Concrete FAQ's

Typically, you can drive average-size cars/SUVs on your new concrete 7 days after the last poured section. For heavier vehicles, it's best to wait 10-14 days after the last pour. Temperature and other factors may alter the wait time, and cooler weather may extend it. It's always best to ask your concrete contractor before use. Gentrup Concrete LLC

Foot traffic for new driveways, patios, sidewalks, and similar areas can normally be resumed 1-2 days after the concrete is placed. A visual test can be applied for foot traffic – if the concrete is no longer "green" or dark in color and has whitened to a normal new concrete color, it's most likely usable. It's best to walk lightly and avoid dragging anything, as this can scuff the surface. Fur babies should wait an extra day or two as their claws will scuff the new concrete. It's always best to consult your concrete contractor before use. Gentrup Concrete LLC

Unfortunately, all concrete cracks. Concrete contractors try to anticipate cracking and cut 'control joints' in areas susceptible to cracking. These control joints are the straight lines you see cut in your concrete. They create a weak spot in the concrete, encouraging controlled cracking and helping to conceal cracks that were likely to occur anyway. While good contractors are mostly successful in anticipating cracks, sometimes areas get missed or cracking occurs unexpectedly. Most hairline cracks do not compromise the integrity of your concrete. However, if you notice a crack that is widening or opening up, it's time to call a professional like Gentrup Concrete LLC

No! Almost all residential concrete contractors are small outfits (including us). Concrete projects differ from other construction endeavors, as mistakes are not easily or quickly rectified. Concrete work is both expensive and unforgiving. If done incorrectly, the cost to remove and replace the concrete will almost always exceed the contractor's profit. When contractors are paid upfront, there is less incentive to address issues, and customers have less leverage to compel them to do so. Gentrup Concrete LLC adheres to a 'No Money Upfront' approach, we highly suggest you hire a contractor with a similar standard or, at most, a no more than 10% deposit.

No. Using salt and ice-removing products, even those labeled as 'concrete safe,' can have detrimental effects on your concrete's longevity and structural integrity. While these substances are effective in melting ice and snow, they contribute to the accelerated deterioration of concrete. The chemical reaction between salt and concrete can lead to the formation of brine, which seeps into the concrete's pores. Upon freezing, it causes internal pressure, resulting in cracks and spalling. Additionally, the corrosive nature of salt can damage the reinforcing steel within the concrete, leading to further structural concerns over time. Whenever possible, leave snow and ice on the concrete. If not feasible, use a plastic snow shovel to remove snow. If you have to use salt, wash or pressure wash your concrete as soon as possible. Keeping your concrete sealed can provide better protection against salt damage. Gentrup Concrete LLC

Sealer is a crucial ally for your new concrete. Having invested a significant amount of your hard-earned money in new concrete, it's essential to keep it protected. While we typically apply sealer to your concrete, ensuring it remains sealed is equally important. Sealer naturally wears over time, typically within 2-5 years. An easy way to check if your sealer has worn off is to pour water on the concrete. If the concrete absorbs the water, then your sealer is likely gone. Properly sealed concrete will leave water beaded on the surface. Unsealed concrete, especially newer concrete, is susceptible to freeze/thaw and salt damage. For DIY enthusiasts, click here to learn more. Otherwise, contact a professional like Gentrup Concrete LLC to clean and reseal your concrete.

It's always best to have a written bid and contract for your new concrete work. Gentrup Concrete LLC always provides a comprehensive bid/contract sent to you via email or snail mail. This document will include the work to be performed, our start date, the project length, the bid amount, along with all the other details needed to ensure clarity for both you and Gentrup Concrete LLC regarding the project details, payment structure, and parties involved. See our example bid here.

Our services include the more basic concrete construction - like driveways, patios, sidewalks, steps, porches, floors, walls, footers & more. As well as , decorative concrete - like stamped concrete, exposed aggregate, colored or stained concrete, etched & engraved concrete, & much more. We do NOT offer concrete "lifting" or "leveling". If your concrete needs such - it's almost always best to remove the concrete, fix the underlying problem & replace with new concrete.  Gentrup Concrete LLC

During the warmer months you can expect us to be booked out roughly 60-90 plus days. During the cooler months expect 30-60 plus days. Cooler weather pricing may be lower, due to a lesser demand. Yes, it's actually possible to pour concrete in cooler temperatures. In reality, using the proper cold weather protections & additives the final product can be better looking & even stronger. A starting date will be provided on the contract we'll send via email or snail mail. Gentrup Concrete LLC

Gentrup Concrete LLC is a small, family owned business based in the Bellevue / Newport area. Expect personal service directly with the business owner, myself, Chris Gentrup. I'll be the one to compose & send your bid. I'll be on-site for most of, if not all of your project. I'll be the gentleman going over your projects details every night - ensuring it turns out prefect. Throughout this process, I'll be easily available to communicate with - via text, email, phone or in person. 

Gentrup Concrete LLC has served the Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky area's concrete needs for more than 100 years. Providing a wide range of residential and commercial concrete services. Whether it's a new concrete driveway, patio, sidewalk, pool deck, or decorative concrete - like stamped, stained or etched concrete. Gentrup Concrete can handle your project's needs. See our Service Area Map.

Yes, it's actually possible to pour concrete in cold temperatures. Doing so may require some adjustments, such as using accelerators and insulating blankets. In the past, insulating blankets had been known to leave unsightly marks on the concrete. However, Gentrup Concrete LLC has found a product that combats this issue. In reality, cold weather concrete can be cheaper(less demand & required labor), be better looking(more time to work with the concrete), and may even be stronger than concrete poured in the Summer months.