Concrete is sometimes called cement. However cement refers to one component in concrete. Concrete is a composite material consisting of various types stone aggregates that are held together with a mixture containing water and lime-based glue, such as Portland cement. Limestone and clay are used to make cement. The concrete mixture's aggregate can be of different sizes depending on its intended use. Concrete is generally made with coarser aggregates for structural construction. However, finer aggregates can be used to make smoother surfaces and do finer work. The mixture that is used to create driveway slabs or sidewalks usually contains a mix of aggregate that ranges from gravel to smaller particles.
For the least upfront cost, stamped concrete tends be the best option. Concrete is quite affordable, and it can cover a large area of land relatively quickly.
While slabs and pavers may have the same appearance as stamped concrete they are made out of smaller, pre-poured tiles. This allows homeowners greater control over the design, appearance, and style of their slabs.
A homeowner can pour a driveway by themselves, although it can be difficult work. Because concrete hardens quickly after it has been poured, time is crucial. It is best to hire professionals to do the excavation, prepare forms and pour concrete quickly. A professional crew can complete the project in a matter of days. For excavation, preparation and pouring, it usually takes a homeowner a week to do. It is important to have a team of willing and capable helpers for homeowners who are brave enough to pour their own concrete.
Every concrete driveway must be replaced eventually. They are expected to last for 30-40 years so they don't need to be replaced often. But there are some signs that you can look out for to help you plan a replacement driveway.
Although slabs or pavers can look similar to stamped concrete, they are made of smaller pre-poured tiles. This allows homeowners to have more control over how their slabs look and feel.
Stamped concrete is very realistic as most stamping mats are made from the exact materials they were designed to reproduce. Stamped concrete contractors use both integral and dry-shake colors in combination with surface-applied color mediums to achieve natural-looking color variations. Stamped concrete is more realistic than real stone because it doesn't have weeds or moss growth between the joints. It also won't rot or split if you're mimicking wood planking.
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.
Concrete driveways are considered almost maintenance-free by many people. However, it pays to keep your driveway sealed and clean to make sure that it lasts a long time. The cleaning can be done with a stiff brush, a hose, and a concrete sealer. Sealer should be applied once a year. To ensure the driveway will withstand winter salts and other harsh weather, it is best to seal your driveway in the fall.
An old driveway must be removed in order to create a new concrete driveway. Driveways in disrepair must be dismantled and hauled off to the dump. A driveway contractor usually charges $1-4 per square foot and has the ability to access the equipment necessary to perform this huge job quickly.
Stamped concrete is more expensive over the long-term. To keep your stamped concrete looking its best, most homeowners will need it to be resurfaced every 20-30 year.
Pavers require some maintenance to be in top condition. Pavers are often sealed with sand in the spaces between them. These tiles might eventually become damaged or lose their seal, and will need to be resealed.
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.
The Pantheon is a well-known example of a Roman structure that used concrete stamping. Concrete companies that won government bids on public works projects used concrete stamps that included the company name and sometimes the years of concrete pouring. This allowed for visible historical records about the construction of sidewalks.