Concrete is a great material choice for home driveways, patios, and more, thanks to its many benefits. However, there are a few things to know before installing a concrete driveway. Keep reading to learn more about the benefits of choosing this material and what to expect from a concrete driveway.
Concrete Driveway Benefits
When selecting your driveway material, you probably discovered some of the benefits of using concrete. However, do you know all the benefits that concrete has to offer? Concrete is incredibly durable, and it can also handle heavy load-bearing vehicles and other forms of weight, making it perfect for driveways. Concrete is also a low-maintenance choice that will last for decades with the right repairs. It’s even environmentally friendly and fantastic for your property value.
Types of Concrete To Choose
There are several types of concrete you can choose from when paving your driveway. Many homeowners choose mixed aggregate concrete or opt for simple plain concrete due to its clean appearance. However, if you’re interested in a more appealing driveway, try concrete stencils. Stamped and decorated concrete is a smart choice when you wish to recreate the appearance of cobblestone or brick while maintaining the durability of concrete. There are many interesting patterns for stamped concrete that you can choose from.
Care and Maintenance Needs
If you’re looking for a low-maintenance material for your driveway, concrete is the way to go. All you need to do to maintain your concrete is clean it regularly with a pressure washer and bristle brush. You may want to hire a contractor or service to handle the pressure washing, however, as this task can require some expertise. There are many more important tips for concrete care to follow that can keep your driveway looking like new, but cleaning it is among the most important.
How Long They Last
As mentioned, concrete has the potential to last for decades as long as you keep it in the right condition. Practice the proper care and maintenance, and your concrete driveway could last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. Pay attention to and address the condition of your driveway, especially during the changing seasons, to minimize long-term damage that could eat into its lifespan.
Adding a concrete driveway increases the functionality and value of your home in one project. Now that you understand everything to know before installing a concrete driveway, you can get to work by choosing a contractor and selecting the type of concrete you want.