How to Find a Concrete Driveway Near Me

Concrete contractors offer a wide range of driveway and flatwork services. Driveways are often one of the first exterior surfaces to show wear and tear due to everyday traffic.

Laying a concrete driveway is not a DIY-friendly project, especially when it’s a large area. Professional concrete contractors are skilled at preparing the site, concreting and finishing the surface.

Cost

Your new concrete driveway will have a higher initial cost than an asphalt one, but it will last longer and add value to your home. The best way to get the most out of your investment is to find a contractor who offers free quotes for your project and can complete it within your desired timeframe and budget.

A basic concrete driveway costs about $6 per square foot to install or replace, depending on size and complexity. Add-ons such as textured surfaces or color will raise the price, but they can make your driveway look unique and enhance curb appeal.

It’s important to compare several contractors and read reviews to ensure you’re getting the most for your money. However, don’t shop solely on price; the lowest bid may end up costing you in the long run if quality is sacrificed for speed and convenience. Also, look for contractors with positive customer feedback regarding reliability, responsiveness and other factors that matter most to you.

Durability

Concrete is one of the most durable driveway materials. When it is poured correctly with an appropriate mix design, a well-constructed concrete slab can last for decades. It can withstand the weight of cars, trucks and even heavy equipment. If it is exposed to freezing temperatures, however, untreated concrete will develop hairline cracks that expand when they freeze and may result in damage and eventual replacement.

A properly constructed concrete driveway should be sloped towards the street to eliminate standing water. This is important for drainage and to prevent moisture problems near the house foundation.

While some homeowners can successfully pour their own concrete, a large driveway project is generally best left to professionals who can excavate, prepare the site, form and pour concrete quickly and then finish it efficiently. In addition, a concrete driveway should be properly reinforced and have expansion grooves installed. These are designed to relieve stress caused by soil settling and allow the slab to shift and break in controlled places.

Curb Appeal

Your driveway is one of the first things people see when they come to your home. So it makes sense to invest in a concrete driveway that is visually appealing and enhances your property. To do this, consider a colored concrete driveway that uses stains or dyes to bring out earthy hues and natural vibrancy.

A patterned concrete driveway is an eye-catching option that looks expensive and can make your home stand out from the neighborhood. You can also choose a curved driveway to make your house look less rigid and more homier.

To add even more curb appeal, flank your driveway with a masonry column or statue to draw the eye and complement your home’s exterior design. Adding a lush garden or greenery can also boost the curb appeal of your driveway. And if you want to make your driveway really pop, install lighting that illuminates the surface at night. According to top real estate agents, well-lit curb appeal is key for a successful home sale.

Maintenance

A concrete driveway can last decades with little maintenance. However, the concrete surface will eventually start to deteriorate due to weather or age and may begin to show cracking, discoloration or settlement. If left unchecked, this can lead to costly repairs or even replacement.

The concrete surface must be regularly cleaned and sealed to protect it from the elements. It is best to use a penetrating concrete sealer that is oil-based rather than water-based, which can cause the concrete to weaken over time. Removing snow gently, avoiding de-icing agents and parking away from the edges of the concrete are also important maintenance steps to follow.

Larger repair jobs, such as patching or resurfacing, should be completed by professionals with expertise in concrete construction and repair. They should have a strong emphasis on customer service and be willing to spend as much time as needed discussing the project details with homeowners. Staining, coloring and engraving require specialized skills and equipment that are best left to the pros as well.

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