Concrete Driveway Contractor
Concrete Driveway Contractor Installation Overview
Concrete driveways may seem like a straightforward job, but it’s important to note that not all installations are alike. At Tuck GC, Inc., we pride ourselves on being the top choice for concrete driveway projects in our area. Our focus is always on delivering exceptional quality and value for our customers. We don’t aim to be the least or most expensive option, but rather provide professional contractor services at a fair price. We hope that upon reviewing our installation techniques, you will choose us as your go-to Concrete Driveway Contractor.
Step by step breakdown for a properly installed concrete driveway
Tuck GC is the go-to expert for proper concrete driveway installation. As a highly reputable source, they have extensively analyzed the data and successfully completed numerous projects. Here are key points to consider:
- Subgrade or Base
- Concrete Mix
- Steel or Fiber Reinforcement
- Concrete Thickness
- Control and Expansion Joints
- Drainage
- Finishing
- Decorative Options
- Curing
Proper Base
How much does a concrete driveway base vary the pricing from contractor to contractor? Well, one of the most important factors in determining the cost of a good concrete driveway is the right base. The right base can make or break a contractor’s installation process. A solid base means more digging, more labor, more dump runs, and more materials.
If I had an unlimited budget, I would go with 8” of #57 gravel, followed by 4” of 21a gravel, then a vapor barrier, a wire mesh panel, 12” on center of #4 rebar, 8” of 5,000 PSI concrete, and a turn down footer around the entire perimeter. Installing according to these standards will cost you triple the amount for your project. It’s too much for a residential driveway! For the best value, in most cases, we recommend 3 to 4” 21a base, wire mesh, and 4” of concrete. It is critical to compact the gravel using a tamper. A residential concrete driveway with these specifications should last 30+ years.
Concrete Mix
The concrete mix chosen greatly impacts the quality of work of an adept driveway contractor. Additionally, the choice of truck is crucial. Volumetric Concrete Truck Mixers are typically suitable for patio bases with veneer top, footing systems, or walls, but not for driveways. To achieve optimal results, a ready mix truck with batched plant-mixed concrete is recommended for finishing driveways.
It’s important to use the nearest concrete plant to your job site and to consider the temperature of the day. No one wants their concrete sitting on a truck in hot weather for too long. The type of mix used is also crucial. While many companies opt for a 3,500 PSI mix or less, we choose to use a 4,000 PSI mix. For a minimal cost increase of about $20 per yard, upgrading to a stronger mix is well worth it. Additionally, various additives such as different slumps, air-entrainment, plasticizers, water deducing, retarding, and accelerating chemicals can alter the properties of the concrete.
Steel Reinforcement and Fiber Reinforcement
Various techniques can be used to employ steel reinforcement. Usually, we employ #4 rebar by drilling and embedding it with epoxy at the joining point of the driveway and garage. This adds stability to the crucial junction by placing steel in the garage’s foundation. Additionally, industrial wire mesh is a standard inclusion in all driveway installations. While residential purposes may require placing #4 rebar every 24 inches for extra strength, this is not typically needed. It’s essential to understand that using steel reinforcement does not ensure a surface free of cracks. Its main function is to prevent separation and sinking once cracks have developed.
Some concrete driveway contractors choose to use fiber reinforcement instead of steel. These fibers have a similar appearance to insulation and are effective in preventing cracks from spreading. While they can be used in conjunction with steel, the use of fibers changes the broom finish and may not have the same aesthetic appeal as a traditional concrete driveway. However, if you prioritize durability over appearance, incorporating fibers into your driveway can be a prudent choice.
Concrete Thickness
Maintaining the correct thickness of concrete is vital in avoiding driveway cracks. While certain contractors may cut corners and only pour a 3-inch slab, this is not an ideal approach. Our standard method involves pouring concrete at a minimum of 4 inches, with the possibility of upgrading to 6 inches if needed. It is also advisable to utilize #4 rebar with a surrounding depth of at least 6 inches, providing equal coverage of at least 3 inches on all sides of the steel bar.
Control and Expansion Joints
Strategically placed control joints in concrete serve the purpose of preventing unsightly cracks from occurring in the center of slab sections. These designated weak points guide the cracking process, minimizing their visibility. It’s worth mentioning that, despite efforts to prevent them, cracks are bound to happen in concrete. This is precisely why a reliable contractor will advise using control joints. Expansion joints, on the other hand, are typically installed at cold joints or where an existing slab meets a new one. You can commonly find these joints at seams for garage, apron, and walkway areas, as well as between separate pours for larger projects with truck traffic.
Finishing
Properly finishing the concrete is essential for both its strength and aesthetic appeal for your driveway. Once poured, it must be screeded for a level surface, followed by applying a magnesium bull float. Rounding edges and creating control joints is then done using hand tools. In areas where grooves may exist from the hand tools, a light toweling is applied for a flawless finish. This should occur after any excess water has evaporated and the concrete begins to set. Lastly, the forms are taken off and exposed surfaces receive a broom finish.
Drainage or Slope
While concrete is praised for its strength and endurance, it is not impervious to water damage. Inadequate drainage can allow water to infiltrate cracks and exacerbate them, ultimately leading to costly repairs. Additionally, standing water on your driveway poses a danger to both drivers and pedestrians. To maintain proper drainage, it is advised to have a 1-2% slope away from your home or garage along your concrete driveway. This means that for every 100 feet of driveway, there should be a decrease in elevation of 1-2 feet.
Decorative Options
To improve the look of a concrete driveway, there are several decorative options that can be included. A trustworthy contractor should thoroughly evaluate the pros and cons of these choices with their clients. While they do enhance the overall appearance, it’s worth noting that incorporating colors or borders may also result in weaknesses and upkeep difficulties for the driveway.
When making your selection of pavers, bricks, or stones for any purpose, it is crucial to keep in mind the durability of the joints. The presence of road grime and salts may necessitate replacing the joints every ten years. Additionally, fading and detachment from the surface can lead to unsightly stains without any feasible means of repair in the future. We are confident that choosing decorative options can greatly enhance the visual appeal, and we recommend specific types that offer both cost-effectiveness and long-lasting durability.
Before committing to a project that goes above and beyond the average cost of a concrete driveway, it is crucial to have all the necessary information. With our vast knowledge gained from numerous successful concrete pours, we can assist you in selecting the best option that fits your requirements and financial means. Below are some popular enhancements often selected for concrete driveways.
- Integral Color and Stamping
- Decorative Borders
- Pavers, Brick, and Stone
- Permeable Pavers