Construction Work Is Meaningful Work

When it's time to replace your driveway, consider concrete paving. It's not only attractive, but concrete is also highly durable and relatively low maintenance. There are also a variety of options so your paving can be as unique as your home. 

1. Poured Concrete

The most common type of concrete driveway is the poured concrete driveway. These are installed as poured slabs with expansion joints between them to minimize cracking and shifting. The concrete can be left its natural gray color, or dyed to nearly any color desired. A poured concrete driveway is also the most cost-effective concrete drive solution. 

2. Concrete Block

Concrete doesn't have to be poured into place. You can opt to have the concrete block or pavers installed instead. The biggest benefit of a concrete block is that it is ready to use immediately as there is no curing time. The main drawback is maintenance, as weeds and grass can grow between the blocks in an unmaintained driveway. You can choose from solid blocks, or lattice-style blocks that have openings to allow grass growth and water permeability. 

3. Aggregate Mix

One concern with concrete is in wet and icy climates, where the smoother surface can be slick and dangerous. Mixing a decorative stone aggregate into the topmost layer of the concrete will add much more traction for both foot traffic and your vehicles. The stone is sealed into an epoxy layer so it won't loosen over time. You can choose the color and type of stone so it complements your home's exterior. 

4. Stamped Concrete

If your desire is for a beautiful brick or stone driveway but cost and maintenance are a concern, then stamped concrete is the solution. The concrete mix can be dyed to match the color of the desired material, such as terracotta for a brick look. Your contractor will then stamp the poured concrete before it cures so that it will look just like the desired material, whether it is brick, cobblestone, or flagstone. 

5. Permeable Concrete

Standard concrete is made with very fine particles which makes the finished product dense. Permeable concrete replaces some of the fine particles, with larger, more angular particles. The larger particles create some voids in the concrete, which increases water permeability. This is a good thing in damp climates or areas with standing water, as the excess moisture can seep through the driveway paving instead of collecting on top and causing potholes. 

Contact a concrete driveway service for more assistance when choosing the concrete style for your drive.