The driveway is one of the first things noticed when you arrive at a home. With a variety of design options, color combinations, and finishes to choose from, concrete driveways are becoming as much a part of front yard landscaping and design as bushes, shrubs, lawns, and trees. From slate and stone to brick and concrete, these spaces can be as whimsical and modern or as simple and chic as you would like them to be. Concrete can be formed into virtually any style or pattern, and is amazingly functional.

While it is always easiest to add concrete driveway in a space that doesn't already have anything other than bare dirt, hope is not entirely lost for those who have existing brick or asphalt driveways. All this simply means is that your contractor will have to remove the existing material, level and smooth out the ground surface before beginning your new driveway. This can sometimes add to the cost of your project, so be sure to discuss the price of this process with your contractor when negotiating an estimate.

Once you have come to an agreement with your concrete contractor on the design and price of your future parking place, it is then time for the construction portion to actually begin. Generally, once the ground underneath where your new driveway will be is appropriately compacted, your contractor will begin to form the area for your concrete driveway. This is done by adding pieces of lumber called side forms to the edges of your driveway area and nailing them securely into the ground with large stakes. Your contractor will measure the depth of these side forms to the thickness of the desired slab of concrete, and make sure that the driveway will match up to any existing sidewalks or curbing.

A good contractor will be well schooled in the type of slump and concrete mix needed to withstand outdoor conditions in your area. This varies by the amount of moisture and heat an area gets, and choosing the wrong type of concrete can cause cracks later on in the future. The concrete is then poured into the area cordoned off by the side forms. A piece of lumber is "floated" over the top to smooth out the concrete and make sure there are not any low spots. The concrete is then left for three to four days to harden and cure.

Contractors will also add areas in the driveway called joists. These are usually no less than one inch deep and are used to prevent future cracks in the driveway. By adding these cuts into your concrete, you are allowing the material to expand and contract with the weather keeping damage from happening. A high quality sealant is then usually applied to the driveway to keep vehicle leaks and other stains from appearing.

If you are looking for a way to add a high quality and manicured look to the front exterior of your home, search no further than a concrete driveway. Call your local concrete contractor today to discuss pricing and design details.

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