Concrete is often chosen for driveways thanks to its strength, durability and cost. It can also be much easier to maintain than other types of material. It’s ideal for both flat and sloped driveways and is incredibly simple to pour if you choose an experienced supplier. It can also be easily transported to areas which don’t have easy access to them yet, using concrete pumps.
However, there are a few factors to bear in mind when choosing the right concrete for your driveway.
The Right Concrete Grade
Concrete grades refer to the composition and strength of concrete you require. The right category will depend on aspects such as the volume of traffic moving across the driveway and what you intended to use the driveway space for. C25/ST2 is a multi-purpose concrete mix, which is great for lighter applications such as patios and driveways. However, if you need a slightly stronger mix, C30 or C35 are good options. For example, these grades could be used in the case of commercial properties where there are more vehicles present, using the driveway on a day to day basis.
The Best Quality Concrete
If you want to use concrete which you know has been certified and is of good quality, ready mix concrete is the ideal solution. This is also a smart option if you know how much concrete you’ll need as it’s made at the plant and then mixed in state-of-the-art lorry mixers on the way to you. The mix can then be poured into the designated area once on site. You can also choose on-site mixed concrete if you would prefer, and you’ll only pay for what you use. Once levelled, it creates a smooth finish which still has grip. Most people need their concrete driveway budget to fall within a specific price range, so they choose ready mix or volumetric concrete, which are incredibly cost effective.
Creating Different Looks
You can also select concrete for driveways if you’re looking for a bit more versatility in its look, including decorative designs. For example, concrete block paving could be used to create different shapes, but it is one of the more expensive options available. Poured concrete is ideal for this as it can be laid in designated sections to form the different patterns required.
Other property owners opt for imprinted concrete designs which can produce different colours and patterns. With this type of concrete, you’ll still need a standard concrete base layer first. The imprinted concrete is then used over the top and may need resealing every few years. Those looking for the lowest maintenance concrete should stick to ready mix.
Order Concrete for Your New Driveway
If you’re looking for more advice about the type of concrete you need for a new driveway, speak to the team at Network Concrete. We supply concrete across Sussex, including East Sussex, Brighton and Copthorne. Call now on 0800 222 9099 for a free quotation.
