Concrete is an inexpensive yet durable material ideal for use in constructing a driveway. When accurately installed, concrete can carry out the intended duties. It is strong and with the addition of steel reinforcement, it is much flexible.
Concrete driveways, when rightly installed can last up to fifty or more years without much maintenance required. The key word here is, however, if properly installed. It requires a proper subgrade preparation. If not laid on a good solid foundation it can crack allowing water penetration to further damage the driveway.
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Concrete, when properly finished has a very clean appearance. It can be colored and stamped giving it the appearance of natural stone at an additional cost. You may get in touch with a trusted local contractor to see what attractive options are available in your area as well as confirm the cost.
If you are scheduling to install or replace an existing driveway; it is essential to keep a watch on how are the other driveways constructed in your neighborhood? It may be best to understand the established standards of the existing neighborhood. There are design tips and cost estimates available online as well.
What can be the Cost of concrete driveways?
Less maintenance, long-lasting, and cost-effective are the top three attributes that one can expect with a concrete driveway. The cost can range from $6 per square foot to more than $15 per square foot depending upon the design and coloring effects one chooses. If you are looking for something that gives a natural stone look, patterns, or pavers without the cost associated with those authentic materials; you can always try these. With these driveways, you have the additional comfort of having an enduring surface that is robust and wear-resistant in the harshest environments. The amazing part is it necessitates little maintenance. Furthermore, the design options and customization choices are nearly endless.
This could be an excellent material choice because of its flexibility. It can be used for paving, fire pits, outdoor counters, and even patio furniture. When it comes to texture choices and color, the option is plentiful. Use the style palettes below as guides to discovering how concrete can be used outdoors to achieve a specific look.
How thick is a concrete driveway?
As far as thickness is concerned, it is generally four inches thick which is standard for passenger car driveways. For heavier vehicles, however, a thickness of five inches is suggested. To do away with standing water, the driveway should be sloped in the direction of the street a minimum of one percent, or 1/8 inch per foot, for good drainage.
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How to Build a Concrete Driveway?
Mentioned below are some of the easy and effective tips to build concrete driveways.
- Develop a plan for your driveway
- Do a cost estimate of the driveway
- Confirm with the local jurisdictional agencies and decide what engineering and permitting requirements may affect your driveway.
- Find out the soil bearing characteristics of your project site
- Lay out the sides of your driveway
- Calculate the width of the drive.
- Remove grass from the driveway location
- Determine if there are any underground utilities that should be modified or installed before adding fill material or setting forms
- Install the forms for your driveway
- Grade the fill material or existing soil so that your slab of concrete will be of correct depth or thickness.
- Compact the fill material using a plate compactor
- Install reinforcing steel if desired.
- Plan your pour carefully
- Finish the slab as desired.
- Cure the concrete.
- Test drive your driveway
- Remove the forms, and repair the landscaping along the edges where the lawn was damaged in the forming process.
