Advantages of a Concrete Driveway

There are many types of driveways, from gravel to cobblestone and even asphalt. However, concrete driveways are the most popular, and for good reason. Concrete driveways offer numerous benefits that other types of driveways can’t match. They are low maintenance, durable, aesthetically pleasing, and easy to customize. As long as you have a reputable concrete company do your driveway, you will be happy with the results. Read on to learn more about the advantages of concrete driveways.

Concrete Driveways are Low Maintenance

One of the biggest benefits of concrete driveways is that they require little maintenance. A driveway that has been properly poured and sealed will last for years with almost no maintenance. The only concrete maintenance that you will have to do is to wash it off on occasion.

In contrast, other types of driveways require far more maintenance. Gravel driveways, for example, require maintenance much more frequently than concrete driveways. While gravel driveways may be cheaper than concrete driveways initially, you should keep in mind that the long-term costs of a gravel driveway may be higher because of the higher maintenance costs.

Concrete Driveways are Durable

Concrete driveways are also very durable. While driveways made from other materials, such as cobblestones or pavers, may look good they are not durable. This means you will end up spending a lot of time and money having them repaired.

Concrete, on the other hand, can stand up to years of heavy use. It can also handle the elements, even if you live in an area with frequent inclement weather.

Driveways Made From Concrete Look Great

In addition to being durable and requiring little maintenance, concrete driveways also look great. Asphalt and gravel driveways may have their advantages, but they will be an eyesore on your property. A driveway made of concrete will enhance the look of your home, especially if you have it colored or stamped with a design.

Concrete driveways offer beauty at a much more affordable price than other aesthetically pleasing materials like cobblestones or pavers. Not only is concrete more affordable up-front, it is more affordable in the long term because it required less maintenance.

It’s Easy to Customize a Concrete Driveway

Concrete driveways are also easy to customize. As previously mentioned, concrete can be colored in almost any hue you can imagine. It can also be stamped with various designs. Also, concrete can be poured into almost any shape. You can make your concrete driveway as long and wide as you want. It is also easy to create a winding concrete driveway that leads to the other side of your property.

Finding the Right Concrete Company

If you are planning on having a concrete driveway poured, you should take your time to find the right company among the concrete companies in your area. It may be tempting to simply go with the cheapest company, but this is not a good idea. Such companies often use low-quality materials and inexperienced workers. You may have to have your driveway re-done, which would be expensive.

Instead, you should find a concrete company that has many years of experience. Make sure that the company you are experiencing has successfully poured many residential driveways. Take a look at the pictures of concrete driveways that the company has posted on their website. This will give you a good idea of what they are capable of. Also, make sure to find a company that is willing to give you an estimate before starting work.

How Long To Wait To Drive Over New Asphalt

There is nothing like driving on a smooth new asphalt surface. Even though it is hard to do, you have to be patient and wait before you can use it. There are some steps you can take to help speed up the process. Continue reading to find out more information.

Can I Drive on New Asphalt Right Away?

No, it would be best if you waited two to four days before you drive on new asphalt. If you drive on it while it is wet, you can cause damage to the surface. If you can, waiting a full week is best.

How Long Does New Asphalt Take to Dry?

While asphalt is durable and lasts a long time, some time is needed when installed to ensure it dries or cures properly. The amount of time asphalt takes to dry depends on several factors.

These factors include:

  • Air Temperature
  • Climate
  • Humidity
  • Paving Thickness

The more humid or cold the weather impacts the length of time it takes for asphalt to dry. Generally, it should take two to three days, but cold or humid weather could increase drying time to a week.

How Can I Speed Up The Drying Process for Asphalt?

Asphalt companies will explain several steps you can take to speed up the drying time for asphalt.

Apply Sealcoat

A sealcoat protects your asphalt and helps it last longer. A sealcoat gives you a barrier between the asphalt and the elements that impact it, such as UV damage and water. Seal coating can also fill in any cracks in the asphalt.

Heat Lamp

A heat lamp can help speed up the drying time when you live in a colder area. You can leave the heat lamp over the asphalt for several hours. This helps to absorb moisture, so it dries faster.

No Traffic

Keep both vehicles and people off the asphalt until it has cured. If you allow traffic on it too early, it damages the surface and may allow tire marks in the asphalt.

Complete Drying Process

It takes time for the asphalt to dry completely. The asphalt construction company will give you directions about how long you should wait, and you do not want to use it before that time has elapsed. You can expect two days to one whole week before your asphalt is ready for traffic. The air temperature, humidity level, climate, and paving thickness make a difference in the amount of time it takes to dry. You may have problems if you do not allow the asphalt to dry before you use it. You may have tire marks, cracking, and other damage to your asphalt. To speed up the drying process, you should consult professional asphalt companies to ensure you are not damaging the surface.

How Can I Tell When Asphalt is Cured?

You can tell when your asphalt is cured or dry because it is hard to the touch. It will no longer feel tacky or soft or give off any fumes. You will notice the color has changed from black to gray.

What Impacts How Quickly Asphalt Can Be Cured?

Several factors impact how long it takes asphalt to cure. These include climate, humidity, air temperature, traffic, professional equipment, paving thickness, and knowledgeable installation.