Concrete Driveways

Your driveway takes a beating every single day. Heavy vehicles, weather extremes, oil spills, and constant use all add up. That's why choosing the right material matters so much. Concrete driveways offer a level of durability that other materials simply can't match.

When we install a concrete driveway in Kent, OH, we're building something that will serve your family for 30 years or more. Compare that to asphalt, which typically needs replacement every 15 to 20 years. The upfront investment pays for itself over time because you won't be repaving or patching constantly.

Concrete also handles Ohio weather better than you might think. We pour with the proper thickness, reinforce with steel or fiber mesh, and add control joints to manage natural expansion and contraction. This means your driveway can handle freezing temperatures in January and scorching heat in July without cracking or breaking down.

Another big advantage is maintenance. You don't need to seal concrete driveways every few years like you do with asphalt. An occasional power wash keeps it looking clean, and that's about it. Your time is valuable, and concrete respects that.

Not all concrete driveways are created equal. The quality of your finished driveway depends entirely on what happens before we even pour the concrete. At RegalCrest Kent Concrete, we start every project with proper site preparation because shortcuts here lead to problems later.

Our Installation Process

• Remove existing materials and excavate to the proper depth
• Grade the base for proper drainage away from your home
• Compact a gravel sub-base to create a stable foundation
• Install steel rebar or fiber mesh reinforcement
• Pour quality concrete to the correct thickness (typically 4 to 6 inches)
• Finish the surface with the texture you want
• Cut control joints to prevent random cracking
• Apply curing compound to ensure proper strength development

Each step matters. If we skip proper grading, water pools on your driveway or runs toward your foundation. If we don't compact the base correctly, the concrete settles unevenly over time. If we rush the curing process, the surface doesn't develop its full strength.

We also consider your specific needs. Do you park heavy trucks or RVs? We'll increase the thickness and reinforcement. Is your property on a slope? We'll plan for drainage and add texture for better traction. Every driveway project gets customized to match your situation.

Concrete doesn't have to be boring gray. Modern finishing techniques give you plenty of design options to match your home's style and boost curb appeal. Let's walk through what's possible.

A standard broom finish provides texture and traction. It's practical, affordable, and works well for most homes. If you want something more interesting, we can add color to the concrete mix or apply stains after it cures. Earth tones like tan, brown, and terracotta are popular because they hide dirt and complement most home exteriors.

For a high-end look, consider stamped concrete patterns that mimic brick, stone, or tile. We press patterns into the surface while the concrete is still wet, creating texture and visual interest. This gives you the appearance of expensive pavers at a fraction of the cost.

You can also combine finishes. Some homeowners choose a standard finish for the main driveway with a stamped border for contrast. Others add sawcut patterns to break up large areas. The key is choosing options that fit your budget while giving you the look you want.

Border options matter too. We can add curves, flares, or geometric edges instead of straight lines. These details make your driveway feel more custom and intentional. It's worth thinking through design options before we start because changes are much harder once concrete is poured.

The cost of a concrete driveway depends on several factors, and understanding them helps you make informed decisions. Let's break down what affects your final price.

Size is the obvious starting point. A standard two-car driveway runs about 20 feet wide and 20 to 30 feet long. Larger driveways cost more simply because they require more materials and labor. If you need extra parking space or a turnaround area, expect the price to increase proportionally.

Site conditions play a big role. Properties with good drainage and stable soil are easier to work with. If your lot slopes significantly or has drainage issues, we need to do more prep work. Removing old concrete or asphalt adds to the timeline and cost. Access matters too because difficult sites require more time and effort.

Thickness and reinforcement affect durability and price. Standard driveways use 4-inch thick concrete, but we recommend 5 to 6 inches if you park heavy vehicles regularly. Adding steel rebar costs more than fiber mesh, but it provides better reinforcement for challenging conditions.

Decorative finishes increase costs but add significant value. A basic broom finish is most affordable. Color, stamping, and custom borders cost more but create a truly custom look. Many homeowners find the upgrade worth it because quality concrete work increases property value.

Think long-term when comparing costs. A concrete driveway costs more upfront than asphalt, but it lasts twice as long with less maintenance. Over 30 years, concrete actually costs less per year of service. You're making an investment in your property that pays dividends through durability and curb appeal.