As a homeowner, it is natural to strive for the ideal condition of your abode, including keeping the lawn well-manicured, maintaining a fresh coat of paint on the exterior, and promptly addressing any necessary repairs. However, driveways often go overlooked until they present a problem.
Concrete driveways, the most frequently seen kind of driveway today, are one of the most common types of driveways. However, they also need to be cared for and maintained properly. Below, we’ll look at everything you need to know about concrete driveways, including how they’re made, what kind of maintenance they need, and what kind of a use-life you’re looking at!
How is Concrete as a Material?
Most of the time, it won’t be just any old concrete you can find on the market, but a special type called Portland cement concrete. This mixture has to be made in certain proportions so that it has the right strength and durability for use as a driveway or any other surface where traffic will be passing over it regularly.
In many cases, you’ll see concrete constructions reinforced by the placement of steel metal rebar inside them. This is done to make the concrete stronger and more durable against cracking and other issues that can arise with use.
You’ll also see many different types of concrete out there, including colored versions that can be used for decorative purposes rather than just as a utilitarian driveway material.
Why Do People Choose Concrete?
The main reason why people choose concrete over other materials is because it’s stronger than asphalt, which makes it more durable. A concrete driveway will last much longer than an asphalt driveway because it’s not susceptible to cracks or cracks forming on the surface.
This saves you money in the long run because repairs do not have to be done as often as they would with asphalt.
Why Should You Get a Concrete Driveway?
These are a popular choice for homeowners who want to add value to their homes. They’re also a great investment, as concrete can last for decades without fading or cracking.
A concrete driveway is an excellent way to protect your home’s foundation, which can help avoid water damage and prevent costly repairs down the road. A properly installed concrete driveway will also add beauty and appeal to your home’s exterior, making it more appealing to potential buyers.
Here’s why you should get a concrete driveway:
- It’s durable: Concrete driveways are built to last. They’re made with high-quality materials that won’t fade or crack over time like other materials can do (including asphalt). This makes them more resilient against natural disasters like hurricanes and earthquakes that can damage other types of driveways.
- It’s easy: Concrete installation involves the utilization of cement mixer trucks that move along the construction site, dispensing substantial quantities of concrete in a single pour. This approach eliminates the need for concerns about limited space for each pour or the possibility of gaps between pours that could lead to leaks.
- It’s cheap: Concrete driveways are less expensive than asphalt or brick ones because they don’t require any sealers or coatings like asphalt does. In addition, concrete doesn’t require as much maintenance as other materials do — such as painting or staining — so you won’t have to worry about spending too much money on these items over time.
- It’s long-lasting: Concrete is a strong material that lasts for decades. It can withstand heavy traffic and it won’t crack, chip or flake as many other materials do. It’s also resistant to moisture, so you won’t have to worry about it cracking when it rains or if there are puddles in your driveway.
What Kind of Maintenance Do Concrete Driveways Require?
While you’ll mostly hear that concrete driveways require little-to-no maintenance, that’s not the best idea if you want to keep your driveway in its best condition. Thankfully, it’s very easy to clean concrete: a simple scrubbing with a hose and a stiff-wire brush will get the job done.
If you don’t want to apply a sealer every single year, go for it every two years so that it’s kept in the best condition possible.
The Takeaway
At the end of the day, concrete driveways are excellent for homeowners looking to install a driveway that will last for many years. Concrete is easy to maintain and can be designed to match almost any aesthetic or style of home.
