This creates a textured, nuanced look that many homeowners prefer over the blank canvas look of regular grey concrete. Unlike asphalt pavements that are made with nonrenewable petroleum supplies, concrete pavements are made from abundant, sustainable resources including water, natural rock and sand, and cement. The predominant raw material for the cement in concrete is limestone, the most abundant mineral on earth. The best material to fill concrete cracks depends on the size of the crack. You can fill small to moderate cracks with epoxy or masonry filler, but large cracks require patching compound.

Concrete, cement and the environment

We’ll also help you determine when it’s time to call in the pros for concrete crack repair. On the whole, it’s cheaper to pour a concrete driveway than to lay pavers. While stone or brick pavers have their appeal, they are a more expensive material to purchase by the square foot, and they require more intensive labor to install. However, two cost-effective advantages to consider for stone pavers are that they are much easier to repair if they are damaged and can withstand temperature fluctuation. Most concrete driveways last 30 to 40 years, but that can vary based on a few factors.

Your new driveway will not only enhance the curb appeal of your home but also provide a smooth and reliable surface for many years of safe and enjoyable use. If you want to be absolutely certain of the concrete’s readiness for vehicle traffic, you can opt for a strength test. This involves hiring a professional to conduct a compressive strength test on a small sample of the concrete. The test results will provide accurate data on the concrete’s strength and can help determine if it is safe to drive on.

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Concrete vs. Asphalt Driveway

Before driving on a new concrete driveway, look for signs of readiness such as hardness, color change, and absence of moisture. Conduct a strength test or seek professional advice for added assurance. Implement proper maintenance to protect your investment and ensure long-term durability. Having a brand new concrete driveway can be an exciting addition to your home.

Concrete Slab Calculator

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Currently, there is not an End-of-Waste criteria for concrete materials in the EU. However, different sectors have been proposing alternatives for concrete waste and re purposing it as a secondary raw material in various applications, including concrete manufacturing itself. Concrete is an excellent material with which to make long-lasting and energy-efficient buildings. However, even with good design, human needs change and potential waste will be generated.

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Structures employing Portland cement concrete usually include steel reinforcement because this type of concrete can be formulated with high compressive strength, but always has lower tensile strength. Therefore, it is usually reinforced with materials that are strong in tension, typically steel rebar. By following these maintenance tips, you can protect and prolong the life of your new concrete driveway. Once your new concrete driveway is ready for vehicle traffic, it is essential to implement proper maintenance practices to ensure its longevity and performance.

Concrete must be kept moist during curing in order to achieve optimal strength and durability. During curing hydration occurs, allowing calcium-silicate hydrate (C-S-H) to form. Over 90% of a mix’s final strength is typically reached within four weeks, with the remaining 10% achieved over years or even decades. The conversion of calcium hydroxide in the concrete into calcium carbonate from absorption of CO2 over several decades further strengthens the concrete and makes it more resistant to damage. This carbonation reaction, however, lowers the pH of the cement pore solution and can corrode the reinforcement bars. Decorative stones such as quartzite, small river stones or crushed glass are sometimes added to the surface of concrete for a decorative “exposed aggregate” finish, popular among landscape designers.