As a homeowner, you can help make your cement driveway a success. Don’t worry, no one’s expecting you to roll up your sleeves and haul broken concrete.
Do you want your new driveway to be installed and remain strong and smooth for many years to come? Follow these simple steps:
- Clear A Path: Provide direct access to your driveway so your contractor can strategically place their equipment.
- Don’t Be Shocked: Seeing your old driveway smashed to pieces can be alarming at first. Don’t worry; it’s part of the process.
- Be Patient: Respect the time it takes for your contractor to prepare the subgrade on which your new driveway will sit.
- Be Careful: Strictly follow your contractor’s guidelines for preserving your driveway while the concrete cures.
This is the advice we share with homeowners here at Rea & Son Cement. By following our suggestions, you’ll have an amazing, durable cement driveway. Contact us for more information.
4 Tips for a Successful Cement Driveway
Most homeowners know they need a new cement driveway because the signs are plain as day. Your car’s wheels will bump over cracks and raised, uneven slabs.
Your plan is straightforward: call a contractor, agree upon a price, and look forward to the day the job gets done. It’s normal to be excited about saying goodbye to that old, damaged driveway.
Here’s a closer look at the things you need to know about the process and your cement driveway’s aftercare plan:
1. Strategic Vehicle Logistics
A successful driveway installation requires a clear workspace. This means you have to move all your vehicles to a convenient location away from the job site.
If street parking is available, park away from your home so your contractor’s trucks can park as close to the driveway as possible.
If your street doesn’t allow parking, you’ll have to arrange a temporary spot with a neighbor or use a nearby parking lot.
2. The Shock of Deconstruction
The first step in this transformation is when the crew starts busting up your old driveway. Seeing this can be jarring for some people.
You and that driveway have a history, but now it’s disappearing piece by piece. Before you get nostalgic, please remember that this phase is temporary.
You need to remember that your old driveway was cracked, uneven, and taking a heavy toll on your vehicles and your feet.
Once the broken debris is removed, your yard has a clean slate for a new, smoothly finished driveway.
3. Respecting the Sub-Grade Process
Installing a durable concrete driveway in Michigan’s freeze-thaw cycle takes more than just “pouring mud.”
The sub-grade installation is important. This is when the contractor’s crew prepares the ground beneath where the concrete will be poured. This is the most important phase of the project.
To some people, it might look like “nothing is happening.” The truth is, your contractor is taking their time to make sure your new driveway lasts a long time.
Since so much depends on the sub-grade of your driveway, it’s good to trust your contractor and their process.
4. The Final Curing Time
Once the concrete is poured, the crew begins finishing the surface to a smooth, professional-grade finish.
While the driveway may look done, it’s actually undergoing a chemical transformation called “curing.” During this time, avoid using your new driveway until the concrete stabilizes.
During the curing process, your driveway is off-limits for a variety of activities, such as:
- Foot Traffic: Keep all people and pets off the surface for at least 24 hours.
- Light Load Limit: Do not drive your vehicles onto the concrete for at least 7 days.
- Heavy Machinery Ban: Avoid parking heavy trucks or trailers on the new slab for at least 28 days.
- The Chemical Shield: Avoid applying de-icing salts and other harsh chemicals during the first winter to avoid industrial flaking and cracks.
Remember, these aren’t suggestions; these tips will help you ensure your cement driveway remains strong, smooth, and able to stand up to years of service.
Choose Rea & Son Cement for Your New Concrete Driveway
Are you ready for a permanent cement driveway upgrade? Don’t let a crumbling entrance compromise your home’s visual authority. Plan for your permanent driveway upgrade today.
At Rea & Son Cement, we leverage our experience to deliver durable, high-performance cement driveways throughout Metro Detroit.
Now that you know what you need to do when our crew arrives, are you ready to get your quote? Call (734) 425-7966 or contact us online!