Category Archives: Concrete

12 Sep

Stunning concrete driveway ideas to change the exterior of your home

Stunning concrete driveway ideas to change the exterior of your home

Does the thought of concrete draw a dismal, gray structure? While that may have been the case in years past, concrete is now available in many finishes, colors, and patterns.

Stunning concrete driveway ideas

Read on to find out about new creative concrete driveway designs as well as the latest options in colors and patterns.

Stamped concrete

For several reasons, stamped concrete is a very popular choice for concrete driveway ideas. The first is that it may be stamped to mimic a variety of surfaces, including bricks, paving stones, and stones. Durability is the second benefit.

Concrete may last 40 years in the appropriate circumstances and requires very little upkeep. All that is needed is the proper installation, which should hold up in harsh weather or intense sunshine. Despite being relatively quick and simple to lay the concrete, it needs a few days to dry before you can use it.

In addition to having motifs that are simple to alter, stamped concrete can also be tinted. This offers a variety of choices at a very reasonable price.

Colored concrete driveway ideas

Concrete need not be lifeless and gray. The fact that concrete is available in a wide range of hues surprises a lot of people. Once the site has been mapped out, these colors are either dusted on or added to the concrete as it is being mixed.

The concrete hues are typically chosen to complement or blend in with the surrounding natural elements, or the home to the drive is attached. You should take into account the hue of the existing stones and woods while making your selection. Several colors range from black to cobalt blues and vibrant sandstone hues.

The price of this design option is slightly higher than that of typical gray concrete. This is because it requires additional work. The end result will more stand out and have have more character than traditional gray.

Colored concrete driveway ideas

Consider tinted concrete for your driveway if you want a genuinely distinctive appearance. It gives already-existing concrete surfaces a finish by applying chemical stains. You get a patched, mottled, uneven texture that appears natural and contemporary when it reacts with the minerals in the concrete.

Thus, no two colored concrete surfaces are ever exactly alike. The results of producing colors can always vary, with arbitrary patterns and outcomes. As a result, you should anticipate an uneven finish that provides depth and warmth.

Concrete  etching

A pre-existing driveway can look brand-new and pristine with concrete etching, also known as engraving. A driveway already installed has patterns and decorations etched into it, and the engraved driveway is frequently stained to give it a glossy, lustrous sheen.

Staining the surface first to give it color is one of the most popular techniques. After the etching, the original color beneath is revealed, leaving behind a two-tone pattern. It is an excellent concrete driveway idea to add character and warmth to plain, drab concrete.

Sawed design

Concrete driveway ideas with sawed and grooved patterns have functional and aesthetic appeal, and they are grooved using a specialized hand tool or applied with a special concrete saw. You might discover that many color schemes can be used in the design with concrete staining.

The capacity to avoid skidding and accidents provides the practical aspect. Although it has a more practical look, sawed and grooved concrete is frequently found in locations like airports and roads. Its uneven surface may add much-needed traction if you reside in a location with severe winters.

Exposed aggregate

Exposing aggregate is one of the latest concrete driveway trendss. The technique has been used for over 100 years and has a classic appearance. It entails mixing aggregate with concrete, pouring it, and removing the top layer. This can produce an appearance as stunning as marble that has been laid.

The aggregate can be exposed in a number of ways, and each produces a somewhat distinct finish. One of these is brushing and cleaning, a traditional technique that doesn’t call for equipment or chemicals. A forceful water spray and broom are all needed to remove the top surface to the desired depth.

Another approach is to spray a chemical retarder on the concrete after it has been laid. To prevent the concrete from hardening, the exposed can later be cleaned with a pressure washer or scrubber. The third technique involves removing the top layer with abrasive blasting, either with a sandblaster or a shotgun.

Concrete paving stones

Because they require little upkeep and are durable, concrete pavers are one of the popular concrete driveway ideas. They offer the benefit of letting you replace a single paver rather than having to redo the entire driveway if you ever need to. You can use them immediately because they do not need time to set like a laid concrete drive.

Shapes, sizes, and colors are just a few variations that pavers can have. Additionally, they can be combined to make unique patterns and borders using different paving stone combinations. The main drawback is that it is more expensive than plain or imprinted concrete.

Discover reliable concrete services

Once you’ve decided on a the look and feel you want to achieve for your driveway, speak with a professional for advice on concrete driveway ideas. Find a concrete contractor who can design and deliver various solutions and has excellent reviews.

Jireh Concrete Services should be your first stop. We are always pleased to come to your house and discuss your options. Get a free estimate today!

