Concrete driveways can last between 25 and 50 years depending on how well-built they are and how well maintained. A basic concrete driveway that is laid on a gravel foundation by a professional crew can be purchased for $4-10 per square foot. A 16 x 38 driveway will cost you $3900. This is compared to $6 per square feet on the national average. If you choose to have the driveway stamped or colored, these costs could nearly double. You will pay slightly more for the removal of an old slab.
Concrete driveways need not be just a square or rectangle. Depending upon the space available, you may choose to add a circle or an L-shape for garages that aren't directly facing the street. Installing a curved design is more costly because the contractor must make the forms. Some homes are built on a slope which is impossible to level, and extra labor is required to complete the driveway. Contractors have the ability to evaluate the foundation of concrete and pour it at the right grade.
When hiring a contractor to do work around your home or business, it is important that you get multiple written estimates and verify their references. You should ask for samples and a portfolio of work from stamped concrete contractors. Some decorative concrete contractors even have showrooms where all of their samples are on display. Another option is to visit their website. There you will often find photos of their work and information about the different types of decorative concrete they offer.
Because stamped concrete is a textured concrete, it is often more slippery than normal concrete. It can also become slippery if the sealer or film-forming agent has not been applied. There are many things you can do if stamped concrete is to be used in a high-traffic area such as an entranceway or pool deck. Talk to your contractor about any concerns.
There are many design options out there, but most homeowners prefer to use stamped concrete, pavers, and slabs. It is often a question of preference: pavers vs slabs or stamped concrete.
Each concrete driveway will eventually need to be replaced. They should last between 30 and 40 years so it is not an expensive expense. However, there are common indicators that will help you know when to plan for a replacement driveway.
Floating concrete is an essential part of the finish process. After concrete is poured and smoothed out, the crew uses a variety to work the concrete surface. This involves drawing cement and other particles to it through capillary action. The result is a smoother and more attractive surface. It is determined by how smooth the surface will look. There is a lot to be done. Excessive flotation can weaken the surface and cause it flake. However, too much will leave the slab looking rough and industrial. This is the time when skilled workers can apply decorative finishes or colors to the slab's slab.
There are many options for design, but homeowners tend to prefer slabs or pavers over stamped concrete. Many people are often confused about which option is best: stamped concrete or pavers or slabs.
It is important to get at least three estimates written and to verify the references of any contractor you choose to do your projects around your house or business. For stamped concrete, it is especially important to get a contractor that can show you their past work and give you actual samples of the colors and patterns they offer. Some decorative concrete contractors offer showrooms that have all their samples displayed. Another option is visiting the contractor’s website. Here you can often see photos of their projects, as well as details about the decorative concrete they are specialized in.
One of the biggest disadvantages of stamped concrete is its difficulty in repairing or replacing. Concrete can crack or become discolored. This concrete must be repaired or completely removed. It can also be difficult for the repaired parts to match with the original design.
Heated driveways can be a great option for those living in colder areas that see a lot of snow and ice. It is possible to have a radiant heating system installed under the driveway to prevent ice accumulation. This will help keep your driveway safe in snowstorms. Heating a driveway will cost you between $10-20 per square foot. Concrete doesn't like cold temperatures and heating it can prolong the life of your driveway. This makes it a good investment as well as a selling point.
Concrete driveway costs are almost half the cost of labor. The average cost of concrete driveways is between $4 and $7 per square feet. If that price is higher, labor costs will typically be $2 to $3 per sq. foot. Concrete costs are the remainder. The concrete forms will be built by laborers. If necessary, rebar may also be added. Concrete is then laid and smoothed out. The forms can be removed once the concrete has cured.
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.
Each concrete driveway will eventually need to be replaced. They should last between 30 and 40 years so it is not an expensive expense. However, there are common indicators that will help you know when to plan for a replacement driveway.