Understanding the Concrete Pouring Process: Step by Step

April 20, 2025

What really goes into a solid slab of concrete?


Pouring concrete might look simple — just mix, pour, and smooth it out, right? But behind every smooth driveway, strong patio, or sturdy foundation is a step-by-step process that takes planning, precision, and experience.

Whether you’re a homeowner curious about the work being done in your yard, or you’re planning a new project soon, here’s a local breakdown of how the concrete pouring process works — especially here in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, where the weather and soil require a little extra know-how.


1. Planning and Site Preparation

Everything starts with a solid plan. Before any concrete hits the ground, we evaluate the site to make sure it’s ready. This includes:

  • Measuring and marking the area
  • Checking the soil condition and drainage
  • Removing grass, roots, or old concrete
  • Compacting the soil to reduce settling

In Baton Rouge, where clay-heavy soil is common, proper site prep for concrete slabs is especially important. Skipping this step leads to cracking, shifting, and poor drainage — and nobody wants that.


2. Building the Forms

Once the site is clear and level, we build forms around the pour area using wood or metal to act as a mold. These forms define the shape and thickness of the slab and hold the concrete in place as it cures.

Forms must be:

  • Secure and level
  • Able to handle the weight of wet concrete
  • Set to the proper slope for drainage (especially for patios and driveways)
⚠️ Pro tip: Water needs somewhere to go. Poor slope = puddles = problems. In Baton Rouge, that usually means sloping away from homes and structures.

3. Reinforcement for Strength

Concrete is strong on its own, but reinforcing it helps prevent cracks and structural failure. We typically use:

  • Rebar (steel rods)
  • Wire mesh
  • Or sometimes fiber additives in the concrete mix

This step is crucial for driveways, foundations, and heavy-use slabs. Without reinforcement, concrete is more vulnerable to cracking, especially in Louisiana's ever-shifting soil.


4. Mixing and Pouring the Concrete

Time to pour — but it’s not just about dumping and smoothing.

The concrete is either mixed on-site or delivered by a ready-mix truck, depending on the job size. Once it arrives, it’s poured quickly and evenly across the area within the forms.

It has to be poured and worked fast — especially on hot, humid Baton Rouge days when it can start setting faster than you’d think.



5. Leveling and Screeding

After pouring, we use tools like screeds and floats to level out the surface and remove air pockets. This step ensures a smooth, even finish with no dips or humps.

There are different types of finishes depending on the job:

  • Broom finish for driveways and sidewalks (adds grip)
  • Trowel finish for smooth indoor surfaces
  • Stamped or decorative finishes for patios
🧱 Want a custom concrete look in Baton Rouge? Stamped finishes are becoming more popular for patios and walkways — they add style without sacrificing durability.

6. Curing the Concrete

This is the most overlooked part of the process — and arguably the most important.

Curing allows the concrete to reach full strength slowly. It involves keeping the surface moist and protected for several days after the pour. If concrete dries out too fast (especially under our Southern sun), it becomes brittle and more prone to cracks.

Proper curing includes:

  • Covering the surface with plastic or blankets
  • Lightly misting with water
  • Applying a curing compound

We often recommend a minimum 7-day cure depending on the project size and weather.


7. Final Touches and Cleanup

Once the concrete has cured, we remove the forms, clean the area, and inspect the job. We also apply sealant if requested to help protect against stains, water, and wear — especially helpful for driveways and patios.

If the job includes expansion joints, we cut those at this stage to help control cracking over time.


Wrapping It Up: Why the Process Matters


Good concrete work is about more than just pouring — it’s about preparation, timing, technique, and knowing your environment. In Baton Rouge, factors like humidity, drainage, and soil type can impact every step of the process.

At CCW Concrete, we take pride in doing the job right the first time — not rushing through or skipping steps. Whether you’re building something new or replacing an old slab, we’re here to make sure your concrete stands the test of time.

