Concrete driveways are an excellent way to elevate your property’s curb appeal and give residents a more enjoyable living experience. Like any financial investment, it is important to undertake consideration and careful budgeting before concrete driveway construction begins. That’s where we come in.
At Asphalt & Civil, we have been in the asphalt and concrete driveway construction scene for years. Our team is extremely experienced and understands the ins and outs of associated costs for this kind of work. In this blog, we outline why concrete is an effective choice for driveways, detail the key costs involved, and share our top budgeting tips – so you can make an informed decision for your valued asset.
Why Choose Concrete?
Homeowners have multiple materials to choose from when it comes to driveway surfaces. So, why should you choose concrete over other alternatives?
Attractive Appearance
Concrete is a great choice as far as curb appeal goes. Smooth, manicured concrete driveways convey a sense of authority and luxury that other surfaces lack, instantly elevating your home’s appearance. Whether you are wanting to make a lasting impression on neighbours or visitors, or you simply enjoy the clean, tidy effect a concrete driveway provides, this is the ideal solution for your home.
Custom Options
Because of its light colouring, concrete enables textured finishings and designs. At Asphalt & Civil, we can personalise your driveway with a flecked finish or add different colours to create a truly eye-catching result. We can also finish your driveway with a smooth, sleek curb for added appeal and improved drainage. Add your personal touch with the range of custom options concrete driveways allow.
Long-Lasting Results
When it comes to durability, concrete is second to none. A particularly strong material, it is weather-resistant and can withstand heavy loads and frequent traffic. Because of its robust nature, you will experience minimal repairs and maintenance throughout your driveway’s lifetime – which can be as long as three decades when cared for appropriately. The long-term value you will get from high-quality concrete driveway construction makes this a valuable and worthwhile investment for any home or business.
Easy Care
Concrete driveways are a low maintenance option. While polyurethane foam injection and other modern techniques enable rapid, affordable repairs as required, professional installation mitigates the need for regular repairs. Additionally, concrete driveways are easy to keep clean. Simply hose, scrub or waterblast your driveway as and when you see fit for instant improvement.
Key Driveway Costs
There are three main costs to concrete driveway construction: materials, labour and site specifications. Let’s take a closer look at each of these factors.
Materials
The biggest expense to consider is the cost of materials. Concrete is a more expensive option than alternatives such as asphalt, but it is important to remember that its longevity will make it more cost-effective long-term. Concrete prices vary depending on availability and quality, and your construction partner can provide an accurate quote to help you make a decision.
Labour
Labour is the second biggest cost with concrete driveway construction. Your crew will need to prepare the site for work before excavating, pouring the concrete, and sealing. We offer highly competitive rates and can provide a detailed cost estimate for your records.
Specifications
Lastly, costs are impacted by the size of your project and the condition of your property. The larger the area being concreted, the more material and labour required and the higher the cost. The site itself also factors in. Is your property level and accessible? Is the soil stable? Your construction partner will assess your property to determine how difficult the job will be, and factor this into their quote.
Budgeting Advice
When making a budget for your new project, be sure to consider the following points.
Prioritise Quality
It may be tempting to choose the cheapest provider available – but put some serious thought into the outcome you are seeking. Low-cost driveways are often made with poor-quality concrete or installed in a way that can lead to costly repairs and maintenance. Choosing a company that uses high-quality materials and prioritises thorough, accurate installation is the only way to ensure your driveway will stand the test of time. Don’t compromise on quality to save a little money upfront. Choose a reputable partner you know will execute the job to the highest industry standard.
Calculate Long-Term Savings
Work out the amount of money you will likely spend on maintenance over your driveway lifespan. This will provide you with perspective on how much you will save over time compared to other materials that are less expensive initially.
Consider Contingencies
Always allow room for error in your budget. Like any construction project, expenses can change and your final costs may come in slightly higher – or lower – than anticipated. We recommend adding a 10% contingency to your budget so you aren’t caught out with unforeseen costs.
Build Your Dream Driveway Today
Ready to start your concrete driveway construction project without breaking the bank? Enhance your home’s exterior with our expert concrete driveway construction services.
Contact us today for expert guidance on budget-friendly solutions.