If you are planning to build or renovate your driveway, one of the best materials that you can use is concrete. A concrete driveway tends to be more durable compared to using materials like gravel or dirt. They are low-maintenance and cost-effective, unlike using paving stones.
Here are some of the top reasons for you to choose concrete as the primary material for your driveway.
A concrete driveway is weather-resistant
Concrete performs better than other materials in terms of exposure to the elements, both during installation and over time. It is suited for areas with frequent downpours because water doesn’t damage concrete the way it damages gravel or asphalt driveways.
Concrete is also able to withstand very hot weather conditions. It can resist damage caused by ultraviolet radiation, especially with proper maintenance. Materials like asphalt tends to soften and become oily when temperatures rise.
Concrete driveways are versatile
Using concrete helps you make the most out of the benefits of driveways. You aren’t limited to certain designs such as a flat finish or a black concrete driveway. Instead, you can use concrete finishes to create a brushed concrete driveway and virtually any other design you can think of.
Concrete is the perfect choice if you want to make your driveway a focal point for your home’s curb appeal. Some of the best ones are those that have unique textures and templates.
A concrete driveway is cost-effective
Although other materials like asphalt can cost you less in terms of upfront expenses, concrete driveways last longer and require less maintenance. With its lifespan and maintenance costs over 2 to 3 decades, concrete driveways are cheaper. The higher installation costs are offset by its long-term benefits.
Just remember that your costs can double if you are going for a colored or stamped concrete finish or if you want to know how to pour a concrete driveway in sections. You’ll also need to pay more if you still need to demolish your existing driveway before have a new one installed.
Concrete driveways last longer
If you are wondering how long does a concrete driveway last, remember that it typically has twice or thrice the lifespan of asphalt driveways. They typically stay functional for up to 50 years, as long as they’re installed and maintained correctly.
What makes a good driveway is its ability to live up to your expectations. However, you should also do your part and provide it with proper care to ensure that it lasts you longer.
Concrete reflects heat and light
Depending on where you are located, you can stand to benefit so much from the heat reflecting abilities of concrete driveways. Concrete absorbs less heat and radiation. This means that if you live in a place that regularly sees sunny days, you’ll benefit from having cooler driveways.
Furthermore, since concrete driveways reflect light, you’ll be able to save more on your energy bills for its lifetime.