22 Aug

The Different Types Of Concrete And Their Use In Construction

Types of Concrete

Concrete is the composite mixture of cement, water, and fine or coarse aggregates. These aggregates can be composed of geological materials, such as sand and gravel, or sourced materials like grounded glass.

Types of Concrete

You may think that concrete is just concrete, but there are, in fact, many types of this popular building material. Concrete can be categorized based on its method of application, design mix, mode of construction, and the constituent materials used.

Each has its advantages and disadvantages, which is why it’s important to understand the differences before you start planning your next construction project. This article aims to familiarize you with the different types of concrete. Also, we’ll discuss some of the options you have to consider when picking from various types of concrete for your project.

Shotcrete

Shotcrete is a type of concrete made by blasting concrete material or mortar under high pressure through a hose and nozzle onto a surface. It is often used for construction projects that require a quick and efficient way to apply concrete, such as tunneling, mining, and bridge building.

Gunite

Gunite is a type of concrete that is made up of sand, cement, and water. It is very similar to shotcrete, the notable difference being their application mode.

Gunite is a dry mix of concrete that only mixes with water as it is being pneumatically applied through a hose and nozzle to the surface that needs to be concreted. This type of concrete is most commonly used for swimming pools, as it can be easily molded to the desired shape.

Fiber-Reinforced Concrete

Fiber-reinforced concrete, or FRC, is a type of concrete that uses fibers to improve its mechanical properties. The fibers help to make the concrete stronger, more durable, and less likely to crack.

FRC is often used in construction projects requiring high strength and durability, such as highways, bridges, and airport runways. It is also used in marine construction projects, as it is resistant to corrosion and swelling caused by salt water.

Lightweight Concrete

Lightweight concrete is a type of concrete that’s designed to be lighter than traditional concrete. It’s made with materials like foamed glass or expanded clay that make it less dense, meaning it’s easier to move and install.

While it’s not as strong as traditional concrete, lightweight concrete is a great option for projects that need a lightweight material, such as flooring or roofing. It’s also a good choice for areas that are prone to earthquakes, as it’s less likely to cause damage in the event of an earthquake.

Foamed or Air-Trained Concrete

When choosing the right type of concrete for your project, it’s important to know about all the options available. Foamed concrete is one such option, and it’s ideal for various applications.

Foamed concrete is created by adding an expanding agent to regular concrete. This causes the concrete to bubble and form millions of small air bubbles. These air bubbles make the concrete lightweight and increase its insulation value. Foamed concrete is also more resistant to cracking than traditional concrete, making it a great choice for projects like foundations and walls.

Roller-Compacted Concrete

Roller-compacted concrete is a type of concrete that’s made by compacting aggregate material using a roller. This type of concrete is often used for projects that require a high level of strength and durability, such as bridges, parking lots, and highways. Roller-compacted concrete is also known for its resistance to wear and tear and ability to withstand extreme weather conditions.

Polymer Concrete

Polymer concrete is made up of a polymer matrix and fillers. The matrix is usually a resin, such as epoxy, polyester, or vinyl ester, and the fillers are inert materials, such as sand or crushed glass. The mix is then placed in a mold and allowed to cure.

Polymer concrete is used for a variety of applications, including:

  • Flooring
  • Overlayment
  • Repairing patches
  • Paving stones
  • Decorative elements

Limecrete

Limecrete is made from a blend of limestone, water, and sand and has a much higher thermal mass than other types of concrete. This means that it can store and release heat slowly, making it an excellent choice for floors, vaults, and walls in buildings that need to be thermally insulated.

Asphalt Concrete

Asphalt concrete is a type of concrete that’s made with asphalt, a type of petroleum product. It’s most commonly used for paving roads, as the asphalt helps to make it more durable and resistant to wear and tear. However, asphalt concrete is also used for airport runways, parking lots, and other asphalt surfaces.

Rapid-Set Concrete

Rapid-set concrete is a type of concrete that dries very quickly. This makes it a great choice for projects that require a fast turnaround, such as concrete countertops, flooring, or patio slabs.

One of the main benefits of using rapid-set concrete is having a finished product in as little as 24 hours. However, it’s important to note that because it dries so quickly, it can be more difficult to work with than other types of concrete. If you’re not familiar with the material, it’s best to hire a professional to help you with your project.

Pervious Concrete

There’s a new type of concrete on the market that is perfect for those with green thumbs. Pervious concrete is a special kind of pavement that allows water to seep through to the soil below, helping to keep the ground moist and reducing the amount of runoff.

This innovative concrete is perfect for use in yards and gardens, as it helps to prevent erosion and keep plants healthy. It’s also great for driveways and sidewalks, as it allows for better drainage than traditional concrete.

