A safe and stylish driveway is an investment that some homeowners take for granted. The high cost of construction materials poses a deterrent, and the need to cut corners is always present. Some homeowners who want to raise or maintain their home’s value ask about better options.
One popular option among Canadian homeowners is installing stamped concrete on their driveways. For years, many owners have chosen stamped concrete for several outdoor improvements. They observed that this tends to give a high-end look to their homes.
But there is more to picking stamped concrete over others. Homeowners need to consider their homes’ layout and the driveway’s condition during winter. They must also check provisions in local by-laws to avoid getting fined.
To help you decide on your driveway’s future, read about the key considerations when choosing stamped concrete for driveways.
What are the pros of stamped concrete?
In a nutshell, stamped concrete installation involves pouring concrete and applying rubber or texturized stamps. Using stamps on wet concrete, contractors can mimic another material. These copied materials may include brick, tile, cobblestone, natural stone, and wood planks.
Furthermore, you can copy the material better with different colours and textures. The cost of applying stamped concrete is significantly less than installing the actual outdoor material. In this context, stamped concrete driveways can give more room for customized designs.
Another great thing about stamped concrete is it’s relatively easy to maintain even in winter. It’s easy to plow your driveway and won’t pose any risk of damage from shovels or plows. However, you must avoid deicing salts, so the concrete sealers sustain their sealing properties.
What is the lifespan of stamped concrete driveways?
Well-maintained stamped concrete driveways could last up to 25 years. Hence, diligent homeowners avoid skipping routine cleaning. Depending on the weather elements and amount of traffic (or use), this type of driveway can last long when adequately cleaned.
Maintenance should include sweeping and washing the surface to avoid any buildup. Most stamped concrete contractors also re-apply sealants to protect the concrete from dirt, grease, and chemicals that can damage it.
Apart from maintenance, you need to prioritize selecting only specialists. Stamped concrete specialists like Elite Concrete can help you realize your dream driveway and enhance it with forming and mixing techniques.
What are the cons of stamped concrete?
Stamped concrete is only second to paving stones when it comes to price. However, homeowners who do choose stamped concrete for their driveways can get this investment back after a while. They can save due to low maintenance costs and long lifespan.
Installing stamped concrete is also not easy to do yourself. Experts advise against doing a DIY project out of it. Instead, homeowners should hire stamped concrete contractors. These professionals undergo training to advance their careers as specialists and apply techniques that show another level of hardscape artistry.
How To Get the Best Stamped Concrete Contractor
To learn more about the top stamped concrete specialists in your area, visit review sites and consider the following:
- Client experiences that you want (e.g., satisfied, happy)
- The little things that matter, such as tidiness
- Contractor’s communication skills
If you know someone who’s tried the contractor’s services, don’t hesitate to make a call. Cover as many details as you need, from the budget to the professionalism of contractors during the installation. Inquire about long-term services such as deep cleaning or applying sealant.
Also, check out the contractor’s licenses and industry memberships. This information will help determine how committed these specialists are to giving clients their hundred percent.
Boost Curb Appeal With Stamped Concrete Driveways
Like any other hardscape, stamped concrete driveways have pros and cons that can guide homeowners in deciding on the best driveway option. Homeowners also need to understand the requirements that can keep concrete driveways valuable and safe in the long run.