Are you ready to give your home a makeover but don’t know where to start? How about making a statement with your home’s entryway? Walking to your front door, the steps are one of the things guests notice when they visit. Professionally laid concrete can boost your home’s value and improve its curb appeal. Your options include solid and pre-fabricated concrete steps. Which type is best? J&A Services, a concrete contractor in Odenton, and beyond, explains more about these concrete types and their benefits.
Pre-Fabricated Concrete
Pre-fabricated concrete, also referred to as pre-cast concrete, is more affordable than solid concrete, but the saying, “you get what you pay for” is right in this situation. Pre-cast concrete is more convenient than solid concrete because you don’t have to wait for the weather to be bright and sunny for installation. This type of molded concrete is made in a factory, which means it’s not ideal for custom jobs. If the concrete mold is mis-measured, the dimensions can’t be adjusted, and the materials are wasted. Pre-cast concrete does not adapt well to minor or significant irregularities, such as changes in the ground surface.
Solid Concrete
Solid concrete, also referred to as poured-in-place or cast-in-place concrete, is the traditional paving method. Although this type of concrete requires favorable weather conditions for installation, the result is a sturdy product that lasts for many years. Ground irregularities are not an issue with solid concrete because the bottom step is set deep in the ground to provide a strong foundation that is suitable to build on. This traditional concrete method is ideal for supporting handrails, which increases safety and accessibility. Poured-in-place concrete is easy to repair and connect, which offers more flexibility than pre-cast concrete. Cast-in-place concrete is versatile, making it the ideal option for creating unique designs and styles for your home.
How Can a Contractor Help?
At J&A Services, we offer over 20 years of experience in the paving industry and provide a variety of residential paving services, including:
- Driveways
- Patios
- Steps
- Home foundations
- Porches
- Basement floors
- Retaining walls
- And much more
We are a family-owned and operated concrete contractor in Odenton who service Baltimore, Howard, Anne Arundel, and Harford counties. J&A Services are here to see your project through from beginning to end with the quality customer service and high-quality equipment and materials. Contact us today to learn more about our paving services and ask how we can help you transform your home into an absolute dream.