Conclusion

There are many types of concrete, and each has its own set of benefits and drawbacks. It is important to understand the differences so you can choose the appropriate type of concrete for your project. If you’re in need of a concrete provider, Jireh Construction Services is a trusted provider servicing Seattle and the Washington State area.

04 May

The Best Ways to Maintain Your Concrete Surfaces

concrete surfaces

Your Concrete Surfaces

Concrete is one of the most popular materials people choose in landscaping. One of the main reasons is its versatility because you can use it as pavers or just pour it on the surface. Concrete is also durable, and you can customize the color and texture finish depending on your aesthetic goals.

 

However, concrete surfaces get beat up over time, mainly because of exposure to weather elements like any other material. Some of the tips you can use to maintain the new and uniform look of your concrete include:

 

Cleaning

 

This is one of the basic yet essential maintenance practices for your concrete surfaces. Concrete is porous, which makes liquids sip through it, which could easily stain it. Therefore, you should clean your concrete surface immediately after pouring anything on it.

 

Cleaning also helps remove weeds and grass that could be growing along the edge and joints. These make the surface look bad and could also cause cracks because of the root system expansion.

 

For regular cleaning, you only need to use soap and water. For tougher stains, you can use vinegar, baking soda, and bleach, but don’t use harsh chemicals as that could damage the surface. You could also use a pressure washer, but avoid using it along any cracks.

 

Sealing

 

This is the most effective way to keep water from slipping into the concrete, which eventually causes cracks. If you are using concrete pavers, ensure you fill the joints often. This prevents water from sipping into the concrete through the joints.

 

It also prevents dirt from accumulating in them or weeds growing in them, making the pavers lose.

If you are not using pavers, ensure you seal the concrete surface at least once in two years. This helps repel moisture and stains, offers surface resistance against abrasion and UV rays, and makes it dustproof.

 

How often you reseal your concrete surface depends on the type of sealer you use, weather conditions, and traffic on the concrete surface. If you use an acrylic-resin sealer, you need to redo it after around two years. However, if you use a penetrating sealer, you can go for ten years without redoing it.

 

Repair cracks as soon as possible

 

One of the downsides of using concrete in landscaping is its vulnerability to cracks. Even the smallest cracks could cause a lot of damage to the surface because it allows moisture and debris to penetrate the surface.

 

Therefore, it is essential you repair cracks as soon as you see them. You can repair small cracks yourself, but it is best to call the professionals for more significant cracks. To prevent cracks, avoid dropping heavy and sharp objects on the surface.

 

You should also wipe off any fertilizer that falls on the surface as you fertilize the vegetation. That is because the chemicals in the fertilizer affect the concrete, causing cracks and other degeneration forms.

 

Apply a new surface

 

Even with a sealer, your concrete surface might suffer and look old because of the traffic and weather elements. Recoating the surface after around three to five years will keep it looking new and fresh and increase its durability. You can also renew the concrete surface by adding new paint or finish to the new coat.

To ensure that the new coat properly adheres to the old one, it’s important to sweep, pressure wash, or etch the old surface.

 

Use the right deicing products

 

Experts recommend that you don’t use deicing chemicals on your concrete surfaces, especially before they are one year old. Since deicing chemicals work by changing the temperatures, they expose your concrete surface to a freeze and thaw cycle, which could cause cracking.

 

The saline solution, which the chemicals form from the ice and snow, penetrates through the porous concrete surface. They expand and contract as they freeze, inducing more damage.

 

You should also check the chemical composition of the deckers you use. This is because those containing ammonium sulfates and ammonium nitrates chemically attack the concrete. Calcium chloride or sodium chloride don’t affect the concrete too much chemically, but be careful not to use them on the vegetation around.

 

The safest way to deice tour concrete is using sand or scraping and shoveling. However, you should avoid using metal shovels and instead use plastic ones. You should also raise your snow blower’s blades to prevent scratching the surface.

 

Call the professionals

 

Whether you want to repair cracks, reseal, or recoat your concrete surface, the best way to get quality services is by calling the professionals. At Jireh Asphalt and Concrete, we are here to help with all your concrete needs.

 

We guarantee you the best results with our highly trained and experienced employees, state-of-the-art equipment, and high-quality materials.

 

Before starting the job, we will show you a gallery of our past work or inspiration photos and videos to help you choose what you want. Our professionals will work with you in every step of the job, ensuring that you get what you ask for.

 

We also inspect the nature and size of the job before we start, then give you an accurate and well-detailed quote. Call us today for more information or get your free quote.

