I recently hired a contractor to install decorative concrete edging between my lawn and a rock flower bed, but I have a couple of issues I'd like advice on before I confront them. First, it appears that the concrete edging is too low in certain spots, creating a gap between the lawn and the concrete, which could complicate mowing and lead to erosion. Is it possible to fix this without tearing out the whole thing, or does it need a complete redo?
Secondly, I'm worried that the concrete might have been compromised. The contractor instructed me not to run the sprinklers for 48 hours after pouring. However, just 7-8 hours later, another crew came in and walked over the concrete while dumping river rock, and even dragged a large boulder across it. Additionally, they used a hose to wash the river rock, which left standing water near the fresh concrete. How can I assess if there's been internal damage to the concrete? Would I need to redo it? I'd really appreciate any advice on what to expect regarding quality and how to address these concerns.
3 Answers
Honestly, a little water on the concrete during curing isn't a dealbreaker. They often use wet burlap to keep it from drying too fast, which can actually help it strengthen over time. As for the height, while it's not ideal for it to be lower than the grass, it shouldn't be a problem unless it's causing water to pool toward your house. You might just want to leave it as is unless it really starts to cause issues. Enjoy your new edging!
While it does look low, it’s not the end of the world. If the concrete looks intact and undamaged, I wouldn't stress too much. Concrete does settle over time, but that's normal. Just ensure that the grading directs water away from your foundation. If you pattern it right, it should be manageable, and you won’t have to redo the whole thing.
I agree; you might need to adjust the area around it if it's too low, though.
I think you're overthinking it! From your photos, it looks fine to me. The concrete wasn’t likely damaged if it didn’t show cracks or deformities immediately after the other crew worked on it. Plus, many people actually prefer the edges to follow the natural contour of the lawn instead of forcing a perfect slope. Just keep up with the maintenance, and it'll look great!
You're right; once it sets up, watering it helps so much. A good curing process is key!
Yeah, I always thought it was best to keep it a bit damp. A little too low isn't a disaster, but I’d keep an eye on it.