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Creating Beautiful Concrete Surfaces in Easton, CT
Let us create a beautiful concrete surface that complements the natural charm of your Easton property. Excellence Masonry and Contracting specializes in finishes that blend seamlessly with the landscape.
A successful, crack-resistant concrete installation depends entirely on the technical details of the preparation and pour, with the chemical mix of the concrete being a very big factor in longevity. We begin by ensuring the sub-base is uniformly compacted to prevent settling that can cause stress fractures later on. To manage the immense tensile forces concrete endures, we strategically place rebar and wire mesh reinforcement within the slab, at times opting for other methods of concrete fortification where necessary. Crucially, we incorporate properly spaced control joints, which are planned grooves that encourage the concrete to crack in a clean, straight line as it cures and contracts. These technical steps, combined with the right concrete mix and professional finishing, are what separate a short-lived slab from a permanent, durable surface.
Why Choose Us?
There are many construction, landscaping, outdoor living, and design companies to choose from- here is what makes us different.
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Our Approach is Thorough and Integrated – As a design-build firm, we eliminate the gap between planning and execution, ensuring every project or service is assessed and delivered with maximum efficiency and zero oversights.
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The Team We Have is Experienced and Robust – Backed by a 25-year family legacy and a crew with up to 50 years of expertise, our team of long-term employees and trusted partners provides a level of craftsmanship that only comes from decades in the field.
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Industry-Leading Warranties and a Client for Life Guarantee – We provide warranties that far exceed state minimums. Our "Client for Life" commitment means we intend to stand by you, and our work, well beyond one project or its warranty. Our goal is to build a relationship, and become a trusted resource for you, year after year. We remain open to address issues, answer questions, assist with maintenance, or repairs, no matter what. Our business is relationship based, not transactional.
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Transparency and Consistent Communication – We keep you in control through complete education and daily updates. From the first call to the final walkthrough, we ensure all costs, options, and timelines are fully transparent.
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Commitment to Professional Responsibility and Top-Quality – We take full ownership of project or service management so you don't have to. Our focus is on delivering the highest feasible standard within your budget, supported by premium partners and a high-performance process.
Our Process
Of course, every project, service and every situation is different, and so is our approach. Below is a general and simplified outline of our process. We can also bid and build to your preexisting plan or design.
1.
Discovery/Consultation
We start by assessing the site’s topography and intended use (driveway, pad, or sidewalk). We discuss mix designs, air-entrainment for frost protection, and preliminary options for broom finishes or professional-grade sealants.
2.
Design / Planning
We value-engineer the slab by determining the necessary thickness, reinforcement (rebar vs. mesh), and sub-base compaction. We establish a construction plan that includes the precise location of control joints to manage expansion and prevent cracking.
3.
Construction / Service
Our team clears the site, forms the area with precision, and pours high-strength concrete. We focus on timing and finishing to ensure a durable, safe surface. Communication is consistent during the critical curing phase.
What are the different types of concrete finishes?
Common finishes include a classic smooth/troweled finish, a non-slip brushed finish ideal for walkways, and decorative stamped concrete, which can be colored and textured to mimic stone, brick, or other patterns.
FAQ's
Will my new concrete crack?
All concrete can develop hairline cracks, but significant cracking is preventable. We ensure longevity by using a proper sub-base, the correct concrete mix, and strategically placed control joints to manage stress during expansion and contraction.
What is the process for installing a concrete patio or walkway?
The process involves excavating the area, building a solid, compacted base of gravel, setting up precise formwork to create the shape, pouring the concrete, and then expertly finishing the surface to the desired texture before it cures.
How long until I can walk on my new concrete?
You can typically walk on new concrete within 24-48 hours. However, it takes about 28 days to reach its full strength, so we advise against placing heavy items like large planters or furniture on it for at least one week.
Should I choose concrete or pavers?
It depends on your goals. Concrete often offers a lower initial cost for large, simple areas and provides a solid, uniform surface. Pavers offer more design variety, are easier to repair if a single unit is damaged, and are more flexible in freeze-thaw cycles.
4.
Walk-Thru, Clean-Up & Maintain
Once the forms are removed, we walk the project to go over the cure time and weight limits. We’ll discuss the importance of sealing the concrete to protect against salt and oil penetration, ensuring your surface remains clean and resilient.
Testimonials
Will my new concrete crack?
All concrete can develop hairline cracks, but significant cracking is preventable. We ensure longevity by using a proper sub-base, the correct concrete mix, and strategically placed control joints to manage stress during expansion and contraction.
Should I choose concrete or pavers?
It depends on your goals. Concrete often offers a lower initial cost for large, simple areas and provides a solid, uniform surface. Pavers offer more design variety, are easier to repair if a single unit is damaged, and are more flexible in freeze-thaw cycles.
What is the process for installing a concrete patio or walkway?
The process involves excavating the area, building a solid, compacted base of gravel, setting up precise formwork to create the shape, pouring the concrete, and then expertly finishing the surface to the desired texture before it cures.
How long until I can walk on my new concrete?
You can typically walk on new concrete within 24-48 hours. However, it takes about 28 days to reach its full strength, so we advise against placing heavy items like large planters or furniture on it for at least one week.
What are the different types of concrete finishes?
Common finishes include a classic smooth/troweled finish, a non-slip brushed finish ideal for walkways, and decorative stamped concrete, which can be colored and textured to mimic stone, brick, or other patterns.