Concrete is everywhere. It covers driveways, makes up patios, forms the strong base of most homes in Franklin. But not all concrete is created equal. If you think laying new concrete is as easy as calling the first name you see online, you might want to pause. Getting concrete Franklin TN jobs done right takes planning, local know-how, and sometimes, a bit of repair work.
The biggest complaint I hear from homeowners: “Our new driveway cracked within a year.” That is a common issue. I think most people do not realize Tennessee weather is tough on concrete. The ground freezes and thaws, and it rains a lot, especially in spring. This kind of stress tests every slab.
Common Concrete Projects in Franklin
The main uses for concrete Franklin TN are:
- Driveways
- Sidewalks
- Patios
- Garage floors
- Basements and footings
Each one comes with its own challenges. Driveways crack under the weight of trucks or repeated freezing. Sidewalks shift and create tripping hazards. Patios may stay level or tilt if water drains poorly.
Why Concrete Fails in Franklin
More often than not, failure comes from rushing. The contractor pours concrete when the ground is too wet, or it does not compact the soil underneath enough. A friend of mine learned that lesson the hard way. His patio had a dip in the middle after one winter. The installer blamed the weather, but it was clear the ground was not compacted.
Cracks are normal , up to a point. Concrete shrinks as it cures. You will see small cracks, but big splits or lifted areas are trouble.
Not every crack is the concrete’s fault. Sometimes, it is about the soil underneath or water that never drains.
Best Practices for Pouring Concrete
If you are planning a new pour, here are a few tips:
- Make sure the soil is stable and well-packed before any concrete is poured.
- Avoid pouring on rainy days or when the ground is still soggy.
- Request control joints. These guide where cracks will happen and help keep them straight.
- Use the right mix. Ask about air-entrained mixes for freeze-thaw protection.
Many concrete Franklin TN jobs fail because of shortcuts. The difference is not always visible at first glance.
Repairing Concrete in Franklin
Older homes eventually show wear. Driveways split, sidewalks get dangerous, and patios collect water. Not every case is an emergency, but some need quick fixes.
Here are a few solutions:
| Problem | Repair |
|---|---|
| Hairline cracks | Epoxy or flexible filler |
| Sunken slabs | Slabjacking (lifting with grout or foam) |
| Missing chunks | Patch with new mix, often does not look perfect |
| Exposed rebar or deep cracks | Full section replacement |
Repairs rarely restore an area to “like new.” The color often does not match the original. That is normal.
Sometimes patching a slab is more expensive than replacing it. Always get more than one quote.
Who Should Handle Your Concrete Work?
Hiring the right crew is worth the hassle. Concrete looks simple, but anyone can make a mess. Good companies will show up on time, answer questions, and not push you to sign a contract right away.
Ask about:
- Their process for site prep
- Warranties (if any)
- How long you should stay off the new surface
- Experience with your exact job type
A friend in Franklin got a quote $1000 less than the rest. The job was almost right , but the lack of joint cuts soon showed, with crooked cracks running across the driveway.