average cost to install a concrete driveway
Make sure the concrete forms are levelled after they have been completed. This is crucial, because the quality of concrete during the final stages will depend upon how accurate the prep work was. You can then reinforce any joints with an extra board on the exterior of the form in order to strengthen the shape. Before proceeding to the next stage, ensure that the form is level.
A gravel base may or not be required, depending upon the climate and soil conditions. Some locations are frostfree while other areas have soils that can expand or contract depending on the temperature. To protect concrete from ground changes, a layer of subbase gravel (or stones) is laid over the concrete in areas where frost has occurred.
Open-grade materials are less expensive and more water-draining, but finer grade stones or gravels can be compacted better and provide more stability. The subbase can be compacted using a hand tamper. Lay the sheets first if you're adding wire mesh to reinforce concrete.
You will need to wear safety glasses, gloves, and work gloves when mixing concrete. A concrete mixer is available for rent at $100 per person, although a wheelbarrow along with a shovel and elbow grease will be sufficient for small jobs. Two wheelbarrows may be helpful if you have help.
Before you start mixing the concrete mix with the water, make sure it is piping hot. If your area is prone to hard water, filtered water may be a better choice. It will help prevent concrete from turning a yellowish hue due to the efflorescence blooming. Concrete can take longer to cure and may cause a weaker result in large jobs. Call us to get more details about mixing concrete including how much water and the correct consistency.