While some may favor an asphalt driveway for various reasons, concrete driveways offer several advantages that make them a superior option. Here are some reasons why concrete may be the best option for your driveway:
1. Lifecycle cost
A concrete driveway installed by a reputable contractor can last up to 30 years. With little maintenance required, you can expect a concrete driveway to outlast driveways constructed out of other materials, such as asphalt. This means you can expect to spend less on repairs throughout its lifecycle.
2. Ease of maintenance
Although they need maintenance, driveways tend to be overlooked by most homeowners. Still, having a driveway that doesn't require frequent maintenance doesn't hurt.
With concrete driveways, you only need occasional cleaning with a hose and pressurized water, accompanied by concrete sealing.
3. High load-bearing capacity
Over time, you can expect your driveway to slowly cave and buck under the weight of vehicles, especially if you have big trucks or vans parked in the space.
Concrete handles such loads better than materials like asphalt, making your driveway less likely to cave and split under pressure over time.
4. Customizability
Concrete driveways can be customized for better aesthetics, as they can be stamped with patterns when wet. They can also be washed, which exposes the top layer and gives it a more natural look.
Also, because it is poured, instead of being laid like asphalt, you can create shapes with it, such as bends and curves.
5. Eco-friendly
Asphalt mixing requires heating up to temperatures as high as 200-250 Fahrenheit. Also, the seal coating is made up of petroleum products, which aren't eco-friendly as they contribute to the depletion of the earth's natural resources. Far less energy is required to prepare concrete. Plus, the material is recyclable.
6. Zero surface mess
The oil residues after an asphalt installation can be messy when you tread over it. Plus, this oil can cause issues. On extremely hot days, small pieces of asphalt can stick to the underneath of your shoes, which you may track into your home and vehicles. You can avoid the mess entirely by installing concrete driveways.
Ideal concrete mix for driveways
Typically, your driveway concrete mix should have these characteristics:
At least 4000 psi
Five to 7 percent air entrainment
Maximum water/cementitious ratio of .45
The structural integrity of your driveway is at risk if the slab is too thin or uneven. So, it's ideal to use at least a minimum of 4 inches for driveways. Regarding the finish, you can use a traditional broom finish as it roughens the surface, providing friction in icy and slippery conditions.
Also, you should avoid deicing agents for a year after installation. Using concrete sealers also protects against the impact of deicers, reducing undesired staining.
Choose the right contractor for a stunning, long-lasting concrete driveway
Better to have a sturdy, long-lasting driveway than one that's prone to damage and will require constant fixes and drain your pocket before it reaches the end of its lifecycle.
At Goliath Exteriors, we have a team of expert home remodelers who can tackle your concrete work with an eye for design and detail. Get a free quote now.