How to Find a Concrete Driveway Near Me

A well-maintained concrete driveway is an attractive addition to a home and can increase its value. It also resists extreme weather conditions and traffic loads better than asphalt.

When hiring a contractor to build a new concrete driveway, look for a company that has a good track record and references. The right concrete contractor can offer a cost-effective solution and complete the project on time.

Cost

Concrete costs more than asphalt, but it lasts much longer, up to 40 years. This investment pays off in the long run because homeowners spend less on maintenance and repairs. The cost of a concrete driveway depends on its size, design complexity, and location.

A contractor can help you estimate the price of a new concrete driveway based on your preferences and the square footage of your property. Other factors include the thickness of the concrete (more thickness increases load-bearing capacity) and any extras you may want.

For example, many driveway contractors offer options like adding brick or paving stone borders to the edges of the concrete. These edgings add style and can increase your curb appeal. They cost $6 to $15 per linear foot.

Some people attempt DIY projects, but working with concrete requires specialized skills and commercial-grade equipment that is expensive to rent. In addition, a contractor will charge you for site preparation and materials.

Durability

Concrete is used in many places because of its durability, and a well-constructed concrete driveway can last up to 30 years. It can also withstand more weight than asphalt and requires less maintenance. A professional concrete contractor will prepare a sub-base of gravel and tamp it down to create an even surface, and lay rebar for strength.

The concrete pour generally involves a crew of workers who work quickly to fill forms with wet concrete and finish the surface before it hardens. The crew will also form expansion grooves into the wet concrete at prescribed intervals to allow for natural settling and shifting.

A concrete driveway can become damaged over time, but a good contractor will offer repair options that can save you money. These repairs can range from patching and repairing small cracks to resurfacing and recoloring the surface. They can also repair a sinking or uneven driveway by raising and leveling the concrete apron.

Appearance

Concrete is the most aesthetically pleasing and durable material available for driveways. It’s an ideal choice for homeowners who want to enhance their property’s aesthetic and value. Concrete can be stained, colored, or coated to add beauty and function to a driveway. A concrete contractor can help you choose the best option for your needs.

A concrete driveway can also be crafted with pavers to add texture and interest. This large, modern home features a concrete driveway with a red brick border that complements the rest of the front home exterior.

A simple, minimalist design can make a concrete driveway look elegant and stylish. In this example, a black concrete driveway is paired with gravel to add texture and contrast to the landscape. A concrete paver walkway and entry gate complete the clean, contemporary look of this home’s front yard. Grasscrete, a permeable solution, allows grass to grow in the voids between concrete slabs to provide greenery and a natural aesthetic to a driveway.

Maintenance

A concrete driveway can last decades if it is properly maintained. But it can also be costly to repair if it gets damaged. The best way to avoid these problems is to hire a professional concrete contractor. These experts can create a custom design and layout to meet your needs without compromising functionality or durability. They also know how to work around any obstacles like trees or power lines without causing any damage.

Concrete is porous and absorbs water, which can cause cracks if it freezes in the climate. A small crack can become a large one quickly if it isn’t repaired immediately. It is important to keep the driveway clean of mud and other debris, as it can easily penetrate through the surface.

It is also essential to park smart, and keep vehicles away from the edges of the concrete, which are its weakest points. It is also a good idea to use alternatives for de-icing, such as coffee grounds, alfalfa meal, or kitty litter, rather than salt, which can cause the concrete to crack and crumble.

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