faq

Frequently asked questions

Can I make changes during the construction process?

In most cases, yes. If we’re still in the planning, excavation, or framing stages, we can usually adjust layouts, add features, or tweak finishes. Once concrete has been poured, changes become more limited and may require additional work like resurfacing or repairs. We’ll always walk you through what’s possible, what it will cost, and how it may affect your schedule so you can make a clear decision.

How do you ensure quality and safety?

We start with proper site prep and grading, then follow local East Tennessee codes and proven building practices on every project. Forms, reinforcement, and concrete mixes are chosen for long-term strength, and our excavation work is done with the right equipment and attention to utilities and drainage. For building projects like retaining walls or metal structures, we double-check measurements, anchoring, and drainage so everything is safe, solid, and built to last.

Do you provide warranties Or guarantees?

Yes. Stone Ridge Development stands behind our workmanship on concrete, excavation, and building projects. Your proposal will outline the specific warranty terms for your job so you know exactly what’s covered and for how long. If an issue comes up related to our installation, we’ll come out, take a look, and make it right within those terms.

Do you offer ongoing maintenance or repair services?

We do. If you have cracked or worn concrete, drainage issues, or areas that need small structural repairs, we can come back to resurface, seal, or correct problem spots. Many customers in East Tennessee call us after the initial project for things like driveway touch-ups, concrete sealing, or adjustments to drainage. We’re happy to help protect the work we’ve already done and keep your property in good shape.

What payment methods do you accept?

Frequently asked concrete questions

How much does it cost to pour a new concrete driveway or patio on my East Tennessee property?

Cost depends on the size of the project, thickness, site conditions, and any extras like decorative finishes or steps. Things that affect pricing include:
• Square footage and layout
• How much grading or removal is needed
• Standard broom finish vs. decorative or stamped finishes
• Access for trucks and equipment

The best way to get real numbers is a free on-site estimate. We’ll look at your East Tennessee property, discuss how you plan to use the space, and provide a clear, written price before any work begins.

How long does a typical concrete project (driveway, slab, or sidewalk) take from prep to final finish?

Most concrete projects in East Tennessee take anywhere from 1–3 days on site, depending on size and complexity:
• Day 1: Prep work – grading, forming, and setting reinforcement.
• Day 2: Concrete pouring and finishing.
• Day 3 (if needed): Detail work, clean-up, and saw cuts.

Curing continues after we leave. You can usually walk on new concrete in about 24–48 hours, and drive on a driveway in about 5–7 days, depending on weather. We’ll give you a clear timeline for your specific project before we start.

Will my concrete crack, and what do you do to reduce cracking in East Tennessee’s weather and soil conditions?

All concrete has the potential to crack over time, especially with temperature swings and ground movement. At Stone Ridge Development, we work to control and minimize cracking, not ignore it:
• Proper base prep and grading
• Correct slab thickness and reinforcement
• Well-planned control joints
• Quality mixes suited for East Tennessee conditions
• Careful curing practices

These steps help your driveway, patio, or slab stay stronger, look better longer, and handle our local climate.

Can you resurface or repair my existing concrete instead of tearing it out and repouring everything?

In many cases, yes. If the base is still solid, we can often repair, resurface, or overlay existing concrete instead of full replacement. This is a great option for:
• Worn or lightly cracked driveways and walkways
• Stained or tired patios and porches
• Rough or uneven garage and shop floors

We’ll inspect your concrete, let you know if resurfacing is a good, long-term solution, and recommend whether repair or full replacement makes the most sense.

How often should I seal my concrete driveway or patio, and do you offer concrete sealing and maintenance?

For most exterior concrete in East Tennessee, we recommend sealing about every 2–3 years, depending on traffic, sun exposure, and de-icing products used. Regular sealing helps:
• Protect against water, salt, and stains
• Reduce surface wear and hairline cracking
• Keep your concrete looking cleaner and newer

Yes, we do offer concrete sealing and maintenance. We can seal new concrete after it cures properly or come back to clean and reseal older slabs.

Frequently asked excavation questions

Can you handle septic tank installation from excavation to final inspection for my rural East Tennessee property?

Yes. Stone Ridge Development can take care of the full septic tank installation process:
• Excavation for the tank and lines
• Proper grading and bedding so the tank sits level and supported
• Installing the tank and lines to local code
• Coordinating required inspections

We focus on long-term performance, so your septic system is installed correctly the first time and ready for years of reliable use.

