Whether you are installing a new driveway or need to replace your current pavement, your first decision will be to choose between asphalt and concrete pavement. In Central Texas, concrete driveways are very popular. The weather plays a significant part in determining the best pavement; hot summers tend to favor concrete, while extremely cold winters encourage homeowners to choose asphalt driveways. In other words, the weather in Central Texas favors concrete driveways.
Advantages of a Concrete Driveway
A concrete driveway is attractive even when unadorned, but colors and patterns can be added to create a driveway that is uniquely yours. Concrete driveways are long-lasting, providing up to 30 years of service with proper maintenance. A concrete drive will require less maintenance than an asphalt or gravel driveway; maintenance is often as little as cleaning leaked automotive fluids and sealing any cracks that develop.
What You Should Know About Concrete Driveways
Concrete’s longevity depends primarily on the quality of the initial installation, so always work with a reputable, experienced contractor. Look for a contractor who has references from former customers, is fully insured, has all of the necessary equipment and is willing to provide you with a written, detailed quote.
You cannot expect your new driveway to be ready for traffic the same day that the contractor begins work. If there is existing pavement, it will have to be removed. The ground will then need to be graded and compacted. The base will have to be constructed, forms will need to be placed and the concrete poured and finished. All of these steps can take up to 10 days to complete. Once the contractor is finished, you will need to wait two or three days for the concrete to cure before you start using your new driveway.
Ask your contractor how long you should protect your new pavement from water. Contractors typically advise that you refrain from using your sprinklers for at least 48 hours after your concrete driveway is installed.
When you find cracks in your concrete, you should have them professionally repaired as soon as possible. Cracks allow water to reach the base and subgrade, and if erosion occurs, your concrete can suffer extensive damage.
If you have any unusual drainage issues, be sure that you discuss possible solutions with your contractor. For example, he may recommend that you install curbs to protect against runoff from the neighbor’s property or install a drain if your driveway slopes down to your garage.
Although the initial cost of a concrete driveway will be more than for a comparable asphalt driveway, your lifetime costs will typically be less. Concrete driveways usually last longer than asphalt driveways, and concrete also requires less maintenance than asphalt, resulting in additional savings.
Make a Good First Impression
Your driveway is often the first thing that people notice about your home. A professionally installed concrete driveway can do wonders for enhancing the curb appeal of your property. Make sure that your property is making a good first impression by recognizing the importance of a beautiful driveway.
To Learn More
Alpha Paving offers a full range of concrete and asphalt services to customers in most locations in Central Texas. Our crews are committed to professionalism, superior workmanship and outstanding customer service. Our services include concrete paving, curbing, asphalt paving, concrete and asphalt repairs, pavement markings, sealcoating and asphalt overlays. We offer our services to many types of customers, including airports, subdivisions, municipalities, churches, schools, retailers, hotels, manufacturers, apartment complexes and restaurants. If you would like a free quote, call (512) 677-9001 or complete the online form.
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