Concrete Driveway Chicago, IL | Coatings and Overlays
Driveways do more than just connect the road to the garage or car park. It is one of the elements that contribute to curb appeal. It has to look aesthetically pleasing to make that drive home feel like a warm embrace. If you have a driveway, you know how unappealing it could be especially when signs of damage start popping out. Before you even think about replacing the whole slab or covering it up with asphalt, consider calling a decorative concrete contractor first. You would be impressed at how economical, durable, and aesthetically pleasing your driveway will be after a good resurfacing.
Common Concrete Driveway Problems
A driveway in Chicago, IL is often exposed to different damaging elements. Some we can control, some we can’t. The most common issues it faces are:
- Cracks – This is the most common issue on any surface, old or new concrete, however, driveways can get worse with all the traffic and climatic changes it is exposed to. There are two types of cracks: working and non-working. Working are those that recur, often caused by regular movement under the slab. Non-working are those that do not recur.
- Spalling – This is often caused by freeze-thaw damage. Concrete is very porous. When water penetrates the slab and the temperature drops to freezing levels, the water expands and compresses repetitively due to freezing and thawing. This could weaken the surface and cause it to disintegrate.
Highly Recommended Concrete Resurfacing Overlays
For the driveway to be eligible for a resurfacing, it needs to be in a repairable state. If there is a deep damage that involves the steel structures underneath or the whole slab itself, then it might be more appropriate to replace it instead. But if yours pass for a resurfacing, then here are the top coatings and overlays recommended by concrete contractors that would definitely enhance the curb appeal:
- Stamped Concrete Overlay – With the use of stamp mats, patterns are imprinted on a thin overlay installed on an existing driveway. The cool thing about this is that it can be made to look like more expensive materials, such as running brick, flagstone, fractured slate, pavers, and more. Hand-staining it can make stone impressions a lot more realistic. In concrete stamped driveways, grooves of the imprinted pattern help improve grip or traction, making it a safer surface to drive on.
- Stained Concrete – If the driveway is still in good condition but you are looking to update its look at an economical cost, concrete staining is a highly recommended solution. Acid and water-based stains come in a variety of colors that Chicago concrete driveway owners can choose from.
- Spray Texture – This acrylic concrete coating is sprayed on the driveway and then troweled down to make the stucco-like texture more subtle. Although this troweled concrete finish is often used on concrete pool decks, it is also ideal for driveways because of its ability to reflect heat. This means no matter how long the driveway is exposed to sunlight, the surface stays cool enough to keep rubber tires from melting. A spray knockdown finish can be customized further with expansion joints or scorelines if you think it needs more traction.
Concrete Driveway Cost
One of the reasons why home and business owners in Chicago , IL prefer decorative concrete is that it is less expensive than other paving and flooring options. Chicago concrete driveway resurfacing or refinishing job costs less because it makes use of the existing slab, uses fewer new materials, and takes a short period of time to complete. There are, however, factors that could affect the cost.
- Size of the job or concrete space
- Level of surface preparation needed. This includes cleaning, stripping, driveway Chicago concrete repair,etc.
- The type of system or material used
- Any additional service like custom scoring, hand-staining, and more.
Is concrete driveway worth it?
Absolutely! Concrete offers more designs compared to plain gray or black asphalt. You can match up the color scheme of your house with concrete driveway. Also, it can last for 30 years with low-maintenance. It is a good choice if you aim for both quality and aesthetics.
Transform your driveway from drab to dazzling. Call (773)377-8976 for more options.
Who wouldn’t want to drive on an awesome Chicago concrete driveway? A driveway resurfacing not only enhances curb appeal but also increases the property resale value of your home. We at Chicago Concrete Driveway Resurfacing are committed to providing top quality driveway solutions that make lives easier and more enjoyable. Our highly trained decorative concrete team takes pride in the work we do. Each old or new concrete is treated with utmost care as if it is our own. We pay great attention to detail, making sure that every single inch is installed meticulously.
But don’t take our word for it. Call or email us to learn more about our concrete work services. We’ll give you a free consultation and price quote, too. We are one of the leading concrete contractors in the area!
