Agree the preparation and aftercare before placement.

Before the pour

Ask who assesses the existing ground, drainage, access and required preparation. Confirm responsibility for relevant approvals and locating services before excavation. Site conditions can change the scope; agree how findings and additional work are documented before they become a surprise charge.

The Concrete Alberta residential guidance is a useful reference for discussions about the overall process. It is not a substitute for the design, specification or instructions for your property.

Weather and curing are part of the job

Concrete Alberta’s placing and finishing guidance identifies time, temperature and moisture-loss protection as curing considerations. Ask the contractor what protection is planned and how unsuitable conditions affect scheduling.

Do not request a faster handover by changing the mix or skipping protection. Ask who monitors the work and whom to contact if the protection is disturbed. Keep children, pets and vehicles away according to the contractor’s instructions.

Get a written handover

• When may the surface be walked on, driven on or loaded?
• Which cleaning and winter-care instructions apply?
• Is sealing included, and what product and timing are specified?
• What should be reported, and how will it be assessed?
• What warranty terms and maintenance records apply?

This page does not provide a universal curing duration or certify a surface as ready for use. Follow the responsible provider’s written directions and product specifications. Keep the handover with the accepted scope and contract.