Concrete is an economical option when you consider its longevity. It's possible to only have a driveway completed once per homeowner.
Each of these features has its benefits, but there are some that are more beneficial than others depending on the circumstances. Here are some things to consider when you choose stamped concrete over pavers or slabs in your backyard.
The driveway is now ready and waiting for concrete pour. This usually involves a crew of several people working fast to fill the forms and finish the surface. To ensure slab movement and breaking at controlled times, the finishing crew must also make sure that sufficient expansion joints are created across the surface. A slab can become fractured randomly from natural settling and shifting if it does not have adequate expansion grooves.
There are many design options available, but most homeowners prefer stamped concrete, pavers or slabs. Many homeowners wonder which is better: pavers or slabs or stamped concrete.
Stamped concrete can last for decades if it is properly installed and maintained. Stamped concrete can last longer than standard concrete in some cases. A sealer is applied to stamped concrete by contractors to protect it against wear and abrasion.
Stamped concrete is also possible to be used with other decorative elements, such as exposed aggregates or acid staining.
Concrete stamped with a pattern or texture is concrete that has been imprinted or embossed to resemble bricks, slates, flagstone, stone or tile. Concrete stamping for different purposes started with the ancient Romans. Concrete was often stamped with names and years of contractors during public works projects in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. But, by the end of the twentieth century, "stamped concrete," was used to describe decorative concrete made with modern techniques that can be used for patios and driveways, interior flooring, and other purposes such as sidewalks, driveways, pools decks, and driveways.
Stamped concrete offers a wide range of color and pattern options that are almost limitless. Many people take inspiration from the architecture of their home or landscape and create patterns and colors that match existing stone, tile or texture concrete elements. If your home has a brick exterior, you might consider a simple brick-patterned border to match the theme. Or, choose a pattern that matches your surroundings.
The contractor will need to place rebar in the foundation if the driveway is going to be used for heavy loads or traffic. Rebar, or wire mesh, is used as a grid within concrete forms. Then the wet concrete is poured over the top to form a reinforced concrete surface. Additional materials and labor may be required to lay rebar. This adds an additional $1-3 per square foot.
Concrete is a great option for long-term durability. You might only need to have your driveway installed once while you own your house.
A driveway stamped with stone or wood is becoming a popular option for homeowners looking to create a stone- or wood-like look. Contractors can stamp concrete in any shape and price range, starting at $8 to $15 per sq. ft. To beautify your concrete driveway, you can choose from paving stone designs or inlaid Brick.
Concrete driveway cost is influenced by size and thickness. The driveway must be larger than the driveway. A traditional rectangular driveway will run less than one that is curved with brick pavers on the edges. HomeAdvisor reports that the average cost per sq foot for a standard installation is between $4-$7. Expect to pay $8-$18 for a more complicated driveway.
In comparison to other options, the labor and installation costs of poured, stamped concrete are also very low. Workers will first need to clear the area and create drainage portals. The concrete will then need to be poured and stamped in the desired textures. This may take only several days.
In comparison to other options, the labor and installation costs of poured, stamped concrete are also very low. Workers will first need to clear the area and create drainage portals. The concrete will then need to be poured and stamped in the desired textures. This may take only several days.