5 Frequently Asked Concrete Questions

At Hacker’s Concrete Impressions, our goal is to ensure our customers are pleased with the work we do. And often, that begins with us answering their questions about our process and our product, because we believe the better informed our customers are, the happier they will be with the final result.

So with that in mind, here are five questions we are frequently asked about concrete work.

1. What’s the difference between concrete and cement?

Although people often use them interchangeably, concrete and cement are two different materials. Cement is one of the components that makes concrete, acting as a binding agent that holds all the other ingredients together, says Home Depot.

Concrete is stronger and more durable than cement and can last for decades. Most construction projects use general purpose concrete, while reinforced concrete is preferred for driveways and similar projects since it resists cracking even under heavy pressure.

2. What will give me more bang for my driveway project buck: asphalt or concrete?

While asphalt may be cheaper to install per square foot, it won’t last as long as a concrete driveway. According to the Indiana Ready Mixed Concrete Association (IRMCA), the lifespan of an asphalt driveway is typically 15 to 20 years, while a concrete driveway can last 30 to 40 years. Concrete also maintains its structure under intense UV exposure and has a greater load resistance. In short, concrete is more cost-effective in the long run.

And options such as decorative stamped patterns, textures and finishes will add to the curb appeal of your home, increasing its value. 

3. How long will it take for my concrete driveway to cure?

According to Concrete Network, a standard trowel- or broom-finished concrete driveway can handle foot traffic after about 24 hours. If you opted for a decorative stamped pattern, wait at least another day or so to avoid leaving permanent marks. (That goes for pets, too, since their claws can damage the surface.)

After at least three days, your driveway can handle bicycles, scooters, or skateboards, but wait a week before driving and parking your car on the new concrete surface. If you have heavier vehicles like trucks or RVs, wait at least 28 days, recommends Concrete Network, since it takes that long for full curing—the chemical process that gives its concrete strength. And keep in mind that the edges of the new driveway are more vulnerable to damage.

4. What is an exposed aggregate finish?

Also called a buff wash, an exposed aggregate finish is specially treated to expose the fine sand, stone, and mineral blends that are within the concrete. Once the fresh concrete is poured, a specialized chemical surface deactivator is applied that prevents the top layer of the concrete from fully setting.

When the concrete has reached the proper curing stage, a power washer is used to carefully remove that top surface layer, producing a bright and detailed finish that still remains uniform and professionally polished.

5. I want an attractive walkway. Which is better: decorative concrete or pavers?

There are several key advantages of choosing decorative concrete instead of pavers. First is the plethora of design choices, from natural stone and brick to slate and wood that mimic high-end materials without the high cost and maintenance requirements. And because the concrete surface doesn’t have joints or spaces like a paver walkway, weeds won’t have a chance to proliferate.

There is also the durability factor. A concrete walkway can handle the weather—from hot sun to frigid temperatures—without fading. Finally, when properly installed, your walkway will remain in place, unlike pavers which can be subject to shifting or settling.

In short, a decorative concrete walkway offers the perfect combination of beauty, strength, and long-term value.

Hacker’s Concrete Impressions specializes in high-quality concrete work that is built to last and designed to impress for homes and businesses throughout Columbus, Ohio and surrounding areas. We have a wide array of patterns, colors, and finishes available, allowing you to choose one that will complement your home’s exterior, landscaping, and personal style.

Rely on Hacker’s Concrete Impressions for a concrete project that is visually impressive and built to last.

Our customers are pleased with our work, and we know you will be, too! Contact us today for more information and to schedule a free estimate!