Frequently Asked Questions

A collection of most frequently asked questions from homeowners like you.

How long does the concrete landscaping process take from start to end?

The time frame for a Artevia Placing Services to bring your vision to reality is highly dependant on the complexities of the specific project. For smaller and simpler work, 1-2 weeks from excavation to completion is possible, more complex or larger projects can of course take significantly more time. With an in-person review of your property and desires, an Artevia Placing Services representative can give you a good estimate of the project timeline to expect.

How does the cost of a decorative concrete driveway compare to asphalt driveway?

Dollar for dollar, the up front costs of placing and finishing concrete is more expensive than asphalt.

However, concrete will save your piggy bank long term through the very little maintenance and upkeep it requires, with concrete lasting for years longer than other pavement materials.

Artevia Placing Services also offers designs and colour palettes for homeowners well beyond that possible using asphalt.

Will the in-home consultant offer design assistance?

While our Artevia Placing Services representatives are experts on decorative concrete, they are not certified landscape architects. If this is the level of design expertise that you require for your project in its entirety, it is best to contact someone who is a landscape architect by trade. If upon consultation the scope of your project would benefit from a landscape architect, we will be happy to assist you in finding someone to work with.

Within the in-home consultation, we will take you through everything you will experience in the process, obtain all your intricate project needs and offer advice based on our simplified product offering matched with your personalized style you are trying to achieve.

Is Artevia a new decorative concrete?

Decorative concrete has become increasing popular as an exterior design material in Canada, especially with the home renovation boom in the last few years.

It is an ideal way to accent your home and enhance for either the resale value or for long-term enjoyment, as it extends your living space significantly; creating a place for entertainment or pleasure.

Can I place concrete myself?

Good and attractive decorative concrete requires specialized training and craftsmanship, which only comes from years of experience, as well as the integral knowledge of a specific concrete mix design. With Artevia Placing Services, you get both – expert installation backed by the product quality of Lafarge concrete.

Our crews follow strict guidelines as outlined by the Ready-mix Concrete Association of Canada (RMCAO) and the Canadian Standards Association (CSA). These guidelines are enforced on every single job.

I’ve often heard that concrete is susceptible to cracks, is this true?

Concrete placed according to our practices on a well-prepared sub-base and appropriate control joints will minimize the risk of cracking. Artevia products are concretes that are highly resistant to wear, extreme heat and freeze/thaw cycles. However, despite all precautions, shrinkage cracking may appear even in the highest quality work as they are inherent to concrete.

What is the appropriate thickness for my patio or driveway?

Part of the beauty in offering an in-home consultation is we are able to capture all of the specific details about your project and survey your home first hand — at which point, we will be able to determine the thickness required for the application.

Driveway applications typically will require a larger slab thickness of 5 or 6 inches to address vehicle traffic and weight distribution, whereas walkways or less traffic areas require approximately 4 to 5 inches, or as a standard specified by your local building code.

How do I maintain Artevia surfaces?

The Artevia collection has been developed for easy maintenance. No special products are required: hose or pressure-washer will suffice.

Artevia surfaces are also highly durable and resistant to temperature variations. We generally do, however, recommend the application of a protective sealant every three years to preserve the original sheen of your surfaces.

What is the next available project booking date?

We strive to minimize the waiting period to begin physically your project. Nevertheless, availability is highly dependent on the season, an Artevia Placing Services representative can give you a good estimate on any wait time during an in-house consultation. Please also be aware that project start dates are weather dependent (i.e. rain, temperature, etc).