Question 1

How much does a new concrete driveway cost in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

Most standard concrete driveways in San Diego County run $8-$15 per square foot installed, while stamped or decorative finishes typically run $14-$25 per square foot. Final pricing depends on demolition needs, access, slope, and finish. California Clean and Seal provides free written estimates with no obligation - call (619) 818-0113.

Question 2

How much does paver installation cost in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

Interlocking paver installation in San Diego typically ranges from $15-$30 per square foot depending on the paver product, base preparation, and pattern complexity. Paver cleaning and sealing for existing surfaces is far less. We provide exact pricing after a free on-site inspection.

Question 3

How long does it take to install a concrete patio or driveway?

Accepted Answer

Most residential concrete patios and driveways take 3-7 working days from demolition to finished pour, plus curing time. Concrete needs about 7 days before foot traffic and 28 days before full vehicle loads. Larger outdoor living projects with BBQ islands or retaining walls take 2-4 weeks.

Question 4

Do I need a permit for concrete work in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

Flatwork like driveways, patios, and walkways usually does not require a permit in most San Diego jurisdictions, but retaining walls over 3 feet, structural work, and work in the public right-of-way do. As a licensed contractor (CSLB #1017800), California Clean and Seal identifies and handles any required permits for your project.

Question 5

Are you licensed, bonded, and insured?

Accepted Answer

Yes. California Clean and Seal is licensed with the California Contractors State License Board (CSLB #1017800), bonded, and fully insured for all hardscape and concrete work in San Diego County.

Question 6

Do you offer a warranty on concrete and paver work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Our installations are backed by a workmanship warranty, and many of the paver and sealer products we install carry manufacturer warranties on top of that. Warranty terms are spelled out in writing in every proposal.

Question 7

How often should concrete or pavers be sealed in San Diego?

Accepted Answer

In San Diego's sun-heavy coastal climate we recommend resealing concrete and pavers every 2-3 years. Sealing protects against UV fading, oil stains, water intrusion, efflorescence, and weed growth in paver joints. High-traffic driveways and pool decks may need it more often.

Question 8

Can cracked or sunken concrete be repaired instead of replaced?

Accepted Answer

Often, yes. Surface cracks, spalling, and discoloration can usually be fixed with concrete repair, grinding, resurfacing, or an overlay at a fraction of replacement cost. Concrete that has failed structurally - deep cracks with movement, severe settling, or root damage - is better replaced. We assess this honestly during your free estimate.

Question 9

What is concrete resurfacing and when does it make sense?

Accepted Answer

Concrete resurfacing applies a new polymer-modified layer over structurally sound existing concrete, restoring a like-new finish without demolition. It makes sense when your slab is solid but looks worn, stained, or dated - common with older pool decks, patios, and driveways across San Diego.

Question 10

What's the difference between stamped concrete and pavers?

Accepted Answer

Stamped concrete is a poured slab textured and colored to mimic stone, brick, or wood - seamless and typically lower cost. Pavers are individual interlocking units that flex with soil movement and can be spot-repaired. Pavers generally handle San Diego's expansive soils better; stamped concrete offers more pattern freedom. We install both and will recommend the right fit for your property.

Question 11

How do you restore a worn or slippery pool deck?

Accepted Answer

Pool deck restoration typically involves cleaning, repairing cracks and spalling, then applying a cool-touch, slip-resistant overlay or texture coat and sealing it. The result is a cooler, safer, like-new deck without tearing out the existing concrete.

Question 12

What concrete finishes and colors are available?

Accepted Answer

We install broom finish, smooth trowel, exposed aggregate, salt finish, stamped patterns (slate, flagstone, wood plank, cobblestone), integral color, acid and water-based stains, and decorative overlays. We bring samples to your estimate so you can see real textures and colors.

Question 13

Does new concrete crack?

Accepted Answer

All concrete can develop hairline cracks as it cures and the ground moves. Professional installation controls where and how it cracks: proper base compaction, correct thickness, rebar or mesh reinforcement, and strategically placed control joints. That's the difference licensed installation makes.

Question 14

Which paver brands do you install?

Accepted Answer

We install major manufactured paver lines available in Southern California - including Belgard and Angelus-style interlocking pavers - plus natural flagstone and travertine. Every installation includes a compacted base, edge restraints, and polymeric sand.

Question 15

How should I maintain my new concrete or pavers?

Accepted Answer

Rinse regularly, clean oil spills promptly, avoid harsh de-greasers on sealed surfaces, and reseal every 2-3 years. For pavers, top up joint sand if it washes out. We offer maintenance cleaning and resealing programs across San Diego County.

Question 16

Do you handle drainage and slope problems?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Proper drainage is built into every project - correct slope away from the home, channel drains, French drains, and catch basins where needed. Poor drainage is the number one cause of hardscape failure, so we engineer it first.

Question 17

Can you build complete outdoor living areas?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Beyond flatwork we design and build complete outdoor spaces: BBQ islands and outdoor kitchens, fire pits, pergolas, retaining walls, artificial turf, and integrated paver or concrete surfaces - managed as one project with one contractor.

Question 18

Do you do commercial concrete work?

Accepted Answer

Yes. We serve HOAs, property managers, and commercial properties across San Diego County with concrete installation, repair, resurfacing, and ongoing cleaning and sealing programs. Certificates of insurance are provided on request.

Question 19

Which areas of San Diego County do you serve?

Accepted Answer

We serve all of San Diego County, including San Diego, La Jolla, Del Mar, Solana Beach, Cardiff by the Sea, Encinitas, Carlsbad, Oceanside, Vista, San Marcos, Escondido, Rancho Santa Fe, Carmel Valley, Poway, Rancho Bernardo, Rancho Penasquitos, Mira Mesa, Scripps Ranch, Coronado, Point Loma, Chula Vista, El Cajon, and Santee.

Question 20

How do I get a free estimate?

Accepted Answer

Call (619) 818-0113 or submit the estimate form on this page. We'll schedule a free on-site inspection, measure the project, and deliver a written proposal - usually within 48 hours. No pressure, no obligation.

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