Concrete is sometimes misunderstood as cement. In reality, however, cement refers only to one component of concrete. Concrete is a mixed material that is made from various types of stone, and which is held together using a mixture of water (or lime-based binder) such as Portland cement. A pulverized powder of limestone and clay is cement. Depending on what concrete is being used for, the aggregate size in concrete mixtures can vary. Concrete is usually made from gravel-sized aggregates. But finer sands may be used for finer work or smoother surfaces. Mixtures of aggregate from gravel to small particles are the typical mix used in driveway slabs and sidewalks.
Concrete isn't a material that you can do yourself for large projects. Concrete driveways can be very difficult to pour. This is why professional installation is preferred.
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.
At least a week should be allowed before you drive on the new driveway. You should also wait at least a month before parking your heavy vehicles on the driveway. Seal the concrete at least a month in advance.
Stamped concrete became a popular component of building projects in the 1970s as a result of the growing demand. Jon Nasvik, a concrete stamp manufacturer, developed lightweight and long-lasting urethane stamps in the late 1970s. Later, he developed plastic stamps that could imprint texture and patterns on concrete. This made the process more efficient.
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.
Concrete that has been stamped or textured is concrete that looks like brick, slate flagstone, stone tile, tile or other textures. The ancient Romans started stamping concrete for different purposes. Concrete used to be stamped with years and contractor names during public works projects. However, in the late 20th century, the term stamped concrete became synonymous with decorative concrete. It is concrete that has been poured with modern techniques and can be used in driveways or patios.
Every concrete driveway will need to be repaired at some point. They will need to be replaced every 30-40 years.
Sealing concrete driveways is an option to prolong driveway life. Sealing your concrete driveway can help prevent cracks from forming, protect it against deicing chemicals, and extend its life expectancy. It is often included in the price of a contractor's quote. You should verify this. Sealing a driveway costs between $0.50 and $2.50 per square feet. To protect a specialty stain, it will need to be sealed.
Sealing concrete driveways is an option to prolong driveway life. Sealing your concrete driveway can help prevent cracks from forming, protect it against deicing chemicals, and extend its life expectancy. It is often included in the price of a contractor's quote. You should verify this. Sealing a driveway costs between $0.50 and $2.50 per square feet. To protect a specialty stain, it will need to be sealed.
Avoid using deicing salts to stamp concrete, particularly in the first winter after it has been laid. By forcing the thawing of water and causing spalling, deicers can cause severe surface damage. Ammonium nitrates, and ammoniumsulphates can cause concrete to be chemically damaged. While they are less harmful than rock salt (sodium chloride), calcium chloride and calcium chloride, these products can cause damage to vegetation and corrode metallic. You can also use sand to traction. See How to Maintain Concrete Driveways and The Effects Of Deicing Salts On Sealer Performance.
Floating the concrete is an important part of the final process. The concrete has been poured and smoothed. After that, the finishing crew uses a variety tools to smoothen the concrete's surface. They draw the cement and other fine particles to the surface via capillary action, creating a smoother, more attractive surface. How smooth the surface will be will depend on how much floating there was. This is why it takes a lot of skill to do so. Too much floating can cause the slab to crack and weaken, while too little can leave it with an industrial appearance. A skilled crew can also apply decorative finishes and colors on the slab's surface.
A stamped concrete color that is durable and weather resistant makes colored and stamped concrete the perfect choice for patios, decks and driveways.
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.