This article was bought to you by the team at FDM Concreting aka concreters Frankston. They have many years experiencing in driveway concreting and wold be happy to discuss your options provided you reside in somewhere between Melbournes inner suburbs and the the Mornington coast.
The durability and longevity of concrete driveways are unmatched in the industry, as they are recognized as the most durable and cost-efficient option for surface maintenance. Many homeowners in Australia have come to appreciate the benefits that concrete driveways offer them in terms of added value, aesthetics and longevity. A great alternative to asphalt for driveways.
Several factors need to be taken into consideration when deciding on the perfect driveway design, as well as the cost. Concrete driveways offer a wide range of styles and options from which homeowners can choose.
Investment Required
The initial investment required for asphalt driveway installation may not be a big deal for some homeowners, but concrete driveways require much more upkeep and investment. It is important to evaluate your new driveway’s cost per square foot to determine whether or not you can afford it. A concrete driveway installation will require proper preparation before installation to ensure the best results regarding durability and aesthetics.
Concrete Sealer
One of the first steps to consider when choosing your concrete driveway option is to seal the surface. If you have chosen a concrete sealer, you can seal the surface after the concrete has cured completely. To ensure that your driveway sealer adheres correctly, the surface must be pre-treated with a bonding agent. Once the bonding has been applied, you can use a finishing agent to coat the concrete and prevent any cracking or pits from occurring. There are several options available to seal your driveway, depending on how much you wish to spend and what you wish to achieve.
Finishing Additive
Most people choose to apply a premium concrete sealer to their concrete slab. Once this has cured completely, you can add a finishing additive, such as a polyethylene film or a reflective heat surface. These finishes will prevent moisture from penetrating the concrete, which will prevent any bubbling and cracking. For added protection against cracking, thick rebar may be used as a reinforcement. However, this requires skill, as it must be cut to the correct depth and positioned accurately.
It is important to note that different types of concrete have different requirements for the proper application of a finishing agent. It is important to choose a finishing agent that will work well with your type of concrete to get the best results.
Maintenance
Once the surface has been properly sealed and reinforced, you can begin installing your concrete walkways. These structures should be considered an investment, as they can last in the location for several decades and made to stand up to the harshest weather conditions and are long-lasting.
However, they require care in the maintenance, as they are exposed to moisture, acids, and heavy vehicle traffic. The correct sealant and sealing compound can keep concrete clean and prevent the formation of cracks and other damages over time. With proper care and attention, concrete driveways will serve you for many years to come.