Concrete Driveways & Patios

Introduction

Before the concrete is poured, your project needs the right prep. Here's how proper excavation ensures long-lasting driveways and patios.

A new concrete driveway or backyard patio is a great investment. But what most homeowners don’t see is the step that makes it last — the excavation and prep work underneath. If you want your concrete to stay level, crack-free, and looking sharp for years, the real work starts before the pour. In this guide, we’ll walk you through why proper excavation matters, what to expect, and how the PMD Excavation team gets it done right the first time.

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Why Prep Work Matters More Than You Think

Concrete is only as strong as what’s underneath it. A beautiful finish means nothing if the base shifts, sinks, or lets water collect under the slab. That’s why quality excavation and grading are the most important steps in the entire process.

We make sure your base is compacted, sloped properly, and stable — so your concrete surface stays smooth, drains correctly, and doesn’t crack from shifting or settling.

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What the Process Looks Like

1. Site Walkthrough & Planning

We’ll meet you on-site to check access, layout, and drainage. Whether it’s a straight driveway, wraparound patio, or tight backyard space, we plan around your home, not against it.

2. Excavation & Clearing

Old concrete, grass, gravel, roots — it all comes out. We excavate to the proper depth based on your project, ensuring enough room for a solid base and clean finish.

3. Base Prep & Compaction

We bring in crushed stone or gravel, level it to the correct grade, and compact it thoroughly. This is what supports your concrete, keeps it from cracking, and makes sure water runs off — not under.

4. Fine Tuning the Slope

We slope your base ever so slightly to allow for proper drainage. That means fewer puddles, less erosion, and longer lifespan for your surface.

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Types of Projects We Prep

• Concrete driveways (standard, circular, multi-car)
• Backyard patios (custom shapes, entertainment areas)
• Walkways and front entrances
• Concrete pads for hot tubs, sheds, or fire pits

Whether it's a new install or replacing an old surface, we set the base so your concrete contractor can deliver a clean, durable finish.

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What Sets PMD Excavation Apart

• Clean, careful work – No mess left behind. We respect your property and your time.
• Tight access? No problem – We’ve worked in narrow city lots and wide rural spaces.
• Local knowledge – We know the weather, soil, and grading standards in St. Thomas, London, and across Southwestern Ontario.
• Partner-friendly – We work well with concrete finishers and builders, so everything stays on track.

FAQs

Do I need excavation for a simple patio?
Yes. Even smaller projects need a solid base. Skipping proper prep leads to cracks, drainage issues, and shifting.

Can you remove my old driveway or patio?
Absolutely. We handle full removal and disposal before prepping the site for your new concrete.

How deep do you dig?
It depends on soil type and project use, but most driveways need around 6 to 12 inches of compacted base material. We’ll assess the exact depth on-site.

How soon can you start?
We’re usually booked a few weeks out, but we always aim to accommodate your timeline. Reach out early to lock in your spot.

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Call us today at [226-559-2112] for a free concrete driveway or patio consultation!