We’ve been pouring a lot of concrete lately across our construction sites—everything from ADU walkways and new driveways to patio steps and outdoor sitting areas. One thing is certain: concrete isn’t cheap these days. But in many cases, quality hardscaping is essential to make a home feel complete.
Beyond the cost, the process itself is actually pretty fascinating to watch.
It starts with the crew carefully framing out the space and installing a rebar grid to reinforce the structure. Then comes the big day: the concrete trucks arrive—sometimes several back-to-back—and begin pouring through a large hose. From there, the team works quickly and efficiently, spreading the concrete evenly with rakes and leveling it using long boards.
Because concrete sets fast, timing is everything. Once the surface is leveled, the crew uses trowels to smooth it out, followed by cutting clean lines into the concrete (often using a string guide). These control joints are crucial—they help prevent cracking as the concrete cures.
At one of our properties in Los Angeles, though, the process came with an unexpected twist.
We happen to have free-roaming peacocks on-site. The crew did a great job keeping them away from the freshly poured concrete… until one managed to sneak through at just the wrong moment.
Let’s just say it left its mark.
Now the question is—do we keep the footprints? 😆
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