Find concrete contractors near me that specialize and receive tips on how to hire them for exterior concrete work.
Concrete is a preferred material for driveways. Concrete slabs are extremely durable and sturdy and require very little upkeep. Concrete slabs have a high value price for large areas. Concrete is more expensive to use as a driveway surface than gravel or asphalt. But it is far less expensive than driveways made out of cobblestone, brick, and concrete pavers. Concrete also tends to last longer than all other driveway materials.
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.
It is possible to make a concrete driveway yourself, but it can be quite difficult. Concrete hardens very quickly once it is poured. This is why time is so important. Professionals are best able to excavate, prepare forms, pour concrete and finish the job quickly. The entire job can be completed by a professional crew in just a few days. A homeowner will need to spend a few days digging and preparation, then pouring concrete and finishing. A group of capable and willing helpers is crucial for the homeowner who wants to pour concrete his way.
The location of the labor market and material prices will determine their cost. Prices for labor and materials are determined by where you live. The labor rate in urban areas is higher than in other areas. Also, the season can have an impact on the price. Certain climates don't permit concrete driveway installation all year, so the demand and costs may rise in peak season.
The concrete must be floated before it can be finished. The concrete is poured, then smoothed by the finishing crew. They use a variety of tools and techniques to smoothen the concrete. There are two options for smoothing the concrete surface. Excessive floating will cause it to crack or weaken. A low amount will give the slab a more industrial look. This is when skilled workers can add decorative finishes to the slab.
A homeowner can pour a driveway by themselves, although it can be difficult work. Because concrete hardens quickly after it has been poured, time is crucial. It is best to hire professionals to do the excavation, prepare forms and pour concrete quickly. A professional crew can complete the project in a matter of days. For excavation, preparation and pouring, it usually takes a homeowner a week to do. It is important to have a team of willing and capable helpers for homeowners who are brave enough to pour their own concrete.
Stamped concrete appears very real because stamping mats are usually made from the materials they are meant to imitate. Many stamped concrete contractors combine integral or dry-shake color with surface-applied coloring medias to create natural-looking colors. Stamped concrete actually looks better than the real thing. There is no weed growth or moss growth between joints and the concrete won't rot, split, or crack if it's mimicking wood planking.
For homeowners who desire a natural stone or wood look, stamping driveways is a popular choice. A contractor can stamp wet concrete in any design you choose, from $8 to $15 per square feet. You can choose from paving stones, inlaid bricks, or wood planks to enhance your concrete driveway.
Heated driveways are a popular choice in colder climates where there is a lot more snow and ice. A radiant heating system installed under your driveway can prevent ice buildup and keep it safe from snowstorms. Heating a driveway costs between $10 and $20 per square foot. Concrete is not well-suited for cold temperatures so heating concrete can extend its life span, making it an attractive investment and selling point.
Concrete producers began to experiment with decorative concrete techniques in the 1890s. Brad Bowman, who is considered the "father of modern concrete stamping" in the 1950s, developed and patent new methods for concrete that resembled nonconcrete materials like flagstone and wood. He used wooden platform stamps to imprint multiple pieces at once.
Ready to install concrete driveways? The average cost of a concrete driveway is $3,000 in the US, and can range from $1,800 to $6,000. You can protect your landscaping, reduce erosion and increase curb appeal by making a concrete driveway investment. Because the material is easy to use and affordable, traditional concrete driveways are very popular. Concrete driveway costs depend on the size and thickness of your driveway. However, labor costs and other structural factors will impact the price. Professional driveway contractors have the ability to work with terrain while laying a durable concrete driveway.
Concrete driveways can be very sturdy. They can withstand even the largest vehicles if they are properly installed and reinforced.
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.