How OkCrete Pours Concrete That Lasts
The standards, specs and six-step process behind every OKCrete driveway, patio and slab since 2012
Oklahoma Concrete
About OKCrete
OKCrete started in September 2012 with a simple goal: set the standard for concrete in Oklahoma, and teach homeowners what to look for before they sign a contract. Today we have offices in Tulsa and Oklahoma City, and everything we learn through research and training goes straight into how we build.
Our customers come away understanding industry standards, so they can compare any bid, including ours, and decide with confidence.
Our Standard Specs
- Utility locating through OKIE811
- Soil density testing
- Mechanical or chemical soil modification when required
- Base modification by compaction
- Structural aggregate base (ODOT spec)
- Rebar sized to the application, tied 100%
- Curing compound on every pour
- Admixtures per the project’s contract
The Difference You Can't See
The Water-to-Cement Ratio: 1 Gallon Added vs. 6–9
The more water in concrete, the weaker it gets. Many crews add extra water to make concrete easier to pour and finish, and it quietly cuts strength by up to half. We add one gallon of water per cubic yard, just a 4.5% strength reduction, while competitors add 6–9.
OKCrete
1 gallon
Adds 1 gallon of water per cubic yard
~4.5%
strength reduction
Typical Crew
6–9 gallons
Adds 6–9 gallons of water per cubic yard
25–50%
strength reduction
OKCrete vs. Competitors
Water Added to Concrete
OKCrete
1 gallon per cubic yard; ~4.5% strength reduction.
Typical Crew
6–9 gallons per cubic yard; 25–50% strength reduction.
Excavation Depth
OKCrete
~7 inches below grade; removes concrete and 2–3 inches of soil.
Typical Crew
Minimal excavation or pours on existing ground.
Base Preparation
OKCrete
Compacted native soil and wetted, compacted RCA base.
Typical Crew
Sand or concrete placed directly on soil.
Rebar Type & Spacing
OKCrete
3/8-inch (#3) steel rebar, 18 inches on center both ways.
Typical Crew
Light wire mesh or no reinforcement.
Rebar Placement
OKCrete
Supported on chairs within the slab.
Typical Crew
Rebar on the ground or sinking during pouring.
Concrete Thickness
OKCrete
True 4-inch slab.
Typical Crew
2×4 forms giving approximately 3.5 inches.
Concrete Strength
OKCrete
4,000 PSI.
Typical Crew
Lower PSI mixes.
Finish & Curing
OKCrete
Light broom finish and curing compound.
Typical Crew
Typically no curing compound.
01: Planning & Preparation
Every successful concrete project starts with careful planning and proper site preparation. Before work begins, utility lines are located, and the area is excavated to about 7 inches below grade, removing old concrete and 2–3 inches of soil. All organic material—such as roots, wood, and debris—is removed to prevent future settling or voids beneath the slab. Taking the time to prepare the site correctly helps ensure long-term durability and prevents costly issues later.
02: Site Preparation
A stable foundation is critical to the performance of concrete. The subgrade and aggregate base are properly compacted to prevent settling and uneven slab thickness. A compacted RCA (recycled concrete aggregate) base provides strength and load distribution, while proper slope is established to direct water away from structures. Thoughtful drainage planning improves safety, usability, and long-term performance.
03: Forms, Thickness & Expansion Joints
Concrete forms define the shape, slope, and thickness of the slab and are securely staked in place for accuracy. For most residential projects such as driveways, walkways, and patios, we pour a true 4-inch slab, not the 3.5 inches a 2×4 form gives you, at 4,000 PSI. Thicker pours are used where heavier loads are expected. Expansion joints are installed wherever new concrete meets existing structures, allowing the slab to expand and contract naturally without cracking or damage.
04: Placing & Consolidation
Concrete placement is carefully coordinated to ensure consistency and strength. The concrete is poured continuously and placed as close as possible to its final position, rather than being dumped in piles and reworked. Proper consolidation, often using vibration, removes trapped air and allows the concrete to flow evenly within the forms and around reinforcement, resulting in a stronger, more durable slab.
05. Finishing & Jointing
Once placed, the concrete is leveled and finished to achieve the desired appearance and performance. Screeding and floating remove surface imperfections and embed aggregate just below the surface. Control joints are added to manage natural cracking by creating planned relief points. Finishing options may include smooth, broomed, or decorative surfaces, depending on the project’s needs and design.
06. Curing & Protection
Curing is one of the most important steps in concrete construction, allowing the concrete to gain strength through proper hydration. The surface must be kept moist and protected for several days after placement to prevent premature drying. Special care is taken in extreme weather conditions, as excessive heat or cold can weaken the concrete if not properly managed. Proper curing ensures durability, strength, and long-lasting performance. We apply a curing compound on every pour.
