There are a few styles of concrete driveway finishes. One type is stamped concrete. While it may look great, stamped concrete offers little traction and can be tricky to navigate during slippery seasons. It may also compromise the integrity of the concrete, which is why many people prefer a sandwashed finish. Sandwashed concrete is smoother and has better traction than stamped concrete. In addition, it can be applied to both exterior and interior concrete.
One of the main differences between plain and decorative concrete is color. You can opt for a light grey color for a more basic and classic concrete finish. A plain color will match the color of your home, while a darker shade may hide any imperfections. Grey-colored concrete is the most popular choice today due to its timeless appearance and low cost. However, it is important to know how to properly install concrete to ensure that the finished look is both elegant and durable.
Maintenance
A beautiful driveway with a high-quality finish is an important part of any home, and aggregate concrete is an excellent choice for yours. The advantages of aggregate concrete over other types of driveway finishes include their low-cost maintenance, durability, and aesthetics. While concrete may cost more initially than asphalt, it requires very little upkeep, which saves you time and money in the long run. These benefits can be even more significant if you live in an area where extreme weather conditions are common.
In addition to offering various hues, concrete does not require resurfacing as often as other materials. Because concrete is so compact, it prevents the formation of holes and keeps the surface smooth and pristine. Snow plows can easily pass over the finished surface. However, concrete has some disadvantages, too. While asphalt may last for about 30 years, it has a lower cost and requires less maintenance.
Durability
While standard concrete driveway finishes are highly durable, exposed aggregate and poured-in-place asphalt surfaces are not. While both are highly durable, they do have some drawbacks. Unlike standard concrete driveways, exposed aggregate driveways can lose their luster and become slippery over time. Small cracks and shifting sections are easily fixed by applying a sealant, but these issues are more serious than ordinary weathering.
One option is a saw-cut concrete finish. This type of finish is best-applied perpendicular to the flow of traffic. It provides the most resistance and requires a high level of skill. On the other hand, smooth concrete finishes are neutral and require little maintenance. The saw-cut method of applying concrete finishes requires special tools and supplies. Once the saw-cut concrete is applied, you can choose from many stain colors. The saw cut concrete finish gives your driveway a contemporary, unique look.