The Ultimate Guide to Concrete Driveways in Union City

Why Should I Choose a Concrete Driveway?

1. Durable in Union City’s Environment

• Concrete will withstand freezing temperatures much better than asphalt.
• It is also resistant to the use of de-icing salts, which are commonly used by municipalities in winter months.;
• Asphalt will melt and become soft during the summer months when temperatures rise above 100 degrees F.

2. Lasts Longer Than Other Materials

• A properly installed and maintained concrete driveway can last over 30 years.
• The need to replace a driveway made of another material is much more common.

3. Less Maintenance Required

• The primary maintenance required for a concrete driveway is periodic sealing.
• A concrete driveway can be cleaned using a power washer, as compared to an asphalt driveway, which typically requires broom cleaning due to being softer than concrete.

4. Offers a Variety of Designs

• Concrete driveways can be stained to add color to your driveway.
• They can also be stamped to resemble brick, cobblestone, or other decorative patterns and textures.
• There are many different ways to customize a concrete driveway to fit your style and tastes.

5. Increases Value of Your Home

• A concrete driveway adds to the curb appeal of your home and perceived value of your home.

Driveway Options for Union City Homes

• Traditional Smooth Finish – Classic and cost-effective, perfect for a clean look
• Exposed Aggregate – The stones in the concrete are exposed, creating a textured, slip-resistant surface.
• Stamped Concrete – Can be designed to mimic the appearance of brick, cobblestone, or other patterns.
• Colored Concrete – Colored to match your home’s exterior colors.
• Pervious Concrete – Designed to allow water to pass through, reducing puddling and stormwater runoff.

Things To Think About Before You Plan Your Driveway

1. Local Ordinances

• Review Union City’s zoning ordinances and permit requirements;
• Review any homeowner association regulations that apply to your community.

2. Drainage

• Assure that there is sufficient slope to direct water away from your home’s foundation.
• You may need to install a drainage system depending on the grade of your yard.

3. Preparing the Subgrade

• It is very important to have good subgrade preparation to ensure that your driveway lasts.
• Assure that all subgrade issues are addressed before installing your driveway.

4. Reinforcing

• You may choose to reinforce your driveway with wire mesh or rebar for added durability.
• Reinforcing is especially beneficial in areas where the soil moves.

5. Thickness

• We recommend a minimum thickness of 4 inches for a residential driveway.
• Additional thickness may be required for heavy vehicles.

6. Joints

• Control joints will help control where the cracks occur.
• Expansion joints allow for thermal expansion and contraction of the concrete.

Installation Process

1. Site Preparation

• Remove your old driveway (if applicable)
• Grade and compact the soil.

2. Forms and Reinforcement

• Set up forms to determine the shape of the driveway
• Install wire mesh or rebar into the forms.

3. Pouring and Finishing

• Pour the concrete mixture into the forms
• Smooth out and texture the surface.

4. Curing

• Allow sufficient time for the concrete to cure and develop strength
• Typically, this will take approximately 7 days before you can begin driving on it.

5. Sealing

• Apply a high-quality sealer to protect the surface
• We typically do this after 28 days of curing.

Cost Factors

Several factors affect the cost of a concrete driveway in Union City

• Size of the driveway
• Design complexity (i.e., stamped, colored, etc.)
• Any additional preparation or drainage systems required.

Although a concrete driveway may initially cost more than an asphalt driveway, the extended life cycle and lower maintenance costs of a concrete driveway may ultimately save you money.

Why Choose Union City Concrete Works for Your Driveway?

• Local knowledge and experience in the climate and soils of Union City
• High-quality products and expert craftsmanship
• Custom designs tailored to meet your needs and your home
• Clear, competitive pricing and professional customer service
• Fully insured and bonded for your protection.

Ready for a New Driveway?

A well-planned and executed concrete driveway can improve the curb appeal of your home, increase its resale value, and provide years of trouble-free service. We would love to assist you in planning a new driveway for your home in Union City. Contact us today for a complimentary consultation to discuss how a new driveway can enhance your home. Let us help you create a driveway that is both functional and visually appealing.

Union City Concrete Works – Creating a more beautiful Union City, one driveway at a time.