There are several factors to be aware of when budgeting for concrete driveway cost. You might need to do additional work on the terrain or use different materials to make sure your driveway is stable. Specialty designs may also be available at an additional charge.
Stamped surfaces are durable and can last for many decades, even when placed properly and well maintained. Sometimes stamped concrete is more durable than normal concrete. If a color hardener was used at the time it was poured, this can make it even more durable. Stamped concrete is also protected from wear and abrasion by most contractors. It's easier to maintain.
Concrete is not easy to work with for large projects. Concrete driveways require hard labor. For most people, professional installation will be the best choice.
Later, platform-stamps would be made out of aluminum or sheet metal. Bill Stegmeier from the Stegmeier Company discovered that a powder that was used to create an antiquing appearance to concrete could also prevent stamps forming a bond with concrete. This provided new opportunities.
You can add a border along the edges of your concrete driveway to add style and elegance. Concrete driveways can look more attractive with borders made from bricks and pavers. For a brick or paving stone border, expect to pay $6-$15 per foot. These borders can usually be installed by driveway contractors or they will subcontract it to a bricklayer.
The concrete design is made on the property. This means that you can choose the exact color and design. Concrete layers can include cement coloring to give the desired appearance.
You should consider a few other factors when budgeting concrete driveway costs. To ensure a driveway that is stable and sturdy, the terrain may require additional work or materials. Some specialty designs can also be required at an additional cost.
Find stamped concrete contractors near you and learn more about hiring contractors to do exterior concrete work.
When the phrase "concrete dyke" is mentioned, it's most likely to bring up a plain gray driveway. Concrete driveways cost an average of $4 to $5 per square foot. This is the most economical option. The cost of a driveway will be divided almost equally between labor and materials, although both will increase depending on its size or shape.
Concrete is the preferred material for driveways. Concrete slabs require very little maintenance and are extremely strong and durable. Concrete slabs offer a great value for large areas. Concrete is more costly than asphalt and gravel for driveway surfaces, but it's significantly cheaper than driveways made from brick, cobblestone and concrete pavers, which can last a lot longer.
Sealing your concrete driveway will help keep it in good shape longer. It will prevent cracks and protect your driveway from chemical de-icing chemicals. Some contractors will include it in their quote automatically. If you are unsure, ask. Sealing a driveway will cost you between $0.50 and $2.50 on average. Sealing a driveway with a specialty stain is required to protect the color.
The most durable and longest-lasting paving material, stamped concrete requires less maintenance than regular replacements. It is recommended that stamped concrete be cleaned and sealed every two to three years. However, this will vary depending on how much foot or car traffic the area has, the weather conditions, chemical usage, weather conditions, and other factors. A basic cleaning is enough to clean the concrete with a pressure washer or garden hose, mild detergent, and a push-broom. The surface is stronger and more resistant to abrasion. Sealers and color hardeners help prevent water, stains and chemicals from getting in. It's a good idea, however, to immediately remove any oil, grease, or other spillages. Call us for more information about how to seal and clean stamped concrete.
Outdoor driveways should not be made of polished concrete as it is slippery and can cause slippage. Poured concrete driveways come in a variety of finishes, including a broom, textured or an exposed aggregate finish. Installing a plain finish will cost you $6-8 per square foot. However, other basic finishes can be purchased for $8-12.
Each feature has its own benefits. But, there are certain situations where some designs are better than the others. Here's what to look for when choosing stamped concrete vs. slabs or pavers for your backyard.