Concrete Driveways

Why Choose Concrete for Your Driveway

Your driveway is one of the first things people notice about your home. A well-built concrete driveway not only improves your curb appeal but also adds real value to your property. Concrete driveways last longer than asphalt, require less maintenance than pavers, and handle heavy vehicles better than gravel. In Ashby, where we get harsh winters and hot summers, concrete stands up to freeze-thaw cycles and temperature swings better than most other materials.

We have been installing concrete driveways throughout Ashby and the surrounding areas for years, and we know what works in our local climate. A properly installed concrete driveway should last 30 years or more with minimal maintenance. That is a lot longer than asphalt, which typically needs resurfacing every 10 to 15 years. When you factor in the lower lifetime cost and better performance, concrete is often the smartest choice for your driveway project.

From residential driveways to commercial parking areas, we handle projects of all sizes. Whether you are replacing an old cracked driveway or installing a brand new one for a new construction home, we bring the same attention to detail and commitment to quality every time.

Our Driveway Installation Process

Installing a concrete driveway right requires proper planning and execution at every step. We start by evaluating your site, measuring carefully, and discussing your specific needs. Do you need space for multiple vehicles? Are there drainage issues we need to address? What about turning radius if you have larger vehicles? We think through all these details before we start digging.

Site Preparation and Base Work

The foundation of a great driveway is literally the foundation. We excavate to the proper depth, remove any unsuitable soil, and create a stable base using compacted gravel. This base layer is critical because it prevents settling and cracking down the road. We also make sure the grading directs water away from your garage and home. Poor drainage is one of the biggest causes of driveway problems, so we pay close attention to slope and pitch.

Forming, Reinforcement, and Pouring

Once the base is ready, we set forms to define the driveway edges and ensure proper thickness. We add rebar or wire mesh reinforcement to strengthen the concrete and control cracking. Then we pour the concrete, making sure it fills every corner and is properly consolidated. We finish the surface with the texture you want, whether that is a smooth trowel finish, a broom finish for better traction, or an exposed aggregate look. Control joints are cut at strategic locations to manage where the concrete cracks naturally as it cures.

• Proper excavation and grading for drainage
• Compacted gravel base for stability
• Rebar or wire mesh reinforcement
• Quality concrete mix designed for driveways
• Professional finishing and curing
• Strategic control joints to prevent random cracking

If you are also considering a new concrete patio or walkway, we can coordinate those projects together for a cohesive look and better value.

Driveway Options and Design Choices

Concrete driveways do not have to be plain gray slabs. You have options to customize the look to match your home and landscape. Standard broom-finish concrete is classic, affordable, and provides good traction. If you want something more distinctive, consider stamped concrete that mimics stone, brick, or pavers. Colored concrete can complement your home exterior, and exposed aggregate adds texture and visual interest.

We can also design driveways with decorative borders, integrate them with existing landscaping, or add aprons and turnarounds for easier access. The shape and layout matter too. Curved driveways can soften the look of your property, while straight designs maximize parking space. We work with you to find the right balance between function, aesthetics, and budget.

Thickness matters as well. Standard residential driveways are typically 4 inches thick, but we may recommend 5 or 6 inches if you have heavy vehicles like RVs or trucks. Thicker concrete costs more upfront but lasts longer and handles heavier loads without cracking or settling.

Common Questions About Concrete Driveways