When it comes to installing a driveway, there are a wide range of different options for materials and style, but one you’ll see most often is concrete. While you may think of concrete as quite a drab material, in recent years there have been many new design options coming to the market, and so you may not even realise that certain driveways have been made in concrete. Here are just a few of the reasons why this humble material is the best choice for your drive.
If you want to learn more about concrete driveways, check out our resources:
1. How Much Does a Concrete Driveway Cost
2. Asphalt vs Concrete Driveways: Why Concrete Is Often the Better Choice
3. How Long Does It Take for Driveway Sealant to Dry?
4. Concrete Driveway Installation
5. What Are The Most Common Types of Concrete Driveways?
6. Modern Concrete Driveway Ideas
- Strength
One of the main advantages of concrete is its strength, and if properly installed and maintained, it shouldn’t crack or sag like asphalt. Concrete is very durable, so even if you park your heavy vehicles on it regularly, it can last for up to 30 years, so you get the most out of your investment.
- Low maintenance option
Driveways made of concrete don’t require large amounts of maintenance, but some things you should do include:
- Use a sealant yearly to protect it from weather
- Remove stains such as oil and mud immediately
- Avoid using salt or de-icing chemicals in winter
- Ensure it’s properly set before you park your vehicles
- Customise your driveway
Concrete driveways don’t have to be plain, and unlike asphalt or gravel which all look the same, there are many ways to make them more appealing. While wet, concrete can be stamped with patterns such as brick or paving designs, giving you this effect without the cost. Concrete can also be washed, which exposes the top layer of aggregate, giving it a more natural look.
- Get the shape you want
Rather than being laid, like tile, concrete is poured, which gives you an endless choice of shapes to create your driveway. Whether you want sharp bends or a curve, concrete makes it easy to achieve different styles. Got an awkwardly shaped garden? Concrete is a great option as you can use all the available space, ensuring you have plenty of space for your cars.
- It can work out the most cost-effective
Concrete won’t necessarily be the cheapest option when you install your driveway, but it’s important to think about the long-term costs, as well as the short-term outlay. A concrete driveway can last up to 30 years, so the average person will have their driveway for as long as they live in the home, giving you plenty of years to use it. Concrete rarely needs repairing as long as it’s looked after properly, and you won’t spend a lot of money on resurfacing or buying special chemicals to keep it looking good. Because of this, when you consider the cost over the years, concrete can be one of the most cost-effective options and a great investment for your home.
If you’re considering adding a driveway to your Melbourne home, simply call Concept Concrete for a free quote on 1300 366 343 or fill in our contact form today.
