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Concrete is one of the most durable and long-lasting materials used in construction. However, even concrete can start to show its age after a few years. If your concrete driveway is looking cracked and faded, there are a few simple ways to give it new life. First, power washes the surface to remove any dirt or debris that has built up over time. Next, apply a fresh coat of concrete sealer. This will help to protect the driveway from weather damage and staining. Finally, consider adding a decorative border around the edges of the driveway. This can be done by installing pavers or edging stones. With a little bit of work, you can transform an ugly concrete driveway into a beautiful and welcoming entrance to your home.
How to Improve an Ugly Concrete Driveway
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When your concrete driveway has seen better days or if you are just tired of the drab gray surface, take heart. You have several options to choose from to give your old, ugly driveway a facelift. Most processes are applied to driveways that are in good condition. If yours has deteriorated, however, you can still improve the appearance by removing the old driveway and replacing it with a more appealing surface.
Staining
Concrete driveways that are in good condition — free of cracks, oil, grime, or other coatings — are suitable for a process known as concrete staining. The stain, unlike paint, permeates the concrete, giving your driveway a rich, translucent color resulting in a mottled or variegated appearance. If you choose acid stains, you are limited to earth tones, but water-based stains are available in a wide range of color options. Special effects are possible to create the look of natural stone, marble, and even wood.
Stamping
Concrete stamping is an option for creating a natural stone appearance on your driveway. Depending on the color or pattern you choose, you can have the look of slate, flagstone, cobblestone, tile, or brick without the high cost associated with those natural products. Stamped concrete is a low-maintenance option that, when properly installed, will last for decades. Although concrete stamping is often applied to new concrete driveways, stamped overlays are used to enhance existing concrete that is in good condition.
Etching
You can create a one-of-a-kind driveway with a technique known as etching. Patterns and designs are etched into your existing driveway with special tools to create a permanent design. The choice of designs includes stone patterns, special logos, and graphics. The patterns are further enhanced by staining. Etching is suitable for any style of home by choosing a design that harmonizes with the colors and design of your residence.
Pavers
If your concrete driveway is beyond hope, you may consider removing it and starting over with a new surface that you can stamp or stain. But you can also replace your existing driveway with pavers. Paving stones are available in a variety of textures and colors and are installed over a prepared sub-base. The pavers are interlocking and form a patterned surface. Although pavers are more expensive than resurfacing procedures, they are durable and can be driven on immediately after installation. If pavers are damaged, it is possible to remove and replace individual pavers.
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