Most homes have concrete driveways in Melbourne and that comes as no surprise at all. It is perhaps one of the most convenient and practical driveway types to install. No doubt, it will be an easy pick for a driveway any day. However, do you know other essential implications and details of a concrete driveway?
Before having a concrete driveway to your home, it is important to know its components and understand its overall benefits. This way, you are assured that a concrete driveway is indeed the best for the residence. Remember, having a concrete driveway goes beyond skin-deep. Let this article provide more details.
So, are you ready to have some concrete driveway 101? Let’s get started then…
What is a concrete driveway in Melbourne?
Let’s not get this complicated. The concrete driveway is one that uses one of the strongest construction materials- concrete. A concrete driveway is known for being versatile, low maintenance, and durable.
Why?
Versatile
Concrete driveways can look as traditional as it can get and still looks classic. However, concrete driveways can also be styled in different ways. One of the most common design approaches is concrete stamping. Many establishments and residences have used this method of driveway design as it looks gorgeous. Concrete stamping adds texture and visual appeal to the traditional driveway which levels up its design and aesthetics.
Low maintenance
Low maintenance equates to practicality which every homeowner prefers. After installation, you can leave the concrete driveway in Melbourne alone to some extent. Of course, it is a given to still take good care of it. However, it’s meant to stay that way for a long time. If cracks show, reapplication of sealant may do the trick.
Durable
Ever wondered why the term concrete jungle is coined? Because most tall skyscrapers all over the world are made of concrete. Concrete for many years (in fact, centuries) has proven to be ideal for construction. It can withstand earthquakes, high winds, and even extreme weather conditions. With concrete used in driveways, it is guaranteed to perform the same way.
Process of concrete driveway preparation
There is a process necessary to undertake in preparing for a concrete driveway. Such a process is to ensure that every step is followed and well-executed. Though having a concrete driveway is not as intricate as other driveway types, different measures are deemed necessary for best results.
Planning
Planning significantly reduces the risk of problems that may arise as the construction process is ongoing. Here are essential components of the planning process:
Driveway size
The ideal size of a single-car driveway is around 8 to 9 feet and 15 to 18 feet double width. It is also important to take note of the distance between the street and the initial entry approach. If it is wide enough, then extra space for parking may be included. The planning stage should also include the opportunity to add a concrete patio or porch if it can be accommodated.
Driveway thickness
The standard driveway thickness is four inches. However, if you have bigger vehicles such as a big 4×4, vans, bus, or others that are bigger/heavier than a sedan, the thickness would have to be around 5 inches.
Design
As earlier mentioned, part of a concrete driveway in Melbourne appeal is its versatility. During the planning stage, it is essential to determine if you like traditional or stamped. Should you choose the latter, it is best to let the concreters know about the pattern or design you wish to be used. They should know how to go about it. Even better, they may even offer a bespoke or customized design according to how you want your driveway to look.
Site Preparation
This process immediately follows after deciding on the design, thickness, and size of the driveway. The site preparation includes the following:
– Existing asphalt driveway is being replaced with a concrete driveway
– Starting from scratch (no driveway has even been built, no existing driveway)
– Existing concrete driveway badly needs repair
Use of High-Quality Concrete
Ordering for the best and high-quality concrete is crucial. The quality of the concrete used shall dictate the concrete driveway’s longevity, tenacity, and durability. Here are some specifications to have in mind to ensure that the entire concreting process stays in check:
– Compressive strength- 4,000 psi at 28 days is ideal for any type of climate
– Air content- air content with a range of between 5 and 7 percent in all climates is ideal
– Slump- it is a general rule that a slump measuring more than 5 inches is not ideal and must be avoided at all costs.
– Aggregates- should you wish to add aggregates for an added design element, it is important to note that the acceptable size would be no more than an inch.
Finishing
Here are the steps included in the finishing process:
– Prepare the proper tools such as:
o Square shovel
o Screed
o Bull float
o Edging tool
o Concrete groover
o Steel trowel
– Spread the concrete by using a square shovel to have the concrete in the right place.
– Use a straight board or screed to remove the excess concrete and have the surface to the appropriate grade.
– Use a bull float to fill the gaps and level the ridges to ensure a smooth surface. Let the bleed water disappear as well.
– Make sure to round the edges using an edger. This brings the entire look together.
– Joint the slab using a grooving tool the avoid the appearance of those undesirable cracks.
– Finally, trowel the surface for that smooth and dense surface. Now, you may skip this part if you want to have a broom finish or have other decorative elements done to the surface. This has step should have already been discussed and covered during the planning stage.
Curing and Jointing
The curing stage has different methods such as:
– Use of plastic sheets to cover and shield the concrete
– Sprinkling continuously
– Application of a curing compound
This stage is crucial. Unfortunately, not many concreters pay much attention to this stage. Remember, concrete that did not cure the right way has higher chances of cracking. Also, the concrete becomes a little bit brittle and less durable.
Joints in the pavements control the spreading of cracks that’s why this is an essential step. Rule of thumb: Make sure to space the joints with a maximum of 10 feet in between for a 4-inch slab thickness. Should the driveway be wider, a joint at the center is also required.
Benefits of a concrete driveway in Melbourne
Aside from the concrete driveway being versatile, low maintenance, and durable, there are other significant benefits to it like the following:
Practicality
The simple fact that it lasts longer because of its durability, translates to less significantly less maintenance cost. It may be a little costly compared to the asphalt driveway during construction, but it makes up for the long-term. Asphalt is relatively cheaper; however, it is not as durable so you end up spending more in the future.
Effective heat and light absorption
Concrete pavements and driveways are cooler because it absorbs less UV radiation. Also, the concrete driveway’s ability to reflect light reduces lighting requirements. What does this mean? The concrete driveway reflects light effectively that it does need further illumination. The good news, not only will your driveway be brighter but you also save up on energy costs by not having a lot of extra lighting fixtures installed.
Capacity to hold more load
It is a given that concrete is one of the strongest construction materials. As such, it can accommodate a heavier load. You are not limited to the type of vehicle you wish to park on the driveway. Whether you have a typical sedan or a monster truck for off-roading and shows, the concrete driveway in Melbourne won’t crack or break. The same is true for heavy foot traffic to your home or establishment.
Levels up the resale value
If you are trying to sell your home, a well-maintained driveway may significantly elevate the property’s value. Apart from the maintenance work done to the actual residence, a preserved and managed driveway adds to the overall value. A worn-out driveway, on the other hand, may lower the property value, if it didn’t drive potential buyers away. For more details on this matter, click here.
In conclusion
Just like the main place of residence, the driveway needs maintenance and care to be in its tip-top condition. With the many kinds of driveways available to choose from, pick the one that best fits your requirements and personality. If you like to be a little over the top, then a concrete aggregate driveway may be the best for you. If you like understated and plain, the asphalt or traditional concrete driveway may do the trick.
Should everything be pointing towards having a concrete driveway, then you are in luck. As discussed here, this type of driveway is loaded with benefits. However, this is also not a discount for other driveway types. Clearly, other types do have their fair share of advantages. In terms of viability and access to materials, though, the concrete driveway in Melbourne leads the pack.