Concrete Driveways

A professionally installed concrete driveway typically lasts 30-40 years or more with proper maintenance. In contrast, asphalt driveways usually need replacement after 15-20 years. The longevity of concrete makes it a superior long-term investment for your home.

Concrete driveway costs vary based on size, finish, and site conditions. Basic broom-finished driveways typically range from $8-12 per square foot, while decorative options like stamped or exposed aggregate run $12-18+ per square foot. We provide free, detailed estimates with transparent pricing.

Concrete is the better choice for most Pacific Northwest homeowners. While asphalt has a lower upfront cost, concrete lasts twice as long, requires less maintenance, resists oil stains better, and offers decorative options that boost curb appeal. Over the life of your home, concrete provides significantly better value.

You can typically drive on your new concrete driveway after 7 days for light vehicles. For full strength and heavy vehicles, we recommend waiting 28 days. We'll provide specific guidance based on weather conditions and concrete mix used for your project.

All concrete will develop some minor cracks over time - that's the nature of the material. However, we minimize cracking through proper site preparation, adequate base material, correct concrete thickness (typically 4-6 inches), steel reinforcement, and strategic control joint placement. These measures keep cracks small, controlled, and rarely noticeable.

Concrete driveways are remarkably low-maintenance. Simply rinse with a hose periodically to remove debris. For best results, seal your driveway every 2-3 years to protect against stains and weather damage. Promptly remove harsh chemicals like de-icing salts. Avoid using metal snow shovels that can scratch decorative finishes.

Yes! We can closely match colors, patterns, and finishes to existing concrete work. However, perfect color matching can be challenging due to weathering and age differences. We'll provide samples and discuss options to create the most cohesive look possible for your property.

In most cases, yes. We typically remove and properly dispose of existing driveways (concrete or asphalt) to ensure proper drainage, adequate depth for base material, and a stable foundation. Occasionally, a structurally sound concrete driveway can be overlaid, but this isn't recommended for long-term performance.

In the Pacific Northwest, late spring through early fall (May-October) offers the most predictable weather for concrete installation. We can work year-round, but cold and wet conditions require special measures and may extend curing time. Contact us for current availability and weather considerations.

Standard residential driveways should be 4 inches thick with proper base preparation. If you have heavy vehicles (RVs, boats, commercial trucks), we recommend 5-6 inches. Proper thickness combined with steel reinforcement and a well-compacted base ensures your driveway handles loads without cracking or settling.