In colder climates where ice and snow are common, it is tempting to use de-icing chemicals, such as salt or calcium chloride, to melt ice on the driveway. However, these chemicals can be harmful to concrete and accelerate its deterioration. Use sand or other non-corrosive materials for traction instead, and promptly remove any ice or snow buildup.
To help ensure a problem-free driveway, be sure to read our overview of driveway construction basics. Lumber prices can vary widely from region to region and from one season to the next. Driveway contractors need lumber to build the forms that shape your driveway, so if lumber prices are high, the average cost of your new driveway will also increase. The number of 2×4 lumber pieces required will vary based on the size of the driveway being built. Some of the main factors affecting concrete driveway cost include the concrete size and thickness, the driveway design and shape, site preparation, and the cost of labor. Start your driveway deciding on the driveway’s shape, width, length, and route, and use these measurements to calculate how much concrete and the amount of reinforcements you’ll need.
Do I Need to Install Concrete Reinforcement?
Can reduce corrosion of reinforcement in reinforced concrete by up to four times. Sphaericuscan induce calcium carbonate precipitation in the surface of cracks, adding compression strength. Crystalline admixtures are typically added during batching of the concrete to lower permeability. Concrete with crystalline admixture can expect to self-seal as constant exposure to water will continuously initiate crystallization to ensure permanent waterproof protection.
Contractors are quite capable of assessing how to prepare the concrete’s foundation and pour the concrete so it maintains the proper grade. A concrete driveway costs more than alternatives such as asphalt or bitumen, but it will usually last longer, with more heat tolerance in the summer and less maintenance required across its lifespan. An exposed aggregate concrete driveway costs around $100 to $150 per square metre, depending on the type you choose. On an 18m2 driveway, the cost for exposed aggregate can be anywhere between $1,800 and $2,700. Separate paste mixing has shown that the mixing of cement and water into a paste before combining these materials with aggregates can increase the compressive strength of the resulting concrete. The paste is generally mixed in a high-speed, shear-type mixer at a w/c of 0.30 to 0.45 by mass.
Tips for Maintaining and Protecting a New Concrete Driveway
Clay soils, for example, are more likely to expand and contract than other soil types, making them particularly poor as a subgrade material. To minimize cracking, you may need to increase the driveway thickness so it can better withstand this movement. Generally, a minimum thickness of 4 inches is sufficient for a residential concrete driveway supporting a standard passenger vehicle or SUV weighing between 3,000 to 6,000 pounds. If you anticipate heavier loads from truck traffic or a large RV , you may need to increase the thickness to 5 or 6 inches to provide the necessary support. Learn about the factors that can affect the thickness requirements of a residential concrete driveway and how to determine the best driveway thickness for your home. After interviewing several contractors and reviewing their proposals, it’s time to make a decision. The best driveway concreting service will be the one that proves capable of completing your project within the necessary timeframe, within your budget.
Combining all of those elements helps create a firm and durable surface that can withstand heavy use. Though asphalt driveways are more prone to getting potholes, it’s possible that a concrete driveway could experience potholes from worn-out or poorly laid concrete. Any area that’s more exposed to wet conditions is prone to deteriorate more quickly. Stamping a driveway has become a popular option for homeowners who want to achieve a stone or wood look without the cost or impracticability of unsuitable materials. For $8 to $15 per square foot, a contractor can stamp the wet concrete in any pattern you’ve agreed on. Choose from paving stone designs, inlaid brick, or even wood planks to spruce up your concrete driveway. Permits aren’t always required before building a driveway, but it’s best to check with your local authorities anyway.
