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F.A.Q.


Frequently Asked Questions

Do I have to tear out my old concrete?


Answer:

We do offer the option to pour over existing concrete. As long as there is the ability to have enough fall away from your home and room at the threshold to get proper thickness.

How safe is decorative concrete?


Answer:

As with most materials, there is a slip hazard when concrete is wet. Some decorative finishes, however, actually improve traction. Prater Concrete uses an acrylic based professional grade sealer with an anti-slip additive. Please take caution when walking on sealed wet concrete.

Is decorative concrete easy to maintain?


Answer:

Its as simple as washing dishes! With a bit of mild dish soap (blue Dawn Original is the best) soft broom/mop and a hose. Using the soft broom/mop gently scrub the surface and into any grout lines and rise with hose or pressure washer. Using a leaf blower to dry the surface is best to keep any dirt.dust from sticking to the clean surface. We DO NOT recommend resealing your decorative concrete yourself! Please give us a call to get an estimate on resealing.

Does decorative concrete crack?


Answer:

Almost all concrete cracks. Prater Concrete uses a 4,000psi onsite made concrete, proper rebar installation and correctly placed saw cuts. Unfortunately, with the poor soil quality in many areas of North Texas, the wet/dry cycles can contribute to concrete cracking/shifting/heaving. If minor cracks appear, they probably won’t be very noticeable and aren’t anything to interfere with the structural integrity. Prater Concrete offers a 2 yr warranty on crack separation and heaving.

How long does decorative concrete last?


Answer:

Decorative concrete is a pretty duriable finish that with proper maintenance can last for many years. We recommend making sure any patio furniture have good protective feet on any patio furniture, avoid concrete cleaners as it can strip the acrylic based concrete sealer as well as avoiding using any type of rock salt or ice melt during periods of ice/snow.

Can I DIY decorative concrete?


Answer:

Installing decorative concrete the right way requires a lot of specialized skills and tools and when it goes wrong, it goes very wrong. Unless you are very experienced in installing concrete, we suggest you let Prater Concrete handle it! We also offer follow up services for previous clients. We offer pressure washing, color touch up and resealing to previous clients to bring a fresh look. Prater Concrete recommends pressure washing and resealing after several years

How Does decorative concrete affect the value of my home?


Answer:

Decorative concrete adds a customized, long lasting, low maintenance beauty to your homes curb appeal and property value.

How much does decorative concrete cost?


Answer:

Prater Concrete offers a complimentary on site estimates to give you the most comprehensive breakdown and can tailor your project with your budget. There are several factors to consider which include: Elevation/Fall of an area including current concrete. Second factor to consider: Are there any sprinkler heads, control boxes, weeping hoses and underground utilities in the area that may need to to be capped / rerouted. Lastly, the condition of current concrete to determine repair / replacement or ability to pour over existing concrete.

Where can I use decorative concrete?


Answer:

We install decorative concrete almost anywhere on the exterior of your home! Areas such as patios, pool decks, walkways and driveways are extremely popular.

What is decorative concrete?


Answer:

Decorative concrete is the process of using a patterned concrete stamp into concrete to give the look of stone, wood or tile. It comes in all shapes, sizes, and textures. Prater Concrete uses a natural color pallet to accentuate the surrounding area.