After all the above work has been done, the curing process is one of the most critical parts of a concrete driveway. Concrete is not cured immediately. It undergoes slow chemical processes that harden and strengthen the concrete. It is important that the curing process takes place in the most favorable conditions. It all starts with the weather. Curing is best at 70 degrees. The surface should be kept damp, but not too wet. Curing in cold weather will take more time. Curing times will be slower in hot weather if the surface is regularly dampened with water.
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.
Concrete is not the most beautiful building material. However color-etching, stamping, and other options are available. These decorative treatments are more time-consuming and require more maintenance than plain concrete.
Do you wish that your backyard and patio were more comfortable and easier to use for entertaining or relaxing?
Concrete driveways last for 25 to 50years depending on how sturdy they were built and how well they are maintained. A basic concrete driveway laid on top of a gravel bed by a professional crew will run $4-10 per square ft. A 16x38 driveway costs $3900. That's $6 more than the national average. You can expect to pay nearly twice as much if you opt for a colored or stamped finish. It is possible to pay slightly more for demolishment of an older slab.
Stamped concrete can cost a lot depending on where you live and how complex the job is. But, it's worth the investment. Stamped concrete can last longer and require less maintenance than other materials. This can translate into significant savings over its life span. Your home will have more curb appeal and aesthetic value. This will help you maximize the return on your investment. Basic stamped designs that only have one color or pattern cost between $8 and $12 per square ft. Mid-range jobs can run $12 to $18 per ft. High-end custom projects will run $18 to $18 per ft. For more pricing information, see our stamped concrete cost chart.)
Concrete requires annual maintenance to preserve its durability. Vehicle fluids and oils can leave stains that are very difficult to remove.
A single-car driveway 10 feet by 20 foot could cost $800 - $1,600. A larger driveway, 24 feet by 24, costs $2,300 – $4,600. You can stamp decorative designs in concrete. The prices will rise beyond these averages. Concrete driveways usually measure 4 inches thick. If you park heavy vehicles or other equipment, however, you might need to increase the thickness. Concrete is generally sold per cubic yard. Concrete prices per yard range from $125 to $155.
Concrete pouring can be more difficult for driveways under construction. Trees and rocks will need to be removed and uneven ground leveled. To ensure drainage, contractors will grade driveways that are naturally sloped from the house to the street. Additional charges may apply for heavy equipment that is required during site preparation.
Would you like your backyard or patio to be more welcoming and comfortable?
Stamped concrete doesn't require much maintenance unless it is being misused. Concrete that has been poured can crack or wear down due to its strength. This is not the best choice for patios that have large furniture pieces or driveways.
Stamped concrete can be difficult to replace or repair. Cracks or discoloration can lead to concrete having to be patched or removed completely. It may be difficult to match the repair with the original design.
Concrete producers started to experiment with modern decorative concrete techniques back in the 1890s. Brad Bowman, the "father" modern concrete stamping, was a pioneer in developing and patenting concrete techniques that looked like non-concrete materials such as flagstone or wood. He used wooden platform stamped that could imprint multiple pieces simultaneously.
Depending on your region, driveways can be made of asphalt or concrete. Concrete driveways have a long life span and are affordable. These are the three types of concrete that you should consider when budgeting for concrete driveway expenses.