When looking to install a new concrete driveway it may seem like a good idea to install the driveway
yourself to save money on labour costs. However we would always recommend hiring a professional
to install a concrete driveway for you.
Although it is possible to install a concrete driveway yourself it is very hard work and there are things
that can go wrong where a professional concrete driveway layer will have the knowledge and
expertise to stop this from happening.
Time is crucial when you are laying a concrete driveway, this is because as soon as the concrete is
poured it will start to harden straight away. Professionals are able to do the excavation, preparation,
pour and finish quickly without any problems arising.
Another point to make as to why a professional should be used for your concrete driveway is that
they will usually be able to complete a concrete driveway project in a few days. It can take a
homeowner around a week just to complete the preparation work. Pouring the concrete is also very
hard work so a homeowner will need other people to help.
When installing a concrete driveway you must first remove all debris, grass and soil etc from the
area you wish to lay the driveway. Once the soil foundation is prepared the wooden frame can be
installed for the perimeter of the driveway. Gravel of around 4 inches is then added, graded and
compacted. This is also best left to the professionals as they have the correct tools at hand to
complete this task quickly and correctly. The reinforcement materials can then be added.
The next stage of the concrete driveway is then the pour of the concrete itself. This usually requires
a few people to be on hand. Professionals can pour from a ready mixer and the surface can be
smoothed and finished. Floating is then completed. This requires specialist tools to smooth the
concrete. How much floating and how well it is done will determine the finish of the concrete
driveway and how smooth this is. It involves a lot of skill and is best left to professionals.
The final stage is the curing of the concrete. It is the chemical process then hardens and strengthens
the concrete. Ideal curing is around 70 degrees with a damp surface but not wet. If the weather is
cool, curing will take longer. If it is very hot the surface should be dampened regularly.
You should always wait around a week before driving on the new concrete driveway. We suggest to
wait around 2 months to seal the concrete.
Concrete driveways are a skill and we always recommend that you use a professional to install your
concrete driveway. Contact our friendly team today if you have any queries or would like a quote for
a concrete driveway. Take a look at our domestic concrete page for more info.