The Most Common Residential Concrete Projects (And What to Expect)

Driveways: More Than Just a Place to Park

Let’s start with the big one, the driveway. Around neighborhoods like St. Matthews, KY, where older homes meet fresh renovations, the driveway is often the first clue that someone’s been investing in curb appeal. A properly poured concrete driveway is thick (we’re talking 4–6 inches), reinforced with rebar or steel mesh, and poured over a compacted gravel base. But here's where folks get tripped up: it’s not just about pouring concrete. You need prep, formwork, control joints, and time, good concrete doesn't rush.

Expect a few days of groundwork followed by a pour-and-finish day. Then? Patience. It’ll be a week or so before you can park on it. And don't stress about light color variations or faint surface lines, they're normal. Concrete cures slowly and, weirdly, kind of forever. A reliable general contractor, like Will Power Solutions, familiar with St. Matthews soil quirks and seasonal shifts will help make sure that welcome mat of a driveway doesn't end up cracked and sloped like a rollercoaster.

Patios: Your Backyard’s Stage

A concrete patio can turn a basic backyard into a true hangout spot. Whether you're grilling, gardening, or just sitting back with a cup of coffee, the patio's the stage. Stamped patterns, smooth trowel finishes, or brushed textures, there's more personality in a slab than you might think. Around St. Matthews, where people take pride in their homes and porches, a well-done patio can add both value and character.

But it's not just about looks. Drainage matters. Expansion joints prevent cracking. And layout affects everything from sun exposure to how water runs off during Kentucky's surprise summer storms. A good general contractor won’t just pour a slab, they’ll plan for how you live. That means making sure the patio slopes just enough to shed rainwater (but not your chair), sits at the right elevation, and fits the feel of your yard.

Walkways: Small Pour, Big Impact

Walkways may not seem exciting, but they quietly pull a property together. In St. Matthews, with its cozy yards and winding garden paths, a thoughtfully placed concrete walkway adds both form and function. They're typically 3 to 4 feet wide, gently curved, and often finished with a light broom texture for grip. Not only do they keep your shoes clean on rainy days, but they also guide guests exactly where you want them to go.

Working with a general contractor for this kind of job means you’ll get more than just a narrow slab. They’ll help shape the path to suit your landscaping and daily habits. Expect:

• Grading to avoid puddles

• Subtle design elements like edging or scoring

• Coordination with other outdoor features like steps or fences

  
  

And here's the thing: even small projects like these benefit from professional planning. It’s one thing to have concrete poured. It’s another to have it poured where it actually makes your life easier.

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