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5 Concrete Maintenance Tips for a Longer-Lasting Surface

April 20, 2025
Concrete is one of the most durable and reliable materials you can build with — but even the toughest surfaces need a little upkeep. In Louisiana, where heat, humidity, and heavy rain are regular guests, a little maintenance can go a long way in keeping your concrete surfaces in Baton Rouge looking clean, safe, and strong for years to come. Whether it’s a driveway, patio, walkway, or slab, here are five simple maintenance tips to help you protect your investment and keep things looking sharp. 1. Clean Your Concrete Regularly It might seem like a no-brainer, but regularly cleaning your concrete driveway or patio can prevent a whole host of problems down the road. Dirt, leaves, mold, and mildew can all break down the surface over time — especially in our hot, damp climate. Use a broom to keep the surface clear and a garden hose or pressure washer (on a low setting) for deeper cleans. If you notice mold or mildew, a mix of water and mild detergent usually does the trick. Pro tip for Baton Rouge homeowners: Avoid using harsh chemicals like bleach or ammonia — they can damage the surface and harm nearby plants. 2. Seal Your Concrete Every Few Years A high-quality concrete sealer adds a protective layer to keep out water, stains, and the kind of surface wear that leads to cracking and discoloration. For concrete surfaces in Louisiana , where weather shifts are real and frequent, sealing is one of the best things you can do to extend the life of your concrete. Most pros recommend resealing every 2–3 years , but this depends on traffic, weather, and surface type. Driveways and high-traffic walkways may need more frequent care. If your concrete looks dull or water no longer beads on the surface — it’s probably time for a fresh coat. 3. Fix Cracks Early (Don’t Wait) Small cracks are common, especially with Louisiana’s shifting soil and frequent rain. But they’re also easy to ignore — and that’s where the trouble starts. A hairline crack might not seem like a big deal now, but it can quickly grow wider and deeper, especially if water gets in and freezes (yes, even down here we get the occasional freeze). This leads to bigger repairs — and higher costs — down the line. Look for: Hairline fractures Gaps around edges Uneven settling Fixing these early with a quality patch or sealant can stop bigger problems in their tracks. And if you’re unsure, call in a local concrete repair expert in Baton Rouge to take a look. 4. Be Mindful of Weight and Impact Concrete is strong — but not indestructible. Heavy vehicles, dropped tools, or sharp impacts can chip, crack, or even break the surface if it’s not reinforced properly. If you’ve got a concrete driveway in Baton Rouge , try to avoid parking oversized trucks or trailers in the same spot every day. Spread out the weight or consider adding reinforcement for long-term use. And if you're using your patio or outdoor space for entertaining, try to avoid dragging furniture — especially metal chairs or grills — across the surface. 5. Watch Out for Standing Water This one is especially important in Southern Louisiana. If water is pooling on your concrete — it’s a red flag. Standing water can break down the surface, seep into small cracks, and speed up erosion from the inside out. If you notice puddles that stick around after rain, it might be a grading issue or a drainage problem. These can often be corrected with a bit of slope adjustment or rework around the edges. Tip from local pros: If your concrete patio or slab in Baton Rouge doesn’t drain well, you’re not alone. It's a common issue in the area, but it’s fixable — and worth addressing before it becomes a bigger headache. Final Thoughts: A Little Care Goes a Long Way Concrete doesn’t need constant attention, but a little bit of upkeep can help it last decades longer. Regular cleaning, sealing, and early crack repair are some of the easiest — and most affordable — ways to protect your property. If you’re not sure where to start, or if your concrete surface is showing signs of wear, we’re here to help. At CCW Concrete , we’ve helped homeowners across Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Prairieville, and Central protect and maintain their concrete with expert service and no-pressure advice.

