It is possible for homeowners to put in a concrete driveway, but it is difficult work. It is essential to take your time as concrete can harden quickly once it has been poured. Professionals can quickly prepare the forms, pour the concrete, and finish the project. A professional crew can complete the whole project in less than a week, while a homeowner may need to take a week for excavation and preparation. Then, pouring and finishing takes another long day. The homeowner who is determined enough to pour his own concrete will need a team of capable, willing and able-bodied people on hand.
Budgeting for concrete driveways costs requires you to take into account a few additional factors. Additional work may be needed to stabilize the driveway, or specialty designs might need to be considered.
Pavers however, need some care to remain in their best condition. Sealing the tiles is done by filling the space between pavers with sand. These can eventually wear away or become unusable, so tiles will need re-sealed.
For homeowners who want to have a stone or a wood look without having to spend a lot or use unsuitable materials, stamping a driveway is an attractive option. Contractors can stamp wet concrete in any arrangement you have, for as low as $8 to $15/square foot. Concrete driveways can be adorned with paving stones, inlaid and even wood planks.
For a smoother surface, you can also use poured concrete. Most builders recommend stamped, poured concrete for wheelchair-accessible spaces since it creates a more even surface. This is ideal for areas with unusual shapes or large surface areas.
Stamped surfaces, like conventional concrete, will last decades if properly installed and maintained. This is even when they are exposed to extreme winter weather conditions. Stamped concrete may be more durable than regular concrete in certain cases. This is especially true if the concrete was made with a color hardener. To protect stamped concrete from wear and abrasion, most contractors apply sealers to it. This makes it easier to maintain.
Stamped concrete gives concrete the appearance of stone or wood. Concrete is poured into moulds in a variety of designs to create almost any design you desire.
Stamped concrete has a few drawbacks. It can be very difficult to repair or replace. If cracks develop or concrete becomes discolored, it can be repaired or cut out completely. It is sometimes difficult to match the repaired area with the original design.
Concrete is not easy to work with for large projects. Concrete driveways require hard labor. For most people, professional installation will be the best choice.
Stamped surfaces, like conventional concrete, will last decades if properly installed and maintained. This is even when they are exposed to extreme winter weather conditions. Stamped concrete may be more durable than regular concrete in certain cases. This is especially true if the concrete was made with a color hardener. To protect stamped concrete from wear and abrasion, most contractors apply sealers to it. This makes it easier to maintain.
Concrete can also be poured if you desire a smooth surface. Most builders recommend stamped, poured concrete for wheelchair-accessible spaces since it creates a more even surface. It works well for large spaces or areas that are unusually shaped.
Concrete is an affordable option, especially when you consider its durability. A driveway may only be required once you have your home.
Most municipalities require a concrete curb to connect driveways to roads. It usually has the same width of the driveway as the sidewalk and is generally the same length. This apron can be used to help developers prepare a new housing project. Aprons are usually built at a cost of $3-10 per square ft if they don't exist. They are considered public space so check with your local authorities.
Stamped concrete requires more care over time. It will be necessary to have the concrete resurfaced or renewed every 20-30 years by most homeowners to maintain its beauty.