A home improvement project is one of the most inspiring endeavors in any home. Adding the various things that you want to update can be fun when you think of how the upgrade will impact the look of your home. However, most homeowners overlook the exteriors, and this is particularly true for the driveway. A new driveway should form part of your project and will provide a smooth and safer surface for your vehicles.
Why install a new concrete driveway during home improvement?
A concrete driveway comes with many benefits and will enhance the look and appeal of your home. Concrete blocks come in various colors and texture and looks clean. They will lighten up your home exteriors and add style to your home.
That’s not all, though! Concrete is tough and lasts longer compared to other materials. It requires minimal maintenance, which cuts on maintenance costs. Again, concrete in its raw nature is deemed to be a green building material.
It’s less harmful, and you can recycle your older concrete driveways into aggregate. With a concrete driveway, you raise the resale value of your home. The appealing looks will entice potential buyers, making it easy to sell your home when need be.
What do I need to know when installing a concrete driveway?
- The driveway design is key!
Concrete driveways come in different designs, and this determines the overall look of your home. Choose the right shape, size and route to match your needs. Also, get a permit from your local municipality and determine the right amount of concrete required. This makes it critical to engage a professional, and houston concrete contractors will tell you that you need a minimum thickness of four inches. Otherwise, your driveway won’t support heavy vehicles and will crack.
- Preparation is necessary
Once you have chosen the most appropriate design, the next step would be to prepare your space. Dig out the dirt and pepper the subgrade. The procedure used will depend on the type of soil on your driveway. The most common soil types are clay, loam, and sandy, and the contractor will compact and level the ground before pouring the concrete. For a more solid finish, add a type of reinforcement on top of the subgrade.
- 3. Concrete mixing should be thorough.
Mix the concrete thoroughly before pouring. The type of mix will depend on the desired results. Also, the contractor will use different ways to discharge the concrete, and the most common method involves pouring from a truck. In his case, you’ll need a wheelbarrow to move the concrete and fill up the section of the driveway. The concrete should be even and sloppy to ensure proper drainage.
- Cure the driveway
Once the construction is over, cure your driveway by adding a moisture-retaining barrier. Also, use a sealant to avoid staining and stay off the surface when the driveway is curing. The process may take 3-7 days, and you shouldn’t park your cars until the driveway is fully cured.
The bottom line
A concrete driveway upgrades the look and value of your home. Have it installed by a professional to avoid costly mistakes. Moreover, ensure that the contractor has the necessary skills and equipment for a successful project.
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