Stamped Concrete Driveway
In the Chester County area, driveway hardscaping in the form of natural stone, brick or flagstone is abundant. But while these materials are beautiful, they break down far quicker than concrete. For those seeking a more durable and cost-effective driveway option that’s just as beautiful, a stamped concrete is a perfect alternative.
Do Stamped Concrete Driveways Crack?
Unlike most natural materials, stamped concrete driveways are long-lasting and with proper care won’t crack over time. If minor cracks do occur, they’re hard to spot and relatively easy to fix. A simple re-seal and treatment usually does the trick.
Can you Prevent Cracks in a Stamped Concrete Driveway?
Sealing your driveway is the best way to prevent cracks down the road. At Morrison Custom Concrete, we recommend installing joints either before or after the concrete dries, to prevent splits and cracks from developing.
How often should you Seal your Stamped Concrete Driveway?
Depending on how much traffic (foot or vehicle) and sunlight your driveway receives, best practice is to seal once every 2-3 years. Sealing is important because it repairs minor cracks and splits that naturally occur with use. It’s also effective in prolonging the color of your driveway for years to come.
How Thick Should a Stamped Concrete Driveway be?
It depends on where and how your space will be used. The thickness of your stamped concrete includes the foundation consisting of at least 4 inches of packed clay, a layer of gravel or packed sand, and then of course the concrete itself. In total it amounts to around 4-6 inches thick.
What is the Average Cost for a Stamped Concrete Driveway?
Stamped concrete is merely a fraction of the cost of natural stone, brick, or pavers. Expect it to be around half the price of building with traditional materials. But the saying holds true “you get what you pay for.” Stamped driveways are still a quality long-term investment as they typically cost around $12-$18 per square foot.
Where can I put a Stamped Concrete Driveway?
Stamped concrete driveways are great on flat or steep grades. They work well if the driveway must include twists and turns. With limitless colors to choose from, stamped driveways can seamlessly blend in with the aesthetic of your space.
Will the Color Fade?
With proper care, colors don’t fade. But it’s natural for sunny spots to see some fading. Harsh winter weather can also cause added wear and tear. It’s best to re-seal every 2-3 years to maintain a fresh color.
What are the Advantages of Stamped Concrete over other Materials?
The most notable advantage is the cost. It’s not only far cheaper than other materials, but it’s an investment that can actually increase your home’s value. But while it costs almost half of what natural materials cost, it’s no less durable. In fact, stamped concrete can last over 25 years if properly installed and maintained. It’s a win-win.
Can it Go Over an Existing Concrete Driveway?
Short answer, yes. The longer answer is we suggest you have us come out to look at your situation so that we can make the correct response. There are many factors that will impact our answer. So long as the base surface is level and sturdy, the stamped concrete on top should last and wear optimally.
What Patterns are Available for a Stamped Concrete Driveway?
Morrison Custom Concrete carries stamps made by Brickform. With each stamp, there are endless options to choose between different textures, patterns, and depths. We will help you choose the correct stamp that fits your home’s aesthetic.
Where in Chester County has Morrison Custom Concrete done Stamped Concrete?
If you’ve spent any time around Chester County, there’s a good chance you have come across one of Morrison Custom Concrete projects. In fact, we have completed over 3,000 projects in homes and businesses across Wayne, Paoli, Devon, Malvern, and Glenmoore PA. Take a look at some of our favorite projects to explore the possibilities of stamped concrete driveways with Morrison Custom Concrete.