OKCRETE CONCRETE SOLUTIONS
ACI Protocols on Every Project
Every OKCrete job follows American Concrete Institute protocols. That means reinforcement sized and placed for the load, a mix design adjusted for Oklahoma temperature and humidity, proper control-joint spacing and curing that lets the slab reach full design strength. It’s the same standard on a sidewalk as on a commercial foundation.
OKCRETE PROCESS
Extreme Weather Considerations
- Avoid placing or curing concrete in freezing conditions whenever possible.
- Fresh concrete should be kept above 35°F during the curing period.
- In hot weather, protect new concrete from rapid moisture loss caused by evaporation.
- Membrane curing compounds alone do not provide warmth in cold conditions.
- In temperatures at or below 32°F, proper insulation or supplemental heating is required to maintain strength development.
OKCRETE PROCESS
Curing Mistakes to Avoid
- Do not allow the concrete surface to dry too quickly.
- Avoid curing shortcuts that reduce moisture retention.
- Rapid drying stops the hydration process, resulting in a weak surface prone to scaling and damage.
CONCRETE SURFACES
Colored Concrete Tips
- Proper curing is especially important for colored concrete to ensure even color development.
- Protect colored surfaces from uneven drying and extreme temperatures during the curing phase.
CONCRETE SURFACES
Sealing & Surface Protection
- Water-repellent sealers can help protect concrete from freeze/thaw cycles and deicing chemicals.
- Sealers prevent moisture from penetrating surface pores.
- Newly cured concrete should be allowed to air-dry fully before sealing.
- Always follow the sealant manufacturer’s application guidelines.
OKCRETE PROCESS
First Winter Care
- Do not use salt or chemical deicers during the first winter after installation.
- Use sand for traction instead of salt.
- Even small amounts of salt — including residue carried on vehicles — can cause surface scaling.
- Fertilizers should never be used as deicers at any time.
Our Warranty
Every residential and commercial project comes with clear, written warranty terms. If something isn’t right, we make it right.
Our Clients Love Us
and so will you
Projects to date
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Happy Customers
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5 Star Reviews
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We are extremely pleased with OKCrete’s work widening our driveway and extending the back patio!
“Fischer, Dexter and their team were extraordinarily polite, professional and punctual. They went out of their way to make these additions happen within our budget and timeframe. We will absolutely be using them again for other outside additions (pergola, etc.) and highly recommend their team for any concrete needs!”
Emily Lovell
OkCrete did a great job on our concrete project.
“Juan and Zack were very professional and attentive during the entire process. They followed up consistently to ensure we were satisfied with the progress and final results. I’d recommend them for all your concrete needs.”
Andrew Oyler
Okcrete was the best decision I made for a my new double driveway.
“From beginning to end, they were professional, artistic, understanding and affordable. Kevin, Nick and their crew went above and beyond to give me the driveway of my dreams, digging out and hauling away an old tree stump, creating beautiful curves, new stairs and a show stopping diamond cut. I would definitely use them again and encourage anyone interested in a new driveway to call them immediately.”
Leslie Morgan
There is a reason why they are the best and why I went with them and for the future!
“When mistakes are made they make sure things are done right. The first pour did not go as planned and basically had to rip it out and replace. Some companies would say that's good enough but not them. They jumped right on it very quickly and replaced it! Wow! Me and my wife are very pleased with the result. I will recommend them to anyone that ask who did my concrete work for my patio expansion.”
Ken Anderson
OKCrete did an amazing job helping us with our addition.
“They are very knowledgeable about their product. They communicated well and showed up on time as planned. Very friendly and professional to work with and most importantly they poured high quality concrete. They have very high integrity as they cleaned up, professional and affordable service.”
Lisa Andrews
The Perfect Combination of Extensive Industry Experience and Accessibility
“The crew was friendly, professional, and knowledgeable regarding all aspects of the build-out. I would not hesitate in any way to recommend them and envision working with them again in the future as my business continues to expand. I believe they have the perfect combination of extensive industry experience and the accessibility of a local business.”
Patri Marconi
OKCRETE CAN
See the Difference on Your Project
Get a free, itemized estimate, and we’ll walk you through exactly how your concrete will be built. Tulsa (918) 986-7236 · Oklahoma City (405) 406-5677.
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We started in September 2012, with an intent to set the benchmark for concrete and to educate our clients on what exactly to look for when signing a concrete contract. Our aim was to elevate our client’s knowledge on the subject so that they could make a great choice and get exceptional results.