Concrete is a mixture of cement, various kinds of stones, lime-based binders, and water. This mixture is typically used for sidewalks, driveways, and other paving surfaces. Concrete is a really popular material for driveways because it is considered durable, strong, and does not require a lot of maintenance. The longevity and strength of the concrete give it a really good value when you are paving large areas. It is more affordable than cobblestone and brick but lasts longer than all of them. However, it is dull in appearance which is why a lot of people choose to color or stamp it if they use it.
Installation
One advantage of a concrete driveway is that it is installed pretty easily. Time is a critical element though because it can harden very quickly. This is why professionals are usually hired to excavate, prepare, pour, and finish the driveway quickly. It will take them only a few days to complete the task and you will have a brand new driveway without much worry.
It is important to make sure that the foundation is stable and all vegetation and grass is removed from the surface on which you plan to pour the concrete mixture. On many occasions, a reinforcement material, such as metal rebar or steel wire grid, may also be used. Expansion groves also have to be laid out to ensure that the concrete doesn’t cause damage if it expands under heat or humid conditions.
Maintenance
Many homeowners choose concrete driveways since they virtually need no maintenance at all. However, if you want to ensure that they have a long lifespan then all you need to do is keep the driveway clean and sealed.
Clean the driveway by scrubbing the hose with a stiff brush to ensure that it doesn’t become dirty. Concrete sealers can also add a layer of protection and keep the slabs solid. They should be applied once a year, especially during the fall, to prevent the harsh winter weather and road salts from harming the concrete.
Longevity and Costs
Your concrete driveway can remain in good condition for 25 to 50 years. This depends on how it was constructed and how well it was maintained. It is important to get a professional crew to install it so that it lasts longer. The cost of the crew and the materials for the driveway can be around $4000. However, these costs can double if you go with a stamped or color finish or choose a more expensive material.
In the long run, this cost is covered as the material is durable enough to last for a long time!
Pros and Cons
There are many benefits to choosing concrete. Here’s a list of some of them.
- It is an affordable option since it lasts for a very long time.
- Concrete will make a really durable surface that can last for more than 50 years if it is well-maintained and installed carefully.
- Concrete is very strong and can bear the burden of heavy vehicles with ease.
The cons of concrete are relatively minor and can include:
- Concrete isn’t aesthetically pleasing but you can get color or stamp finishes. These decorative efforts add to the cost, require maintenance, and may not last for long.
- You will need to do annual maintenance like sealing to ensure that it lasts for a long time
- Concrete driveways aren’t DIY-friendly and need a professional team to install.
Choosing concrete is a good plan since it has a lot of advantages and not many cons! If you are looking for a concrete contractor in Troy, MI, give Flat Rock Concrete a call today! We can be reached at (248) 379-0250 or (586) 726-6091! Give us a call today!