Concrete Driveways
Concrete Driveways are occasionally incorrectly referred to as cement driveways. Still, the term cement denotes one component: Portland cement is used in the concrete mixture. Concrete is a complex material made up of various types of stone aggregate. Held together with water, sand and cement. Cement powder is crushed limestone and clay required for strength. Normal concrete or, stamped concrete driveway construction is formed with gravel-sized aggregates, but finer sands can be used for more refined work and smoother finished surfaces. The typical mixture used in concrete driveways, slabs and sidewalks usually have a 32 MPA Strength. Concrete driveway sealer is also added as protection from harsh weather.
When concrete is first mixed together, the slurry mix can be shaped. However, once the chemical process of curing starts, it will harden. The hardening starts roughly 5 hours after it is poured, gaining strength called MPA (or psi). The process continues for many months and can last years, although a few curing days make it hard enough for most uses. They are typically walking traffic. It is recommended that you don’t park your vehicles on the driveway of new concrete for minimal 28 days to acquire enough strength.
Residential Concrete
Concrete for residential driveways is exceptionally durable. Your typical finish is a standard grey broom finish, however colour or a rubber stamp to mimic the look of slate stone, brick or layer pavers for a fraction of the total cost. However, stamped concrete driveways allow versatile custom designs that can be created to give your home a unique entrance and style. Adding concrete driveway sealer allows protection and a wet glossy look.
Concrete Benefits
Our Canadian climate is not the easiest on concrete. It poses a challenge due to the changing seasons. Freeze-thaw and chemical factors can impact your concrete. That is why it is important to use the right concrete contractor for you project. Strength, durability and finishing can make or break your project. Concrete is a multipurpose material that can be used to transform your house’s exterior.
Concrete is a sturdy, durable material, rebar is also used to help keep its original shape. Rebar is typically laid anywhere from 16-inch centers up to 24-inch centers depending on the project requirements. However, due to environmental challenges, it will crack over time. Cracking can happen for many different reasons and is not the fault of the contractor. But things such as lack of control joints, improper strength and excess water can cause your concrete to crack. Concrete is ideal for most driveways because of its qualities, but cars leave oil stains or tire marks. Abuse from salt or chemical deicers will also damage your concrete.
Concrete Contractor Edmonton
Today’s concrete presents many options and methods available to help you turn your exterior concrete into something amazing. Concrete is very affordable, and by having the right contractor pour your new concrete driveway, you will be happy with the end result. Stamped concrete driveways provide curb appeal. It takes years of experience and requires a skilled worker to avoid the problems listed above.
Speaking with a Concrete Doctors representative can help bring your to project to life. We will provide you with recommendations. By accenting your colour to your home, it enhances the homes overall curb appeal. Let us help in picking the different patterns and designs for the project scope. We know sometimes choosing the right decorative concrete stamp can be overwhelming decision. Let us help by booking a quote.