Factors to consider when having a new concrete driveway poured:

When planning your new driveway with Shepherd Concrete, it’s important to consider several key factors that ensure durability and add value to your property:

Incorporation of Expansion Joints: Expansion joints are crucial as they accommodate the natural freeze/thaw cycle and the settling of the earth over time. By allowing for movement, these joints help preserve the integrity of your concrete slab for a lifetime, preventing major cracks and structural damage.

Cost-Effectiveness Over Time: Investing a bit more upfront in a properly executed driveway can save significant money in the long run. Avoiding the need for costly repairs or redoing a failed slab not only saves money but also adds substantial value to your property.

Proper Finishing Techniques to Prevent Flaking and Spalling: Choosing the right finishing technique is critical to avoid common issues like flaking and spalling. A hard trowel finish is not suitable for exterior concrete as it traps air within the slab, leading to surface breakage. Instead, a mag float and broom finish are recommended. This method avoids overworking the concrete, ensuring the surface remains slightly porous and less prone to damage.

Managing the Concrete’s Viscosity and Setting: The tightness and viscosity of the concrete are important; you don’t want the surface to become too hard too quickly. Ensuring the concrete sets properly without becoming overly tight helps maintain its durability and finish quality, reducing the likelihood of surface issues in the future.

Effective Water Drainage: Ensuring that your driveway has a 2% grade away from your home is vital. This grade prevents water from pooling near your foundation, which can lead to water damage and ice hazards in colder months.

Soil and Substrate Considerations: The foundation upon which your driveway sits is as important as the surface. Remove any organic material beneath the driveway and ensure that a solid, properly compacted substrate is in place to support the concrete.

Careful Demolition of Old Materials: If your new driveway is replacing an old one, it’s critical to carefully demolish and remove the existing materials without causing damage to nearby structures, such as your home’s foundation.

Managing Construction Impact: While constructing your new driveway, some disruption and landscape impact are inevitable. Shepherd Concrete works diligently to minimize this impact and manages expectations by communicating what homeowners can expect throughout the process.

Clean-Up Post Construction: After the completion of your driveway, Shepherd Concrete ensures that your property is left clean and tidy, clearing all construction debris and tools from the site.