What steps do you take to protect utilities, neighboring properties, and drainage when excavating or grading my yard?

Before any digging, we identify underground utilities and plan access routes that protect your home and neighboring properties. During excavation and grading, we:
• Mark and avoid known utility lines
• Control soil and debris so it doesn’t wash onto roads or neighboring yards
• Shape the ground to maintain or improve drainage flow
• Use the right equipment for your lot size and slope

The goal is to leave your East Tennessee property safe, stable, and ready for the next phase of the project.

Can you fix existing drainage problems with new grading or drainage ditches to prevent flooding on my property?

Yes. We regularly help homeowners solve drainage issues caused by poor grading or heavy East Tennessee rainfall. We can:
• Regrade low spots so water flows away from your home
• Cut clean, properly sloped drainage ditches
• Tie in drainage to existing outlets where possible
• Coordinate with other work, like driveways or building pads

We’ll walk your property, see how water is currently moving, and design a grading or ditching plan that helps reduce pooling and erosion.

Do you offer demolition and haul-off for old structures, concrete, or driveways before new construction starts?

We do. Stone Ridge Development provides demolition and removal for things like:
• Old concrete driveways and slabs
• Small structures, sheds, and outbuildings
• Failing retaining walls or damaged pads

We handle the tear-down with the right equipment, load out debris, and leave the area clean and ready for new construction, concrete, or building work.

How do you price excavation work like grading, land clearing, or pool digs for residential lots in East Tennessee?

Excavation pricing depends on the scope and site conditions. Factors that affect cost include:
• How much grading or land clearing is needed
• Soil type, rock, and access for equipment
• Depth and size of work, such as pool digs, septic tanks, or foundations
• Whether demolition or haul-off is required

Because every East Tennessee property is different, we recommend an on-site visit. We’ll look at your terrain, discuss what you’re planning, and provide a clear, written estimate before any excavation work begins.

Frequently asked construction questions

How much does it cost to build a retaining wall or metal building on my East Tennessee property?

Costs for retaining walls and metal buildings depend on the size, design, materials, and site conditions. A few things that affect pricing are:
• Height and length of a retaining wall, and how much excavation and drainage work is required
• Size and use of a metal building (simple storage vs. finished workshop)
• Site access, slope, and how much grading or concrete is needed
• Any extras like steps, railings, doors, or interior framing

Because every property and project is different, the best next step is a site visit and written estimate. We’ll look at your property, talk through how you want to use the space, and give you clear pricing before any construction begins.

What types of building projects do you handle for homes and small businesses in East Tennessee?

Stone Ridge Development handles a range of light construction projects for residential and small commercial properties across East Tennessee, including:
• Retaining walls for slopes, driveways, and yard terracing
• Metal buildings and shops for storage, workshops, and small business use
• Framing and structural carpentry
• Decks, porches, and small additions

If you’re not sure whether your project fits, we’re happy to look at your plans or walk the property and let you know what we can take on.

Do you design and build retaining walls that can handle slopes and heavy rainfall common in East Tennessee?

Yes. Retaining walls in East Tennessee have to deal with sloped ground, clay soils, and heavy rain, so we focus on structure and drainage, not just looks. That means:
• Proper footings or base prep
• Correct wall height and setback for the load
• Built-in drainage and backfill to relieve pressure
• Clean, straight stacking or block placement

Our goal is a wall that stays put, sheds water properly, and still looks good years down the road.

Can you help me plan and build a metal building or shop, including the concrete slab and site prep?

Absolutely. We often handle start-to-finish metal building projects, which can include:
• Site grading and excavation
• The concrete slab and any thickened edges or footings
• Anchoring and erecting the metal building itself

This approach keeps everything coordinated and ensures the building, slab, and site all work together. We’ll review how you plan to use the building—storage, workshop, small business—and size and configure it accordingly.

Do you provide framing, decks, and carpentry as standalone services, or only as part of larger construction projects?

We offer framing, decks, and carpentry both as part of larger projects and, in many cases, as standalone work. That can include:
• New decks and porches
• Interior and exterior framing
• Structural repairs
• Selected trim and finish work tied to our other services

If you have a specific carpentry project in mind, we can talk through the scope and let you know whether it’s a good fit for our crew and schedule.