveled, and finished with a trowel or broom texture depending on the surface. Residential projects include driveways wide enough for trucks, patios sized for seating areas, and walkways that connect entry points without trip hazards. Commercial flatwork follows the same process but often includes thicker slabs and reinforcement for heavier loads. Consultations help determine the right thickness, reinforcement, and finish for your project scope and timeline.

If you need a new driveway, patio, or foundation poured in San Marcos, contact Anderson Contracting to schedule a site visit and review your layout and grading requirements.

How Base Prep and Finishing Affect Long-Term Performance

Your concrete project in San Marcos begins with excavation to remove unstable soil, followed by placement of crushed stone or gravel that is compacted in layers to create a firm, level base. Forms are built around the perimeter to contain the pour, and rebar or wire mesh is added for reinforcement if the slab will support vehicles or heavy equipment. Concrete is mixed to the correct ratio, poured into the forms, and worked with floats and trowels to achieve a smooth or textured finish.

After the concrete cures, you will notice that water runs off the surface toward drainage areas instead of pooling in low spots. The slab remains level under vehicle weight, and the finished surface resists cracking as long as the base was compacted properly. You can park trucks, set up furniture, or walk across the surface without worrying about uneven sections or soft spots that develop when base prep is skipped.

Concrete does not replace existing slabs that are structurally sound, but it works well when old surfaces have cracked beyond repair or when you are adding new space that requires a durable foundation. The material performs best when poured during moderate temperatures, as extreme heat or cold can affect curing times. Expansion joints are cut into larger slabs to control cracking as the concrete settles.

You Probably Have the Same Questions Others Do

Homeowners in San Marcos often ask about thickness, curing time, and how to prevent cracking, so we have addressed the most common concerns below.

What thickness do I need for a driveway?
Most residential driveways in San Marcos are poured at four inches thick, which supports standard vehicles without cracking. If you park heavy trucks or trailers regularly, a thicker slab with additional reinforcement is recommended.
How long does concrete take to cure?
You can walk on the surface after 24 to 48 hours, but full strength develops over 28 days. Avoid driving on a new driveway for at least one week to prevent surface damage while the concrete hardens.
Why does concrete crack?
Cracking usually results from poor base compaction, inadequate reinforcement, or lack of expansion joints. Properly prepared concrete with correct thickness and reinforcement resists cracking for decades even as soil shifts slightly beneath it.
What finish options are available?
You can choose a smooth trowel finish for a clean look, a broom finish for slip resistance, or exposed aggregate for texture and grip. The finish affects both appearance and traction, especially on sloped surfaces or walkways.
When should I replace instead of repair?
If your existing concrete has multiple large cracks, uneven sections, or drainage problems, replacement is more cost-effective than patching. Small surface cracks can be sealed, but structural issues require removal and repour.

Anderson Contracting pours concrete for San Marcos properties where homeowners and business owners need flatwork that drains correctly and supports daily use without ongoing repairs. Learn more about your project by reaching out to discuss site conditions, dimensions, and the best finish for your application.