[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text css=””] Whether you are re-doing an older driveway or installing a new one, you will have a number of choices to make. The material you will use is an important determining factor that helps determine the style, cost, and durability.
While you can choose from numerous types of driveways, a concrete driveway is an ideal decision. Concrete ticks all the boxes regarding cost, availability, and durability; you only need to choose the type of concrete driveway you want.
Three Different Types of Concrete Driveways
Exposed Aggregate
Exposed aggregate concrete is a highly sought-after choice for driveways in residential and commercial settings. To create the unique styles of exposed aggregate, your choice of materials (stones, shells, sand, gravel, etc.) is added to the concrete base before pouring. To achieve a unique look, the top layer of the concrete is removed to reveal the beauty of the materials inside.
What Are The Benefits of Exposed Aggregate Driveways?
- Durability is a significant benefit of exposed aggregate
- Aside from regular sweeping and rinsing with a hose, little maintenance is involved.
- Exposed aggregate surfaces are naturally slip-resistant, making them ideal for your driveway. Exposed aggregate surfaces are also a top choice for alfresco areas and pool surrounds.
- You will have a fantastic choice of colours and textures for your new driveway.
Maintenance and Tips: Exposed Aggregate Concrete
- Sweep and rinse the exposed aggregate driveway weekly to prevent stains.
- Use hot water in a pressure washer to deep clean the textured surface of the exposed aggregate.
- Remember to reseal the driveway every two to three years to maintain its good looks.
Stamped Concrete
Stamped concrete is a popular type of decorative concrete that is a cost-effective substitute for driveways made of more expensive materials like slate, brick, and stone. Heavy-duty stampers or texturising mats are placed on a wet, regular concrete base, and they make impressions on the surface. The finished product will have a stylish, high-end look.
What are the Benefits of Stamped Concrete?
- An expensive look at an affordable price- You can get the look of slate, cobblestone, wood planks and many more pricey materials.
- Easy to customise- Stamped concrete will stand out and reflect your own tastes as you can work with numerous textures, colours, and patterns including colours, textures, and patterns.
- Easy to clean- You can easily clean stamped concrete surfaces. Typically, regular sweeping and rinsing with a hose is enough to keep your stamped concrete driveway looking like new.
Maintenance and Tips: Stamped Concrete Driveways
- Never use a pressure washer or harsh chemical cleaners on stamped concrete.
- Do not allow water with plant fertiliser to run on stamped concrete
- Use mats with an open weave on stamped concrete because mats or rugs with rubber backing will keep the concrete from breathing.
- Seal your stamped concrete every two years.
Brushed (Stipple) Finish Concrete
A brushed finish concrete is achieved by sweeping a broom, brush, or other equipment over the damp concrete. This action creates a textured and attractive surface. The Stipple finish is similar to brushed, except a textured roller or trowel is used to make a subtle textured surface on the concrete.
What are the Benefits of Brushed Finish Concrete
- You can design a one-of-a-kind appearance that cannot be repeated.
- An enhanced ability to add traction and make areas easier and safer to walk
- Versatile applications look as good in the home as in commercial settings.
- Helps to improve water run-off
- Improves traction for vehicles
- Extremely durable
Maintenance and Tips: Stipple Concrete Driveway
- Keep your driveway clean with regular sweeping followed by hosing.
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners.
- Do not allow stains to sit on your brushed concrete surfaces for extended periods of time. Use a hose or non-caustic cleaner as soon as possible to reduce the chances of permanent stains.
Plain Concrete
Plain concrete, also called classic concrete, has been commonly seen in residential and commercial applications since the beginning of the 20th Century. This is the most basic of the various types of concrete.
What are the Benefits of Plain Concrete Driveways
- The most cost-effective concrete
- Exceptionally durable surface
- Works well in most settings
Maintenance and Tips: Plain Concrete Maintenance
- Sweep and rinse with a garden hose on a regular basis to maintain a new-looking driveway.
- Avoid harsh chemical cleaners
- Remove stains as quickly as possible so they do not become permanent.
Our Best Advice – Concrete Driveway Experts
The concrete driveway choices are practical and can work well in numerous situations. However, based on our extensive experience, we firmly believe that an exposed aggregate driveway is the best choice for concrete driveways. In addition to the nearly limitless variety of colours and styles available, you can count on an exposed aggregate driveway to maintain its integrity for 30 years or longer. During that time, your driveway will only need minimal maintenance.
There is no shortage of material choices that are suitable for a driveway. You will want to consider various factors like cost, durability, and availability before making a final decision. If you are not sure about which material to use for your driveway, you should consider working with a knowledgeable team who can help guide you through the different qualities found in each type. At CoastCrete, we have over 25 years of experience assisting our customers in finding the product that will achieve their desired look. To learn more about the possibilities available to you, please contact us and allow us to put our experience to work for you. [/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]
