You may be considering upgrading your driveway because it is beginning to show signs of wear and tear. You could be also considering replacing your driveway because you would like to improve your home’s overall curb appeal. Concrete driveways are a great option because of their durability and versatility in their design. With the help of concrete contractors, you can obtain the design and look that can match your home’s exterior. There are a number of benefits that concrete driveways have and here is an in-depth look at why they should be highly considered.
Curb appeal
A driveway contributes significantly to a home’s curb appeal. For those in the building or flipping market, you may understand the value of a visually appealing driveway. Everyone driving by will notice it, and anyone visiting will be able to park in it. A concrete driveway will undoubtedly improve the curb appeal of your home. Concrete has a clean and modern appearance. Due to the various shapes and designs available, it can be tailored to fit any style. Concrete can be one of the most flexible driveway materials. Concrete driveways also pair well with some mulch and landscaping nearby. Since the slabs are generally very large and gray in color, any landscaping or mulch around them really stands out and contrasts with the overall look.
Higher Load-bearing capacity
One of the major benefits of choosing a concrete driveway is its ability to withstand heavy loads without experiencing damage. Since concrete is a rigorous material, it can withstand heavier weights better than other common driveway materials. While your driveway is just typically designed for your vehicles, you never know when a larger vehicle will arrive on your property. Trucks and large loads on a concrete surface can not cause flexing and distortion of the pavement layers. Whereas other surfaces distort quickly under large loads due to weak compositions, low pavement thickness, and a lack of compression.
Long-lasting
The longevity and low maintenance of concrete driveways can be well worth the investment. Concrete driveways can last for 30 years or longer without cracking if the installation quality and the foundation are done correctly. It will last if the driveway base is properly built and the concrete is poured on solid flat ground. You should also ensure that the driveway is thick enough and made of high-quality concrete with the proper psi. Most cracked concrete driveways are caused by a problem with the sub-base or the concrete itself. If you want a long-lasting concrete driveway, it may be advisable going an extra inch thick. In that case, 5′′ is much more durable than 4′′.
Highly customizable
One of the most significant advantages of a concrete driveway is its versatility. It is common that concrete can be viewed as a large gray slab. However, there are numerous finishing options and designs available. Grid patterns, texturing, colors, stamps, and various borders and inlays are just a few customizing options. These custom features can give your home’s exterior even more character and personality. However, if you prefer the look of natural concrete, keeping it natural and not colored is the route to go. Concrete driveways are an excellent choice for any home style. Concrete complements everything from the most traditional aesthetic to modern homes. Since there are numerous styles to choose from, it is simple to customize the design to fit any home.
Increased home value
A concrete driveway can add a lot of value to your home and enhance its curb appeal, making your home look well-maintained and inviting. If you plan to place your home on the market today or in the future, you can rest assured that having a concrete driveway as a feature will not only improve your curb appeal but also increase the sale price of your home. Due to the aesthetic look of concrete, its durability, and its relatively low maintenance, it is a desirable feature for potential buyers.
Ease of maintenance
Concrete driveways require little maintenance, but it is important to keep them clean and sealed. A good scrubbing every now and then will keep them looking new. They will not be harmed by being dirty, so this is strictly for cosmetic purposes. A good concrete sealer can also add an extra layer of protection. At least once a year, a sealer should be applied. Driveways that experience harsh winters would be advised to seal the surface in the fall to withstand road salts and the colder temperatures. However, it is not required to seal a concrete driveway to ensure longevity but it does help.
Reap the benefits with proper installation
Although it is possible for a homeowner to pour a concrete driveway themselves, it can be a challenging task. Time is a critical element because once the concrete is poured, it begins to harden very quickly. For this reason, it is highly recommended to leave this project to concrete contractors who can excavate, prepare forms, pour the concrete, and finish the surface quickly. A professional concrete contractor can do the entire project in a couple of days, while a homeowner usually takes a week or more for excavation and preparation alone, and another very long day for pouring and finishing. Along with faster installation, a skilled concrete contractor’s experience and knowledge can lead to a properly installed driveway surface that can reap the benefits mentioned above. In contrast, proper installation can lead to a driveway surface that is not as durable, require more maintenance, and reduce your home’s appeal.
For decades, concrete has been one of the most preferred driveway materials, and for good reason. There are so many advantages to having a concrete driveway that it is difficult not to admire them. Concrete is a very robust and long-lasting material. It can readily support the weight of even the biggest vehicle, and it is not easily affected by weather conditions. Concrete can withstand the high temperatures in the summer and the harsh cold of the winter. It is also an appealing construction material with several styling possibilities including coloring, texturing, stamping, and a variety of patterns. While it can also complement any architectural style, from traditional to modern. Concrete should definitely be considered while selecting a material for your upcoming driveway.