A new driveway can be a major property upgrade that offers curb appeal, longevity, and improved resale value. With an experienced concrete contractor in Tulsa, concrete driveways can provide these benefits and more.
5 Reasons To Consider a Concrete Driveway From an Experienced Concrete Contractor in Tulsa
1. Longevity
Factors like maintenance, climate, and usage will all impact how long a driveway lasts. With that being said, many driveways made with a high-quality material like concrete have lasted for decades. On average, you can expect a driveway to last 30 years when it’s made with concrete.
This is a major factor for homeowners who are deciding between concrete and asphalt as their primary options. Asphalt typically has a lower initial cost. However, concrete lasts longer, so costs less over time.
2. Resale Value
Homebuyers love to see something new, high-quality, and that they won’t have to replace for a long time. A driveway that won’t need to be replaced for thirty years is similar to hearing that a property has a new roof. These kinds of upgrades offer value when the property is put back on the market.
3. Curb Appeal
Standard, light gray concrete looks great with a lot of homes. An experienced contractor can also add touches like coloring to make it a little darker or stamp concrete for a unique texture. You can also create the same look in the backyard, around the pool deck, or create walkways. These little touches can add a lot of style to the property.
4. High Load-Bearing Capacity
Concrete is a strong, non-flexible material. So, when heavy vehicles drive on it, it doesn’t bend and develop ruts in the road. A quality contractor typically pours the concrete for a home property at four inches thick. This makes it so the driveway has the capacity to regularly withstand 8,000 pounds of pressure: enough for normal vehicles.
Of course, one of the benefits of concrete for home projects is that it’s very customizable. A great Tulsa Concrete Contractor will be able to create driveways with varying load-bearing capacities or even decorative touches. If you have specific concerns, talk to your contractor. They can create a thicker driveway if you regularly have heavier equipment driving on your property.
5. Low Maintenance
Depending on the weather and usage, concrete will need to be sealed every three to five years. This will require a sealant and a roller brush. A professional can do this for you, but it’s possible to do on your own.
For comparison, an asphalt driveway needs to be resealed every one to three years. This varies largely based on the weather. If it’s a very hot and humid Tulsa summer, which it often is, the asphalt often requires more maintenance.
Like any home improvement project, your driveway requires some careful consideration when it comes to budget, quality, and style. How long you plan to live on the property and how much maintenance you’re willing to do may impact your decision. Concrete can be a great way to save yourself time and the headache of replacing the driveway for several decades.
