Clean Concrete Finishes Built to Last
Valencia Landscape installs concrete patios, walkways, and outdoor flatwork for homes in Northern Colorado.
If you’re adding a patio, walkway, or outdoor gathering area to your property in Fort Collins and surrounding areas, concrete provides a durable, low-maintenance surface that stands up to foot traffic, weather, and outdoor furniture year after year. Concrete patios create clean, functional spaces for seating, grilling, and entertaining, while sidewalks and walkways offer reliable access between entrances and outdoor areas. These surfaces are designed to perform well in Northern Colorado’s changing weather and require minimal upkeep once installed.
Valencia Landscape installs concrete patios, walkways, and outdoor surfaces with proper base preparation to reduce cracking and settling over time. The installation process includes excavating the area, compacting a stable gravel base, and building forms to ensure consistent thickness and clean edges. Reinforcement such as rebar or wire mesh is added for strength, and control joints are placed to manage natural expansion and contraction as temperatures change. For homeowners who want added visual detail, stamped concrete is available to replicate stone or pattern textures while maintaining the durability of concrete.
Once complete, concrete surfaces provide a flat, stable foundation that drains properly and stays usable through every season. Patios create defined outdoor living areas, walkways reduce mud and erosion, and gathering spaces like firepit areas benefit from a solid surface built for long-term use.
If you’re planning a concrete project for your home, contact Valencia Landscape to request a consultation.
Why Base Prep Matters for Concrete Longevity
Installation begins with site preparation, which includes removing old concrete or sod, grading the area to direct water away from your foundation, and compacting a four to six inch gravel base. In Northern Colorado, soil movement caused by freeze-thaw cycles can lead to cracking or settling if the base isn’t properly prepared, so careful compaction is essential. Forms are built around the perimeter to shape the slab, and rebar or wire mesh is installed to reinforce the concrete and reduce the risk of large cracks.
Once the concrete is poured and finished, you’ll have a smooth, level surface with a broom texture that improves traction and blends well with residential outdoor spaces. Proper finishing allows the surface to drain correctly and remain stable through seasonal temperature changes. Plain concrete patios and walkways require very little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning and are built for long-term durability.
Concrete work is often part of a larger outdoor improvement project and may be coordinated with grading or other site work as needed. The service includes excavation, base preparation, forming, pouring, and finishing. Landscaping, drainage systems, or decorative features are not included unless specified. Larger slabs may require control joints or additional reinforcement depending on their size and intended use.
Questions About Concrete Before You Commit
Homeowners in Fort Collins and beyond typically want to know what finishes are available, how long concrete takes to cure, and whether old concrete needs to be removed before new work can begin.
What is the difference between washed and exposed aggregate concrete?
Washed concrete has a smooth finish with minimal texture, while exposed aggregate is treated to reveal the stones in the mix, creating a decorative, slip-resistant surface. Both are durable and low-maintenance.
How long does concrete take to cure?
Concrete reaches initial strength in about seven days, but it continues to cure and harden for up to thirty days. You can walk on it after twenty-four hours, but heavy furniture or vehicles should wait at least a week.
Will concrete crack over time?
All concrete develops small cracks as it cures and expands with temperature changes. Control joints are cut into the slab to control where cracks form and keep them from spreading across the surface.
Do you need to remove old concrete before pouring new?
Yes, old concrete is typically removed so the base can be properly compacted and graded. Pouring new concrete over damaged or uneven slabs leads to cracking and drainage problems.
Can concrete be installed in freezing temperatures?
Concrete should not be poured when temperatures drop below forty degrees, as cold weather slows curing and weakens the final slab. Most concrete work in Johnstown is completed between late spring and early fall.
If you're adding a patio, walkway, or outdoor surface to your Johnstown property and want a durable finish that complements your landscape, Valencia Landscape can install washed or exposed aggregate concrete with proper base prep and reinforcement. Reach out today to request a consultation.