Concrete is extremely strong and can withstand extreme weather. Concrete is a popular choice in landscaping design, but homeowners may not prefer the look of poured concrete.
Concrete is a favorite material for driveways. Concrete slabs are strong and long-lasting and require little maintenance. Concrete is a good choice for large areas of paving because of its strength and durability. Concrete driveway surfaces are more expensive than asphalt or gravel. However, it is significantly less expensive than driveways made with cobblestone, brick, or concrete pavers. It also lasts much longer than these.
When you mention "concrete drive", a standard, plain grey driveway is what pops into your mind. The most cost-effective choice when it comes to concrete driveway prices, with an average cost of $4-7 per square foot. While labor and materials are nearly equal, both costs will rise with the driveway's size or shape.
Concrete driveways usually last 25 to 50 years depending upon how well constructed and maintained. A basic concrete driveway will cost from $4 to $10 per square yard when it is installed on top of a gravel basis by a professional crew. The national average for driveways 16x38 is $6/sqft. A driveway costing $3900 would be about $3900. The cost of a colored or stamped exterior can almost double. A demolition of an existing slab will result in a slightly higher cost.
Concrete driveways have a strong foundation. Concrete driveways can withstand heavy vehicles when properly installed with reinforcement and a base.
It is not uncommon for new driveways to require extra work in order to prepare the ground for concrete pouring. Trees, rocks, and uneven ground will all be removed. If the terrain slopes naturally from the house to a street, the contractor will grade the driveway to ensure drainage. The cost of any heavy equipment needed during site preparation is extra.
Concrete driveways are not limited to being rectangular or square. Depending on how much space you have, you may want to add a half-circle to make it easier to get to your garage. Because the contractor must build the forms specifically for the curved design, it will cost more to put in. Some homes are built with a slope that is not easily leveled. Therefore, extra labor and time will be required to properly complete the driveway. Contractors are well-equipped to assess how to prepare concrete's foundation, and pour concrete that maintains the desired grade.
Plain concrete can look rather boring. However, concrete can be colored and stamped for a unique and beautiful surface.
Concrete's color can be affected from weathering, pollution, dirt, and other factors. By regularly sealing and cleaning the concrete, you can reduce color change. Even if your concrete color has declined over the years due to neglect or lack of maintenance it can be easily restored to its original form by cleaning and resealing.
Concrete requires regular maintenance, including sealing, in order to maintain its long-term durability. The stains can be difficult to remove due to oily and other fluids.
Stamped concrete should be avoided using deicing sals, especially in the first winter following pavement installation. The thawing and refreeze of moisture can cause surface damage, such as scaling and spalling. Concrete chemically is harmed by products containing ammonium triphosphates and ammonium nutritrates. Calcium chloride (or rock salt) will do less harm, but can damage vegetation and corrode steel. Sand is another option for traction. You can find more information on how to maintain your concrete driveway and the effects deicing salts have on sealer performance.
Concrete stamped with poured concrete has a lower labor and installation cost than other options. First, workers will need to clear space and install drainage portals and frameworks. Next, concrete will be poured and stamped with desired textures and designs. This process may take only a few days.
Deicing salts should not be used on stamped concrete during the first winter after pavement has been installed. Deicers can cause damage to the concrete surface, including scaling and spalling. They also force moisture to freeze and thaw. Concrete is chemically attacked by ammonium-nitrates or ammonium sulfurates. Although they will cause less damage than calcium chloride or sodium chloride, they can also harm vegetation and corrode metal. Sand can be used for traction. This article explains how to maintain concrete driveways and the effects of deicing salts on sealer performance.
To connect a driveway to a road, most municipalities require a concrete pron. It is typically of the same width and includes the location where a sidewalk will be built. Because it is cheaper to do everything at once, developers often use this apron when they prepare new housing developments. The average cost of building an apron is between $3 and $10 per square feet if one does not exist. They are considered public access spaces so make sure you check with the local authorities.