Concrete that has been poured can also be slippery if it becomes wet. Concrete can be slippery when wet, so it's not recommended in areas where there is a lot of rainfall. Concrete can expand and crack due to extreme temperature fluctuations. It may crack or wiggle under high heat or freeze cold.
If you are looking for unique design elements that coordinate, staining your driveway may be an option. Staining can add texture and depth to your concrete and attracts the attention of anyone who sees it. The cost to stain a driveway is approximately $6-$12 per square foot. It can be done while the concrete is still moist.
Add a border around the edges to enhance a concrete driveway. For a more elegant look, you can add a border using bricks or paving stone. To add a brick or stone boundary to your concrete driveway, you can expect to pay $6 to $15 per foot. Most driveway contractors are capable of installing these borders or will subcontract the task to a bricklayer.
Stamped cement can be pricey depending on what the local market costs and the complexity of your job. However, the old adage that "you get what is paid for" holds true. Stamped concrete offers a longer-lasting surface and lower maintenance costs than other materials. These savings can add up over time, which can result in significant savings. You can increase curb appeal as well as aesthetic value of your home. Basic stamped designs of one color and one pattern can be $8 to $12 per foot. Mid-range jobs in borders and contrasting patterns are $12 to $18 each square foot. High-end custom projects cost $18 to $18 more per squarefoot. For more pricing information, see our stamped concrete cost chart.)
Stamped concrete has many steps. It must be performed quickly and accurately to get uniform results across the entire slab. The layout must be planned out and drawn, with all the necessary tools and labor available. After concrete has been poured and set to the required consistency, color hardeners can be applied. Before applying the stamp patterns to concrete, it is tested once again. Finishing the project includes detailing and cutting contraction joints.
If installed correctly, stamped concrete is very resistant to cracking. Even if stamp concrete does experience some cracking, it is often difficult to see because cracks often blend into the pattern or joint lines. There are many ways to conceal cracks that become an eyesore. Check out Why Concrete Cracks to learn the basics of how you can minimize cracking and maintain good performance.
Concrete prices vary depending upon the type of concrete used. You can have your driveway stained or stamped, but most driveways are made of plain gray concrete. These decorative features add value and cost more, but they are very attractive. A stained driveway may cost from $6 to $12 per sq. foot, while a stamped driveway might cost $8 to $15.
The color of stamped concrete can be affected due to weathering, efflorescence, dirt, and traffic. It is possible to minimize color changes by regularly cleaning and sealing the concrete. It is possible to restore the concrete's original color even if it has lost its appeal due to years or neglect.
Heated driveways are becoming more popular in areas with colder climates and lots of snow and ice. To prevent ice buildup, a radiant heating system can be installed underneath your driveway. A heated driveway can cost anywhere from $10 to $20 per square feet. Heating concrete to extend the life of the driveway is a great investment.
Although permits may not be necessary for the construction of a driveway in all cases, it is worth checking with local authorities. A concrete apron that has been installed in the subdivision will typically be removed by the city. If you do not have a permit, your average permit costs are between $50 and $200.
Find local contractors who specialize in stamped concrete and find out more tips on hiring a contractor for exterior concrete work.
A border around the edges of a concrete driveway can add style and flair to it. To enhance the concrete driveway's appearance, bricks and paving stones are great options for borders. A brick or stone border can be added for $6-$15 per linear foot. These borders can be installed by most driveway contractors, or sub-contracted to bricklayers.
Stamped cement looks very natural because the majority of stamping materials are made from real materials. Stamped concrete contractors will often combine surface-applied and integral colors in order to achieve natural-looking hues, similar to what you would find in real stone. Stamped concrete is actually more attractive than real concrete. You won't see weed or moss growth at the joints and it won’t rot/splinter if your imitation of wood planking.
Concrete driveway costs can be influenced by their size and thickness. The driveway will require more material if it is larger. A traditional rectangular driveway costs less than a more stylized one like a curved driveway with brick pavers running along its edges. HomeAdvisor says that the average cost of a standard installation is between $4-7 per square foot, which includes materials and labor. Installing a more elaborate driveway will cost you $8 to $18 per sq. foot.