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Sanctuary School & Studio
Welcome to our School & Studio! Where you can Learn "how It's Done" and pick out options via our studio below within the sub service you have selected to view:
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School: Knowledge on how the sub-service is done.
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Studio: Options on all materials/colors for selected sub-service.
Hardscaping
Concrete
What is Concrete?
(In Hardscaping Applications)
- Concrete is an essential material for hardscaping projects throughout Orange County, providing a durable and versatile foundation for a variety of outdoor features. This composite material, made from a mixture of cement, aggregates (such as sand and gravel), and water, is known for its strength and ability to withstand the elements. In Orange County landscapes, concrete is commonly used for patios, walkways, driveways, and pool decks,. Its versatility extends to various finishes, including stamped concrete, which can mimic the look of brick or stone, and exposed aggregate, which offers a textured, non-slip surface. Whether you're creating a new patio in Irvine or a winding walkway in Laguna Beach, Sanctuary Design & Build can provide expert concrete hardscaping solutions tailored to your Orange County project.
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School
Our official "How It's Done" section to help educate our clients to understand our industry leading installation process!​​
Course: HOW IS CONCRETE INSTALLED?
Process - Concrete Surfaces
Discover our step by step guide on how we bring your hardscape projects to life. Unless otherwise stated in your contract, all installations pertaining to Concrete are performed in the exact outlined method!
Phase 1: Demolition & Prep
The demolition and base preparation stage involves carefully removing any existing structures or materials to create a clean slate for new concrete. This process ensures that the ground is properly leveled and compacted providing a solid foundation for the concrete to be poured.
Phase 2: Base Installation
After proper foundation prep is complete, we will then install LEVEL 2 Gravel consisting of very small to medium sized gravel pieces to provide ample foundational support per standards of workmanship. This base will be approx. 1" for residential to support a level surface for the concrete to be poured. (As needed only, performed only if our crew needs to do this to perform the install correctly)
Phase 3: Forming
To prepare for pouring concrete, creating a sturdy frame that outlines the perimeter of the slab is crucial. Typically, wooden boards are cut to size and secured together to form the desired shape and dimensions. frame is then anchored in place using stakes driven into the ground, ensuring it remains stable during the pouring process. This careful preparation helps achieve a smooth, even surface and defines the boundaries the concrete slab.
Phase 4: Rebar Grid Install
Before pouring concrete, 24" grid rebar is strategically placed to create a strong foundation, providing essential rigidity and structural strength. The rebar is positioned at specified intervals, ensuring that the concrete bonds effectively, resulting in a durable and stable finished product.
Phase 5: Concrete Pouring
Once ready, the concrete is mixed to the desired consistency and poured into the forms, starting at one end and working towards the other, ensuring an even distribution. As the concrete fills the forms, it's essential to use a vibrator or a tamper to eliminate air pockets and ensure proper compaction before finishing the surface.
Phase 6.1: Finishing & Scoring
(APPLIED ONLY FOR CONCRETE FINISH & SCORING CONTRACTS, see Phase 6.2 for stamping)
Upon completion of the concrete pour our crew will now begin to apply the final surface texture of SAND/BROOM finish and add any scoring lines picked as part of the contract.
Phase 6.2: Stamping
(APPLIED ONLY FOR CONCRETE STAMPING CONTRACTS, see Phase 6.1 for Surface finish & Scoring)
Upon completion of the concrete pour our crew will now begin to apply the final surface texture of stamping finish and add any scoring lines picked as part of the contract.
Phase 7: Curing
Congratulations, your new concrete surface is now completed. Now here comes arguably one of the most important phases which is proper curing. A curing agent will be added to the concrete as needed. Concrete takes 28 days to FULLY cure, it is imperative that during this stage no major stains (like oil) enter the concrete mix and care is taken while using the surface. After approx. 48 hours you can begin using the surface with foot traffic and 7 days for vehicles.
Phase 8: Sealing
(OPTIONAL PHASE)
In some instances when noted by our team sealing is recommended such as for concrete surfaces with dark color that has been added, particular stamping pattern, and driveway spaces. However almost always sealing is a good choice as it adds longevity to the concrete in terms of appearance, moisture protection, and stain resistance.
Additional Information -
Concrete
Information on Concrete Rebar
- Rebar serves as the "skeleton" of residential concrete, providing vital strength and stability. Its ridged surface enhances bonding with concrete, improving load distribution and reducing cracks.
- Note that the rebar for a concrete pad, patio, pool deck, etc... is typically (unless stated otherwise on your agreement) laid 24" on center and spaced 4-6" away from the formed parameter.
- In some instances, where the thickness of the concrete demands it, the rebar grid will be stacked as multiple layers or risers will be used to accommodate the increased height (or thickness) of the concrete.
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Studio
Our Official Studio will guide you through all options we carry within the selected category to expertly guide you in your decision making process!
Studio Display: Our Options of Concrete Applications!
Let's Pick Out Your Concrete!
Deciding on your new concrete is easy as 1, 2, 3.
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First pick out your finish style below
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Pick your score pattern
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Lastly pick your color
1. Finish Selection
Select a finish style below via either the stamped finish or broom / sand finish options shown.
Stamped Finish
Broom / Sand Finish
2. Grid Selection
Select a grid from the displays below, if you have a specific design request please feel free to ask your representative for a custom quote!
3. Color Selection
Please select a color from the list below, custom colors can be requested from your representative!
