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egooks · Jul 30, 2008, 03:21 AM

I had a concrete slab poured in s. fl yesterday 7/29 by a contractor. It is connecting to an existing concrete drive and sidewalk. I noticed visible trowel marks along the edges and some little holes and visible rocks in some places (edges)... It was supposed to have a broom finish but the contractor said they couldn't do it because too many rocks came to the surface when they tried, thus the trowel marks. He said he would buff the surface to get rid of the trowel marks but now doesn't want to bother as he feels it looks "good" :confused: Also, you can visibly see the edge of the sidewalk about 1/2 inch or less and drive it connects to.. I thought it would be level with these surfaces... now I am afraid water will just collect there? The contractor doesn't see this as a problem. Of course, I am no expert, but I think this is his error... My question is are these issues definitely installer error that would justify renegotiating price? And are these indications there may be future issues with the concrete?

BJKrukowski · Jul 30, 2008, 07:59 AM

If you had a written agreement for a broom finish and the contractor did not complete then you can adjust the price, it must be in writing look at your estimate.

As for the 1/2" visable edge, Is this 1/2" above the ground surface? If so, you will have errosion issues during heavy rains and can potentially damage your lawn. Same for if the 1/2" you are referring to is a separation between walk and driveway.

hkstroud · Jul 30, 2008, 08:18 AM

Originally Posted by egooks

the contractor said they couldn't do it because too many rocks came to the surface when they tried, thus the trowel marks.

That's you know what. The rocks or aggreate doen't come to the surface when you work and trowel the concrete, they sink. The surface should have been troweled smooth, then the broom finish done. Sounds like he tried to skip the troweling or did a very poor job of it.

The driveway and the side walk surfaces should be level, even I could do that.

Originally Posted by egooks

He said he would buff the surface to get rid of the trowel marks.

Can't be done. He could grind it down but that would probably make it worse.
If he has his money, you'll never see him again.

egooks · Jul 30, 2008, 10:09 AM

Originally Posted by hkstroud

That's you know what. The rocks or aggreate doen't come to the surface when you work and trowel the concrete, they sink. The surface should have been troweled smooth, then the broom finish done. Sounds like he tried to skip the troweling or did a very poor job of it.

The driveway and the side walk surfaces should be level, even I could do that.

Can't be done. He could grind it down but that would probably make it worse.
If he has his money, you'll never see him again.

Thanks... this is what I thought... to both answers above. Well, we didn't pass final inspection... suprise... the new driveway is 1/2 in. BELOW the other surfaces! It looks horrible.. He only got 1/3 down thankfully I guess:( Inspector suggested resurfacing it to save digging it out? Any suggestions there? Thanks for your time! Ps. Not sure if I am putting this in the right space.. if not sorry!

hkstroud · Jul 30, 2008, 07:01 PM

Well I don't know about resurfacing. There is a minium depth that concrete can be poured. I think its 2" but don't know. You might want to consult another contractor. How much is 1/3. You might want to cancel contract and find another contractor. You might want to insist on removal and start over.