Concrete Services
Quality concrete work for driveways, patios, sidewalks, and more.
Professional Concrete Services in Central Iowa
Quality concrete work adds both functionality and curb appeal to your property. Smart Home Exteriors provides professional concrete services for residential projects, from new driveways and patios to repairs and replacements. Our work is built to last through Iowa's freeze-thaw cycles.
Benefits
- Durable, long-lasting results
- Improved curb appeal
- Increased property value
- Safe, level walking surfaces
- Customizable finishes and colors
What We Offer
Driveways
Patios
Sidewalks
Steps & porches
Garage floors
Concrete repair
Stamped concrete
Colored concrete options
Our Process
We make concrete services simple with a straightforward, customer-focused approach.
1
Site Evaluation
We assess your project area and discuss options.
2
Preparation
Proper excavation and base preparation for longevity.
3
Professional Pouring
Professional installation with quality concrete.
4
Finishing
Your choice of finish for the perfect look.
Concrete Services Throughout Central Iowa
We provide concrete services across Polk and Dallas counties.
Des MoinesAnkenyAltoonaJohnstonPleasant HillWindsor HeightsBondurantCarlisle
View Full Service Area Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about concrete services in central Iowa.
How much does a concrete driveway cost in Des Moines?
Concrete driveway costs in Polk and Dallas counties typically run $8-$15 per square foot for standard finishes. A typical two-car driveway (400-600 square feet) costs $4,000-$8,000. Stamped or colored concrete adds $3-$8 per square foot. We provide detailed quotes after assessing your specific site conditions.
How long does concrete last in Iowa's climate?
Quality concrete properly installed and sealed lasts 25-30+ years in Iowa. Our freeze-thaw cycles are tough on concrete, so proper base preparation, air entrainment, and regular sealing are critical. We use concrete mixes designed for Iowa weather and ensure proper drainage to maximize lifespan.
What causes concrete to crack in Iowa?
Iowa's freeze-thaw cycles are the main culprit—water seeps in, freezes, expands, and cracks concrete. Poor base preparation, inadequate control joints, and improper curing also contribute. We prepare proper gravel bases, use reinforcement where needed, and cut control joints to minimize cracking.
When is the best time to pour concrete in Iowa?
Late spring through early fall when temperatures stay consistently above 50°F offers ideal conditions. Concrete needs proper curing time without freezing. We pour from April through October in central Iowa. Fall pours work well—cooler temps mean slower, stronger curing.
How long until I can use my new driveway?
You can typically walk on new concrete after 24-48 hours. Light vehicle traffic is safe after 7 days. Full cure takes 28 days—we recommend waiting that long before heavy vehicles or equipment. We'll give you specific timelines based on weather conditions.
Should I seal my concrete in Iowa?
Absolutely. Sealing protects against water penetration, freeze-thaw damage, salt damage, and staining. We recommend sealing new concrete after 30 days, then resealing every 2-3 years. Sealed concrete in Des Moines and surrounding areas can last significantly longer than unsealed concrete.
What's the difference between stamped and regular concrete?
Stamped concrete is imprinted with patterns while still wet, creating textures that mimic stone, brick, slate, or wood. It's colored with integral color or surface stains. Stamped concrete costs more than standard broom-finish but offers dramatic visual appeal—popular for patios throughout West Des Moines and Waukee.
Can you repair cracked concrete instead of replacing it?
Minor cracks can be filled and sealed to prevent further damage. However, severely cracked, heaved, or sunken concrete usually needs replacement. We assess whether repair makes sense or if replacement is more cost-effective long-term. Honest assessments save you money.
Do you remove old concrete?
Yes, removal and haul-away is included in our replacement quotes. We break up old concrete, remove it, prepare the base properly, and pour new concrete. The base preparation step is critical—skipping it leads to premature failure.
What concrete finishes do you offer?
We offer broom finish (standard textured), smooth trowel finish, exposed aggregate (decorative stones visible), stamped patterns, and colored concrete. Each has different aesthetics, maintenance needs, and slip resistance. We help you choose based on application and preferences.
How do you prevent new concrete from cracking?
We use proper techniques: adequate base preparation with compacted gravel, reinforcement with rebar or fiber mesh, appropriate concrete mix with air entrainment for Iowa weather, proper control joint placement, and correct curing procedures. Quality installation prevents most cracking issues.
Other Services
Explore our complete range of exterior home services.
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