Once you’ve chosen your concreter and accepted a quote, many homeowners aren’t quite sure what happens next. Concreting is a staged process, and understanding how it works will help you feel confident and prepared.
1. Deposit and Booking the Job
Most concreters will request a deposit (commonly around 10%) once a quote is accepted. This allows the contractor to lock your job into their schedule, book machinery, order materials, and commit labour.
2. Council Requirements (When Applicable)
Council approval or inspection is only required if work is carried out beyond your property boundary, such as driveway crossings or footpaths. If required, this may add one or more days to the timeline.
3. Site Preparation, Safety & Services
Before work starts, the concreter will assess access, identify visible services where possible, and plan site safety.
4. Concrete Removal and Excavation
Existing concrete may be saw cut or removed whole, then taken to a recycler or tip. Excavation follows based on slab thickness, drainage, and intended use.
Typical timeframe: 1–2 days.
5. Formwork, Drainage & Base Preparation
Formwork is installed, drainage addressed, sand placed and compacted. Plastic may be installed for undercover areas.
Typical timeframe: 1–2 days.
6. Reinforcement, Dowels & Expansion Joints
Steel reinforcement is installed, dowels placed where required, and expansion joints installed to allow controlled movement.
7. The Concrete Pour
Concrete is poured using a pump, wheelbarrow, or truck access. Larger jobs may be poured in stages.
8. Saw Cutting and Completion
Saw cutting is usually completed within 1–2 days to help control cracking. Once done, the job is generally complete.
Weather, Delays & Realistic Expectations
Rain, extreme heat, wind, concrete supply, and pump availability can all affect timing. Decisions not to pour due to weather are made to protect quality.
Typical Timeframe
Most residential driveway and patio projects are completed within around one week, depending on conditions.
Final Thoughts
Concreting relies on timing, experience, and judgement. Delays often protect long-term quality and durability.
