Concrete is a smart investment because it can last up to 30 years with minimal maintenance, which saves you money in the long run. It has a lot of benefits to your home and in the long run, you will appreciate what you have invested. With regards to this, you must also get some professional advice and help if you want to add some concrete around your lawn, your backyard, or you wanna add some concrete patio. Make sure you pick a better contractor, or you can click here as a guide on how to find one. However, you must also understand the commonly asked about concrete and its use:
What is concrete made of?
Concrete is made out of cement, water, and crushed rock (sometimes sand is used instead). The cement is a powder used to bind the concrete mixture. It’s a misconception that concrete and cement are the same things. In reality, cement is one of several ingredients used to create concrete.
What can concrete be used for?
Unlike asphalt, concrete can be used both indoors and outdoors. For example, you may want a concrete patio to enjoy the summer days outside and a decorative concrete floor for your basement. Concrete can even be used to create decorative walls that look like natural wood, brick, or stone. A stamped concrete driveway can also be used to help you copy the look of natural materials at a lower cost to you.
You can apply concretes in:
- Commercial
- Residential
- Agricultural
- Municipal
How are concrete and cement different?
While often used interchangeably in everyday conversation, concrete and cement are two different things. Cement is a powder made from burning lime and clay. While cement is one of the main ingredients used in concrete, it can’t be used on its own to make driveways, parking lots, and roads.
How are concrete and asphalt different?
Concrete is more versatile than asphalt because it can be used both outdoors and indoors. For example, you may decide you want a decorative concrete floor inside your commercial building. Asphalt, on the other hand, can only be used for outdoor applications.
Concrete lasts longer than asphalt while needing less maintenance. While a concrete driveway can last up to 30 years, an asphalt driveway may only last 12 years. Keep in mind that you’ll still need to apply concrete sealer. However, you won’t have to seal pavement as often as you would with asphalt.
Concrete is not only long-lasting, but durable enough to withstand heavy traffic. Many of our customers appreciate how concrete is durable enough to use on freeways, intersections, and other high-traffic areas without potholing.
What is decorative concrete?
Our concrete experts are able to dye, stamp, and stain pavement so it looks like more expensive materials. If you have always admired the aesthetic of stone, brick, or wood, stamped concrete can let you copy this look at a lower cost. For example, a homeowner may decide to install a stamped concrete patio for less than what it would cost to install cobblestone. Decorative concrete can help improve the curb appeal of your home or commercial building, which is perfect if you plan on selling in the near future.