Residential Concrete Services in Surprise Arizona

Yes, a concrete driveway will crack. Concrete must crack because it contracts during the drying/hardening process. The best way to prevent unsightly cracking is to direct these cracks into weakened plane contraction joints spaced at regular intervals (for example a 4-inch slab should have a joint every 10-12 feet). Cracks can also be caused by uneven shifting of the sub grade. This would be considered a structural failure from improper site/soil preparation. Therefore, it is important to hire a contractor that understands all aspects of concrete installation.

The minimum required compressive strength for concrete driveways is 3000 PSI, however, it’s highly recommended to use much higher strength concrete. Best Concrete Co uses 4000 PSI in conjunction with #4 rebar spaced at 12 inches on center to ensure your driveway will withstand whatever you put on top of it.

Most residential concrete driveways are 4” thick and placed on a compacted 4” to 8” thick base of ABC grave. Adding rebar can double or almost triple the strength of a standard 3,000 PSI concrete driveway. Increasing to thickness to 5” will increase the strength by about 50%, and even more with rebar. Driveways that will experience heavy loads such as Recreational Vehicles should be poured at 5” or more depending on the anticipated load.

Overall, the difference between asphalt and concrete driveways is that asphalt is less durable than concrete. Asphalt with proper maintenance can last 30 years. Alternatively, concrete provides a sturdy, long-lasting option and can last homeowners 50+ years with occasional repairs and degreasing.

After the concrete has been poured and cured, adding a sealer helps protect it from future damage, corrosion, and stains. Because concrete is porous, it tends to absorb water and other substances. Sealing closes pores and prevents any future freeze/thaw damage to the concrete which can result in cracks. In warmer climates like Phoenix, the freeze-thaw cycle isn’t a concern however it is still recommended that you seal your concrete to protect it from harmful chemicals and UV exposure that causes oxidation.

Yes and no. Yes, they can be filled in with an epoxy sand mixture that will ensure no water will penetrate the subgrade. No, they cannot be repaired like you would a sheet of metal, once the concrete has cracked there is no way to bond the concrete back together.

If correct procedures are followed, concrete can be poured during the winter. You do not have to halt your dream driveway or patio because it is cold outside. According to the American Concrete Institute, you should “Take advantage of the opportunity provided by cold weather to place low-temperature concrete. Since it’s rare for Phoenix to experience freezing temperatures, winter is the preferred time to pour concrete.

A concrete driveway can increase your property’s value between 5 and 10 percent” says Fast Sales Homes. That means a $500,000 home can increase to a $550,000 home. On average, a new 2-car concrete driveway costs anywhere from $3-$6,000, which makes this type of investment significant. So, it may be time to spruce up or add a driveway to your home today.

The entire curing period of concrete takes about a month, but your concrete will be ready for use sooner. When waiting for concrete to cure, keep these timeframes in mind

24 to 48 hours – People can walk on the surface
7 days – Traffic from vehicles and equipment is okay
28 days – The concrete should be fully cured reaching its designed strength.

Stamped concrete, often called textured or imprinted concrete, replicates stones, such as slate and flagstone, tile, brick, and even wood. The wide variety of patterns and color choices make it popular for beautifying patios, pool decks, driveways, and more. Check out our instant online quote feature for a complete list of stamp patterns we offer.