Driveways
A standard concrete driveway typically takes about 2 to 3 days to complete. This includes site preparation, forming the area with wooden frames, pouring the concrete, and finishing it with a smooth surface or decorative texture. The curing period is also an important part of the timeline. While the driveway can be walked on after about 24 to 48 hours, it should not be driven on for at least 7 days. Full curing takes around 28 days. If the driveway includes features like colored concrete, stamping, or borders, the overall time could increase by an additional day or two.
Patios
Concrete patios usually take between 1 to 3 days to install, depending on size and design complexity. A basic patio may be completed in just one day, while larger patios or those with design elements such as curves, built-in seating, or decorative surfaces may take longer. Like driveways, patios need time to cure properly. Foot traffic is typically allowed after 2 days, but placing heavy furniture or grills should be avoided for at least 7 days. If sealing is added to protect against weather and stains, that process adds at least one more day to the job.
Sidewalks
Small sidewalk projects may only require one day for installation. The process includes excavation, forming, pouring, and finishing the surface. However, sidewalks that stretch longer distances, include multiple access points, or require adjustments for slopes and drainage may take 2 to 3 days to complete. Curing is essential to maintain strength, so while walking on the surface may be safe after 1 to 2 days, full strength is achieved after 7 to 10 days. In areas with extreme weather, extra care and possibly longer curing periods are needed.
Garage Floors
Concrete garage floors are typically poured over one to two days, depending on the condition of the base layer. Preparation work includes removing old concrete (if present), leveling the soil or gravel base, and ensuring proper drainage. After pouring, the surface is smoothed and leveled. While light foot traffic may be allowed after 2 days, cars should not be parked in the garage for at least 7 days. Like other concrete surfaces, a full cure takes 28 days. Adding a top coat or sealant for oil and stain protection may extend the timeline slightly.
Foundations
Concrete foundations are a critical part of building construction and typically take 1 to 2 weeks to complete. A simple slab foundation without walls may only take 3 to 5 days, while full foundations with footings, stem walls, rebar reinforcement, and moisture barriers may require significantly more time. The process includes excavation, forming, pouring footings, setting rebar, and pouring walls. Once poured, the foundation must cure for several days before additional construction (like framing) can begin. Wet or cold weather can delay the curing process and extend the timeline.
Stamped or Decorative Concrete
Stamped or decorative concrete involves additional steps beyond standard pours. After the concrete is poured and leveled, stamping tools are used to create patterns that mimic stone, brick, tile, or wood. This must be done during a specific time window while the concrete is still soft. Once the stamping is finished, color hardeners or stains may be applied to enhance the visual effect. Afterward, a sealer is used to protect the surface. The entire process usually takes 3 to 5 days, depending on size and design. Complex or multi-color designs may take up to a week.
Concrete Repairs
Concrete repairs vary widely in duration based on the type of damage and repair method. Small crack fillings or surface patching can often be done in a single day, especially with fast-drying materials. However, deeper damage that requires removal and re-pouring can stretch the job to 2 or even 4 days. Surface leveling, grinding, or resurfacing may also take multiple visits depending on curing times and weather. Structural repairs, such as those to foundations or load-bearing slabs, are more intensive and can take a week or longer, especially if inspections or permits are involved.
Retaining Walls and Concrete Steps
Building retaining walls or concrete steps often takes 3 to 7 days. These structures require precise measurement, strong reinforcement, and careful layering. The formwork is usually more complex, and in some cases, masonry work is combined with the concrete pour. Steps must be shaped and smoothed to ensure safety and proper rise/run ratio. Curing times are similar to other concrete jobs — light use after a few days, full strength after 28 days.
Weather and Environmental Factors
Timelines can be heavily influenced by the environment. Cold weather may require heaters or insulation blankets to help concrete cure properly, while extreme heat may necessitate additives or wet coverings to prevent cracking. Rain can delay pours entirely or require extra finishing steps. Always plan for possible delays when scheduling outdoor concrete work.
Permits and Inspections
Some jobs — especially foundations, retaining walls, or large commercial projects — may require city or county permits and inspections. These steps can add days or even weeks to a project’s total timeline, depending on local regulations and scheduling availability.
Overview
Concrete job timelines vary depending on the type of work, complexity, weather conditions, and size of the project. While some jobs like sidewalks or patios may take only a day or two, larger jobs like foundations or decorative projects require a week or more. Curing time is also a key factor — while surfaces may look finished quickly, full strength takes about 28 days. Planning ahead and working with experienced professionals can help ensure your concrete project stays on schedule and delivers long-lasting results.