 

20 Apr

Best Uses for Asphalt and Concrete?

Best Uses for Asphalt and Concrete?

Best Uses for Asphalt and Concrete?

Asphalt and concrete are both great paving materials. Between the two, they offer paving solutions for almost every imaginable situation. However, each material has areas where it excels along with weaknesses, so you should assess each paving project independently to determine which one is best.

In this post, we’ll discuss the best uses for asphalt and concrete as paving materials and factors to consider. Read More →

20 Jul

Popular Concrete Patio Ideas

Popular Concrete Patio IdeasPopular Concrete Patio Ideas

The days of a concrete patio being nothing more than a dull gray slab are over. Modern concrete patios come in a variety of textures, colors, and finishes. It is now possible to turn your concrete patio ideas into stylish looks with maximum functionality. Here in Seattle, outdoor patios can look great while still standing up to freezing temps, heavy rain, and wild temperature fluctuations. Check out all the options to turn your concrete patio ideas from drab to fab:

  • Stamping

Stamping is a texturing technique that gives concrete the appearance of stone, brick, tile, or wood. Precise lines are imprinted into the concrete’s surface and then the stain is added to contrast against the color of the raised concrete surface. Raised concrete can be stained in a variety of colors to achieve the desired look. Stamping is often combined with other finishing techniques. Read More →

20 Feb

Should I Repair My Concrete?

Repair My Concrete

Should I Repair My Concrete?

Concrete is an excellent tool for a variety of outdoor needs, from driveways and patios to sidewalks, but it doesn’t last forever. Eventually, you may notice that your concrete develops holes or cracks that need to be repaired. Is now the best time to repair your concrete? Here’s what you need to know. 

Repair Your Concrete with Concrete Sealers

The purpose of a sealer is to provide long-term protection to your concrete that also enhances its color. Some sealers can be combined with cures that slow concrete hydration in order to minimize shrinkage and cracking. Other forms are just pure sealers.  Read More →

20 Jan

How Patio Pavers Can Improve the Look of Your Home

How Patio Pavers Can Improve the Look of Your Home

How Patio Pavers Can Improve the Look of Your Home

It’s not just your landscaping and home design that influence your curb appeal; it’s your patio and driveway as well! Using beautiful, sophisticated, and durable paver materials is an easy way to instantly boost the aesthetic of your property. If you’re contemplating which pavers you should use to improve the look of your home, consider these excellent options. 

Flagstone with Ground Cover

If you’re looking for patio pavers that make a statement while retaining a classic and natural look, you could opt for flagstone. Flagstone is a flat slab of stone that is rectangular or square. Since it’s natural rock, the color will always vary slightly from piece to piece, lending the patio a unique appearance. Also, as a natural cut stone, flagstone pieces cannot fit perfectly together like other paver options, so ground cover like moss can be used to fill the gaps between each piece.  Read More →

20 Oct

Pavers Vs. Concrete Slabs: Best for Project

 

Pavers Vs. Concrete Slabs: How To Decide Which Is Best for Your Project

When you want to spruce up your driveway, backyard paths, or garden paths, you might want to think twice about using concrete slabs. Although they can be cheaper to install, they have some down sides that should be considered. Pavers could be a much better option for your landscaping. Here is what you should consider when making your decision.

Concrete Slabs Vs. Pavers: How To Decide Which Is Best for Your Project

Maintenance over time

Concrete is pretty durable, but it does have some drawbacks. Larger concrete slabs don’t have the ability to shift and move with the earth. With each passing season, each temperature change, each weather event, the earth beneath and around that concrete changes ever so slightly. Over time, that means the concrete can crack and break. 

If you get concrete pavers instead, they are going to be much smaller and fit together in such a way that they can move with the ground instead of cracking.

Read More →

10 Sep

Asphalt Vs Concrete: How Paving and Coatings Differ

 

Asphalt Vs Concrete: How Paving and Coatings Differ

It is easy to see that there are big differences between concrete and asphalt, but that doesn’t make it any less confusing to treat your driveway the way you should. Asphalt or concrete, you should consider sealings or coatings for your driveway to protect it and reduce maintenance and repair costs in the future. Here are the differences in the sealers and coatings, what they do, and which should be applied.

Asphalt Vs Concrete: How Paving and Coatings Differ

Asphalt sealants

Asphalt sealants are meant to do more than make your driveway look good. These sealants are used to protect the asphalt and make it last longer. If you want your driveway to last, you’ll need to get a sealant applied after the first year of installation and periodically after that. These sealants don’t last forever, but they are very important if you don’t want to have to replace or repair your driveway.

Read More →