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09 Apr 07

Proper Construction Methods For A Concrete Driveway

  • For a driveway, you will want a much stronger mix of 4,000-psi, with a 0.5 water to cement ratio, which provides a denser concrete and hence increases the wear ability. Because concrete is permeable it will draw moisture from the ground that it rests on. By using a 0.5 water to concrete mixture, you will reduce the amount of moisture drawn up which in turn will reduce any efflorescence action on the surface of the concrete.

    If you live in a cold climate, order your concrete with air entrainment. Air entrainment provides microscopic air pockets within the concrete which is a place for moisture to freeze without applying undo pressure on the concrete.

pour concrete driveway

  • Have enough help with
    you leveling the concrete as your pouring. Pour 1/3 of the driveway, Stop,
    Rod off. Then repeat this process until done.

    Do not over pour!

Concrete Crack Prevention

  • I would like to see you
    install a minimum 5 inch thickness. Often contractors might try to tell you that
    a 4 inch thickness is sufficient. The cost to upgrade to a 5 inch thickness on
    an average driveway is chicken feed when you compare it to the total cost of the
    job. For example, if your driveway measures 720 square feet, a 4 inch thick pour
    will require 9 cubic yards of concrete. Increasing the thickness to 5 inches
    requires 11 cubic yards of concrete. The extra two yards of concrete will only
    cost about $130.00.
  • Spacing of control joints is critical. Make sure the joints on your driveway
    are spaced at intervals of 15 feet or less. It is a common practice to make the
    spacing equal to the width of the driveway. If your driveway slab will have
    sharp 90 degree corners, control joints should extend from these corners out
    into the slab. Concrete cracks often radiate from corners, so make sure you
    discuss the control joint layout with the contractor before the pour begins.
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