which is why we’ve answered the most frequently asked questions about our services, pricing, and process below.
A concrete contractor handles everything from site prep and excavation to pouring, finishing, and curing concrete for driveways, patios, sidewalks, foundations, curbs, and more. We also manage related services like asphalt paving, pavers, and landscaping for complete outdoor projects in the North Shore area.
Look for local experience with North Shore Illinois weather challenges, licensing/insurance, positive reviews from nearby homeowners, clear communication, detailed estimates, and warranties. Choose someone who prioritizes quality over low bids—North Shore Concrete focuses on durable work that lasts through harsh winters.
Yes, North Shore Concrete is fully insured in Illinois (and equipped for southeast Wisconsin projects). This protects you from liability and ensures professional standards—essential for peace of mind on your property.
Yes! We provide free, no-obligation on-site estimates for concrete driveways, patios, sidewalks, asphalt, pavers, fencing, and more across Northbrook, the North Shore, and lower southeast Wisconsin.
Key factors include project size, thickness/reinforcement, site prep (excavation, grading), decorative finishes (stamped/colored), permits, removal of old material, and local material/labor rates in the Chicagoland area.
Most residential projects like driveways or patios take 3–7 days from start to finish, depending on size, weather, and curing time. We minimize disruption and provide timelines upfront.
We proudly serve the North Shore of Illinois (Northbrook, Highland Park, Glencoe, Winnetka, Wilmette, Kenilworth, Evanston, Glenview), surrounding Chicagoland suburbs, and lower southeast Wisconsin border areas.
In the North Shore/Chicagoland area, expect $12–$18 per square foot for standard concrete driveways (higher for decorative/stamped). A typical 2-car driveway ranges from $6,000–$15,000+, depending on size, thickness, and extras. Free estimates available!
With proper installation and maintenance, a quality concrete driveway lasts 25–40+ years in Illinois, even with freeze-thaw cycles—longer than most alternatives when done right.
Typically, 4–7 days, including excavation, forming, pouring, finishing, and initial curing. We work efficiently to get you back to normal quickly.
Typically, 4–7 days, including excavation, forming, pouring, finishing, and initial curing. We work efficiently to get you back to normal quickly.
Replace when you see widespread cracking, heaving from frost, sinking, or major surface deterioration that patching can't fix—common after 20–30 years in the North Shore.
Light foot traffic after 24–48 hours; vehicles after 7 days (longer in cold weather). Full strength takes 28 days— we'll guide you on safe use.
Some cracking is normal due to shrinkage or ground movement, but proper jointing, reinforcement, and quality mix minimize it. We design for Illinois winters to reduce severe issues.
Concrete is more durable, lower-maintenance, and longer-lasting (25–40+ years vs. asphalt's 15–30). Asphalt is cheaper upfront but needs frequent sealing. Concrete wins for North Shore longevity and curb appeal.
In our area, $12–$18+ per square foot for basic; stamped/decorative runs higher. A standard 200–400 sq ft patio often costs $5,000–$12,000+. Contact us for a custom quote.
30+ years with good installation and occasional sealing—resists weathering better than many options in Chicagoland's climate.
Concrete is more affordable and seamless; pavers offer easier repairs and design flexibility but higher cost/maintenance. Both great—depends on your style and budget.
Yes! We specialize in stamped, colored, and textured concrete patios that mimic stone, brick, or wood for stunning outdoor living spaces.
Usually 3–7 days, weather permitting, with time for proper curing..
Minimal: occasional cleaning, sealing every 2 years, and prompt crack repairs to protect against freeze-thaw damage.
In Chicagoland/North Shore, $4–$8 per square foot installed (often $4,000–$12,000 for typical driveways)—cheaper than concrete upfront.
15–30 years with regular sealcoating every 2–3 years.
25–50+ years with proper base and joints—many older North Shore sidewalks need replacement due to heaving.
Concrete for durability and low maintenance; asphalt for lower initial cost and quicker install. We offer both based on your needs.
Usually 2–4 days, faster than concrete due to quicker curing.
24–48 hours for light walking use; full curing in 3 few days—avoid heavy loads initially.
Yes—sealcoating every 2 years, crack filling, to prevent water damage in Illinois winters.
When extensive cracking, potholes, or base failure occurs—often after 15 years.
Depends on privacy needs, style, budget, and North Shore HOA rules—wood for natural look, metal (aluminum/steel) for low-maintenance durability.
Metal typically lasts longer (20–50+ years) with minimal upkeep; wood (cedar) lasts 15–30 years but needs staining/sealing.
Wood: $30–$50+ per linear foot; metal: $40–$70+ per linear foot in our area—varies by height, style, and gates.
3–7 days for most residential fences, depending on length and terrain.
Often yes in North Shore towns— we check local codes and handle permits.
Yes, especially privacy or decorative fences that enhance curb appeal and security.
Grading, sod/plant installation, hardscaping integration, mulch, tree/shrub work, and combining with concrete/paving for full outdoor transformations.
Varies widely ($4,000–$25,000+); depends on scope— we provide detailed quotes.
Patios, driveways, lighting, and curb-appeal features like walkways—high ROI in North Shore properties.
1–4 weeks, based on complexity.
Absolutely—we integrate seamlessly for cohesive results.
Moderate initially (watering/establishing); less long-term with proper plant selection.
$30–$50+ per square foot in Chicagoland suburbs, including base and labor—higher for premium materials.
$30–$50+ per square foot in Chicagoland suburbs, including base and labor—higher for premium materials.
Pavers for design variety and easy repairs; concrete for seamless, lower-cost durability.
30–50+ years with good base and occasional joint sand replenishment.
4–10 days, depending on size and pattern.
Yes—periodic sealing, weed control, and sand topping.
Sometimes, with proper prep— we evaluate site suitability.
$10,000–$150,000+ depending on size, appliances, counters, and features.
Yes—boosts home enjoyment and resale value in the North Shore.
Typically gas, electric, water, and drainage— we coordinate with pros.
2–8 weeks, including foundation and utilities.
Yes, with proper materials and covers for Illinois winters.
Significantly—appeals to buyers seeking outdoor living.
$300–$4,000+ per tree in North Shore suburbs, based on size, location, and complexity.
Possibly—check local ordinances or HOA rules; we advise.
Often optional— we offer it as an add-on for clean sites.
1–3 days per tree, depending on access and size.
Yes—requires certified pros with equipment; we prioritize safety.
We haul away or chip for mulch (with your preference).
Excavation, grading, drainage, base prep, and clearing for concrete, paving, or building projects.
Yes—essential for stable, long-lasting results.
2–10 days, based on scope.
Yes—we streamline the entire process.
Excavators, skid steers, compactors, and more for precise prep.
Yes—we manage all required approvals.
Installing, repairing, or relocating water, sewer, and drainage lines during site prep or renovations.
Yes, coordinating with licensed plumbers as needed for full-service projects.
3–14 days, including trenching and back fill.
Yes—always; we handle municipal requirements.
We use careful methods to limit impact on your property and schedule
Yes—we manage all required approvals.
Yes—we manage all required approvals.
Ready to start your project? Contact North Shore Concrete for a free estimate today—serving Northbrook, the North Shore, and southeast Wisconsin with quality you can trust!to your business
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