Frequently Asked Questions

  • What's the best concrete mix for garage floors?

    High-psi concrete mixes with steel reinforcement provide the strength needed for vehicle loads, tools, and workshop traffic. At Rocktown Construction, we use durable blends and trowel finishes to create smooth, long-lasting garage floors designed for heavy use in Bridgewater and surrounding areas.
  • How does a vapor barrier prevent garage floor moisture?

    A vapor barrier placed beneath the concrete blocks ground moisture from rising through the slab, preventing dampness and surface deterioration. Proper joint placement and subgrade prep further reduce cracking issues common in the Shenandoah Valley's seasonal climate.
  • Why should garage floors slope toward the door?

    Sloping the floor toward the garage door improves drainage by guiding water, melted snow, and spills out of the space. At Rocktown Construction, we include slope adjustments during leveling to enhance functionality and keep your garage cleaner year-round.
  • What causes concrete driveways to crack in Virginia?

    Freeze–thaw cycles, poor base preparation, and inadequate drainage are leading causes of driveway cracking. Proper grading, consistent thickness, and expansion joints help ensure long-term durability in Bridgewater's variable weather conditions.
  • When should you replace a cracked garage floor?

    Replace a garage floor when cracks widen, the surface becomes uneven, or moisture intrusion becomes frequent. At Rocktown Construction, we assess subgrade stability and install reinforced slabs designed to handle vehicle loads and workshop use for decades.
  • How do you prepare the subgrade for concrete?

    Subgrade prep involves grading, compaction, and leveling to create a stable base that prevents settling and cracking. Rocktown Construction uses thorough site prep techniques to ensure concrete slabs, garage floors, and driveways perform reliably in Bridgewater's soil conditions.
  • What's the difference between broom and trowel finishes?

    Broom finishes provide texture and slip resistance, ideal for outdoor surfaces like driveways and walkways. Trowel finishes create smooth, polished surfaces suitable for garage floors and indoor slabs. Both options deliver durability and can be tailored to your project needs.
  • Can concrete withstand freeze-thaw cycles in Bridgewater?

    Yes, when properly mixed, reinforced, and cured, concrete performs well through seasonal freeze–thaw cycles. At Rocktown Construction, we use high-strength mixes and precision forming designed specifically for the Shenandoah Valley's climate variations.
  • What affects the cost of a new garage floor?

    Size, thickness, reinforcement type, finish choice, and site preparation complexity all influence cost. Additional factors include vapor barrier installation and slope adjustments. Rocktown Construction evaluates each project individually to provide accurate quotes for Bridgewater homeowners.
  • How thick should a concrete garage floor be?

    Most residential garage floors are four to six inches thick, with steel reinforcement added for heavier vehicle loads and workshop use. Rocktown Construction determines the ideal thickness based on your garage's intended use and local soil conditions in the Valley.
  • What's the biggest mistake with concrete garage installs?

    Skipping proper subgrade compaction and drainage planning leads to settling, cracking, and moisture problems. At Rocktown Construction, we prioritize thorough base prep and vapor barriers to ensure garage floors stay level and dry for years.
  • How long does a concrete garage floor last?

    A well-installed concrete garage floor can last 30 years or more with minimal maintenance. Proper reinforcement, high-psi mixes, and moisture control extend lifespan significantly. Rocktown Construction builds garage floors in Bridgewater designed for long-term durability and heavy use.