How to Choose the Right Concrete Contractor in Baton Rouge

April 20, 2025
Concrete work isn’t something most people think about until they need it. But when the time comes to pour a new driveway, build a backyard patio, fix a cracked sidewalk, or lay the foundation for a new structure, choosing the right contractor makes all the difference. In Baton Rouge, where the weather, soil, and drainage can all affect the outcome of a concrete job, it’s especially important to hire someone who knows what they’re doing — and who knows the area. So, how do you find the right concrete contractor in Baton Rouge? Here are some things to keep in mind. 1. Start With Licensing and Insurance This might sound like a boring first step, but it’s essential. A professional concrete company in Baton Rouge should be fully licensed to operate in Louisiana. They should also carry general liability insurance and workers' comp. If they don’t, and something goes wrong, you could be left footing the bill. If you're not sure what to ask, a simple: “Are you licensed and insured in Louisiana?” is a great place to start. Any legitimate contractor will have no problem showing documentation. 2. Check Out Their Local Work Not all concrete is created equal. A smooth, well-finished concrete surface that drains properly and stands up to Louisiana’s heat and humidity takes experience and skill. Ask to see photos of past projects — or better yet, ask for nearby addresses where you can see their work in person. Look for: Crisp, clean edges Consistent finish Minimal cracking (some hairline cracks are normal) Drainage that moves water away from the home A contractor who’s been working locally will understand the Baton Rouge climate , soil types, and how to handle water runoff — all things that matter more than you might expect. 3. Ask About Their Process A good concrete contractor in Louisiana should be able to walk you through their process from start to finish. That includes: Site prep and grading Forming and reinforcement Mix selection (concrete isn't one-size-fits-all) Pouring and finishing Curing and sealing If a contractor glosses over these steps or uses vague language like “we’ll take care of it all,” that’s usually not a great sign. Be direct and ask questions. You don’t need to know everything about concrete — that’s their job — but you should feel confident that they do. 4. Read Local Reviews and Ask Around Reviews can be helpful, but not all of them tell the full story. If you’re looking for a trusted concrete contractor in Baton Rouge , start by checking: Google Reviews Facebook Recommendations Local forums like Nextdoor Neighborhood Facebook groups Even better? Ask your neighbors. If someone just had a concrete driveway or patio installed, they’ll likely be happy to share their experience (good or bad). Word of mouth still matters in South Louisiana — and it can give you a clearer picture than reviews alone. 5. Pay Attention to Communication You can learn a lot about a contractor based on how they communicate. Do they return calls? Show up on time for estimates? Take the time to explain things? That level of professionalism is usually a reflection of how they’ll treat your project. At CCW Concrete , we believe communication is just as important as craftsmanship. If something changes, you’ll hear from us — not be left guessing. 6. Understand What You're Paying For The lowest quote isn’t always the best deal. We’ve seen too many jobs around Baton Rouge where homeowners went with a cut-rate contractor only to deal with cracking, sinking, or drainage issues later. Concrete work is an investment. It should be built to last, especially with the heat, humidity, and shifting soils we deal with in Louisiana. A good contractor will give you a detailed quote that explains: Materials Labor Timeline Warranty or guarantees If everything seems too vague or too cheap, don’t be afraid to walk away. 7. Ask About Cleanup and Sealing Some folks don’t think about the end of the job, but cleanup and sealing are important parts of the process. Will they remove all the forms, debris, and waste materials? Do they offer sealing to protect the surface from stains, weather, and wear? Concrete sealing, in particular, is key if you want a longer-lasting, better-looking finish — especially for concrete patios and decorative driveways . Final Thoughts: Take Your Time and Ask Questions Hiring a concrete contractor isn’t something you do every day. Take your time, ask plenty of questions, and trust your gut. Look for someone who’s transparent, professional, and experienced — and who’s worked on projects similar to yours. At CCW Concrete , we’ve served homeowners and businesses throughout Baton Rouge, Denham Springs, Prairieville, and beyond . Whether it’s a small repair or a full-scale concrete pour, we treat every job like it matters — because it does. If you’re starting a concrete project and want local insight, skilled craftsmanship, and honest communication, we’d love to talk. Give us a call or shoot us a message anytime.