Concrete, one of the most popular choices for commercial and residential landscaping rise to the top amongst other materials because of its advantages. However, since nothing is perfect, concrete also has its disadvantages. In this article, we’ll discuss the pros and cons of installing concrete driveway & walkway for your home or commercial property.
Concrete Driveway & Walkway Advantages
Cost
The price to install a concrete driveway is more competitive than other materials like interlock pavers.
Low Maintenance
Concrete requires virtually low to no maintenance, which saves both time and money in the long run. It can last over 20 years and weeds will not grow on the paved area.
Durability
Considered one of the strongest material for landscaping, it can withstand more wear and tear then other choices. With high traffic areas like driveways and front entrances, concrete can absorb all the abuse without showing signs of its frequent use. If concrete is installed properly, it can last 20+ years.
Appearance
Concrete gives a polished, professional finish (whether plain concrete or exposed aggregate concrete) without the ongoing maintenance required. It’s the best way to add curb appeal and to impress visitors.
Customizable
With the wide range of color palette to choose from along with endless pattern, shape and texture possibilities, you can customize your very own landscape to your hearts content.
Summer & Winter Friendly
If your concrete is finished in a light color, it will stay cool under the blaring sun during summer months – a definite plus for those who fancy walking around bare feet. And for the winter months, snow can easily be removed from concrete driveways.
Concrete Driveway & Walkway Disadvantages
Hard to repair
Unlike pavers where you can replace a single piece when a repair is required, concrete, on the other hand involves the removal and replacement of the whole concrete area.
May Crack Over Time
Like asphalt, concrete may crack over time. However, if the concrete driveway is installed by an experienced contractor who ensures all steps are followed to code, this may be avoided. From the depth of the foundation and the materials used for the foundation, subgrade, gravel & rebar to the distance between each rebar, these prep work builds for a solid base. Combine it with a 32 MPa concrete (MPa: megapascal is the common unit for compressive strength), optimal weather conditions when the concrete is poured and strategically placed stress joints, these steps can eliminate the cracking of concrete.
Staining
Concrete is susceptible to staining due to its light colour in nature. Oil and tire marks will require special cleaning agents to remove.
When installed by experienced concrete landscapers, concrete’s advantages outweigh its disadvantages and also has many benefits over asphalt driveways. Markstone Landscaping has been creating quality concrete driveways, walkways, front entrances and backyard patios for over 10 years. To find out more on concrete or to obtain a no-obligation quote for your landscaping project, contact us and one of our concrete specialist will be happy to assist you.
