How a project runs, from site visit to walkthrough
A concrete, paver or turf project with Opera runs in six steps: site visit, written scope, approvals, demolition and base, the pour or the lay, and a walkthrough. Most of the quality is decided in step four, the base, which is why we put its depth and compaction in writing.
1. Site visit and measure
We measure the area, note the existing surface and what's under it where we can see it, check the slope and where storm water runs, mark trees whose roots matter, and look at access for equipment and a concrete truck. In master-planned communities we ask for the architectural guidelines, because they often decide the material and color before you do.
2. Written scope and price
The estimate lists area, demolition, base material and depth, concrete thickness and strength or paver type and pattern, joints, finish, sealer, permits and cleanup. If two bids don't list the same items, they aren't the same job. The post on comparing quotes line by line shows what to look for.
3. Approvals
HOA or ARC approval and any city or county permit come before demolition. Driveway aprons in the public right-of-way nearly always need a right-of-way or engineering permit. Since July 1, 2026, small single-family jobs under $7,500 are exempt from building permits in Florida, but zoning, engineering and right-of-way permits still apply where the local government requires them. County details: Orange and Orlando, Sarasota County, Manatee County.
4. Demolition and base
Old concrete is cut and broken out, roots and organic soil are dug out, and the subgrade is compacted. Under pavers, the aggregate base goes in lifts and is compacted to the density the industry standard calls for (ICPI Tech Spec 2). Under turf, the base is washed crushed rock or crushed concrete, as Florida's 2026 turf rule requires.
5. Pour, lay or install
Concrete is placed early in the day when it's hot, finished, jointed at the planned spacing and cured with a compound or wet cure. Pavers are laid on screeded bedding sand, cut, compacted and swept with joint sand. Turf is rolled out, seamed, nailed or edged and infilled. See how a concrete driveway is installed and how pavers are installed in Florida.
6. Walkthrough and care
We walk the finished work with you, confirm when you can drive or walk on it, and leave care instructions. For sealed surfaces we note when the sealer should be renewed based on wear, not a calendar; the paver industry's own guide sets no fixed interval (ICPI Tech Spec 5).