Are you planning to redo your driveway this year? The driveway is often the last thing that people choose to do when they are renovating their homes because it’s something that comes with the outside of the property rather than the inside. It makes sense, given that the inside of the property is where people would prefer to focus their renovation efforts. But that doesn’t mean that you shouldn’t look at your driveway first and foremost.
The curb appeal of the outside of your house is as important as the comfort on the inside, whether you’re using commercial concrete to relay your driveway or you choose to replace the whole thing with gravel. You really do need to think about what material you’d prefer, but honestly, we think concrete is best. With an abundance of materials that are available in the market, you do have a lot of choice when it comes to your driveway. So let’s take a look at some of the reasons that concrete should be your top choice.
- It’s an eco-friendly option. Concrete is consumed on such a large scale that it doesn’t have a low ecological footprint. It’s actually pretty high, but this is countered by the fact that it’s got a long life and it’s durable. It takes a lot less energy to build a concrete surface than other surfaces involved. Additionally, those who are contractors of concrete driveways use recycled materials from demolished sites more often than not, which is actually going to help with your carbon footprint and give back to the planet.
- They are very easy to maintain. Concrete is so much easier to maintain than gravel, which would need replacing, and asphalt. Once a colored concrete driveway has been paved, it doesn’t require any maintenance beyond that, unless you want to wash it down to clear winter debris. It’s a sturdy option and it’s tough to withstand the difference in temperatures, moisture in the air as well as pests. It’s only for the plant roots that you have to worry about but as long as you’ve cleared the space properly before you get started with filling it with concrete you should be fine.
- It’s strong and durable. Concrete is structurally durable, especially if it’s been well installed. Driveways can last for years to come if you have it installed correctly by the right contractor. Other materials can develop cracks overtime and they’ve maintenance once in a while and you can avoid that with concrete. It gets stronger with time and has a very high tensile strength.Initially the investment in concrete may be higher, but you can save a lot of money in the long run.
- It just looks fantastic. Concrete driveways can be great when you’re trying to improve the property’s curb appeal, which is going to go a long way if you plan to sell at some point. Many contractors stained and finished surfaces as well, so you’ll be able to have a different colour if you want something better than Gray.
