About the Driveway Material
Concrete driveways are made from a durable blend of cement, sand, gravel, and water that hardens into a rigid surface.After they are properly set and cured, concrete becomes an extremely strong material that can easily handle heavy loads, daily rough use, and the harshest of weather conditions.
Due to advances in coloring, stamping, and finishing, you can now build a concrete driveway that complements your home’s exterior while retaining all its advantages.
Our Concrete Driveway Services
We offer concrete driveway solutions that are customized to your space, style, and needs. Here are some of the core services that we offer:
Full Installation:
Our team will handle the entire process of concrete driveway installation starting from excavation, base preparation, formwork to pouring, finishing, and curing.
Driveway Replacement:
If your existing driveway is cracked, uneven, or beyond repair, we safely remove it and install a brand-new one that’s built to last.
Decorative Finishes:
We will help you choose and install a variety of options like stamped patterns, broom finishes, exposed aggregate, or colored concrete.
Crack & Surface Repair:
For driveways with surface damage or minor structural issues, we offer patching, crack filling, and resurfacing options.
Sealing & Protection:
Simmons Stone can also extend your driveway’s lifespan with professional sealing services that protect it from water, oil stains, freeze-thaw cycles, and UV rays.
Why Choose Concrete Driveways?
Concrete is one of the most popular materials for driveway construction. Here are some of the reasons why you might want to choose concrete driveways for your home or commercial establishment.
Long Lasting Durability:
With proper installation and maintenance, concrete driveways can last 30 to 40 years. It is highly resistant to rutting, crumbling, and damage from weather, making it ideal for both hot and cold climates.
Low Maintenance:
Unlike asphalt, concrete doesn’t need frequent sealing or resurfacing. Occasional cleaning and resealing every few years is typically all that’s required.
Better Curb Appeal:
You can try out decorative options like stamping, tinting, and texturing,to increase the visual appeal.
The Different Types of Concrete Driveways
Concrete is incredibly versatile. Here are some of the finish styles we offer at Simmons Stone.
- Broom Finish: This is the classic concrete look with a slip-resistant texture created by dragging a broom across the surface before it sets. It’s simple, safe, and cost-effective.
- Stamped Concrete: Get the luxurious appearance of stone, brick, slate, or tile without the high price tag. Stamped concrete is imprinted with realistic patterns and often colored to mimic natural materials.
- Exposed Aggregate: A unique, eye-catching finish achieved by revealing the small stones in the concrete mix. It offers great traction and a decorative, rustic vibe.
- Colored or Stained Concrete: These have coloring mixed into the concrete or surface stains applied after curing. They are available in earth tones, modern grays, or even custom blends.
Standard Recommended Measurements
Proper planning and correct dimensions are important to a long-lasting driveway. Here’s what we generally recommend:
Thickness:
- 4 inches is standard for passenger vehicles.
- 5–6 inches is recommended for driveways that will support heavier trucks, RVs, or equipment.
Width:
- 10 feet minimum for a single-lane driveway.
- 20 feet or more for a double-lane or side-by-side parking.
Slope & Drainage:
- A 1–2% slope ensures water runs off the surface rather than pooling.
- We also recommend proper edge drainage or permeable strips where needed to prevent water damage over time.
We always adjust based on your lot’s grading and comply with all local building codes.
The Process We Follow for Concrete Driveways
We take care of every detail so you can enjoy a smooth experience when you are building a concrete driveway.
Consultation & Planning
We start by visiting your site, listening to your goals, and measuring the space. You will get a detailed, transparent estimate and expert recommendations on finishes and layout.
Site Prep & Demolition
If there’s an old driveway, we will remove it. Then we grade the area, install a compacted gravel base, and ensure proper drainage is built in from the start.
Forming & Pouring
Concrete forms are set to define the shape, thickness, and slope of the driveway. We then pour high-quality concrete, using reinforcement like rebar or mesh as needed.
Finishing
Depending on the chosen style, we apply a broom finish, stamp patterns, or expose the aggregate. We also cut control joints to reduce cracking.
Curing & Sealing
Concrete needs time to gain strength. We ensure proper curing to avoid surface defects. Once cured, we apply a high-quality sealant for protection and longevity.
Final Walkthrough
We do a final check together to make sure every detail meets your expectations.
FAQ
How long before I can drive on a new concrete driveway?
In most cases, you can walk on it within 24–48 hours, but we recommend waiting 7 days before driving on it. Full curing happens at around 28 days, which is when the concrete reaches maximum strength.
What causes concrete to crack, and is it preventable?
Concrete naturally shrinks as it cures, which can lead to cracking. However, we use control joints, proper sub-base prep, and moisture management techniques to minimize and control cracking. Small surface cracks are common and don’t usually affect structural integrity.
Can I customize the color and look of my driveway?
Of course! We offer a range of integral colors, stains, and decorative finishes to match your style.