Concrete Driveways
We build durable, long-lasting concrete driveways that enhance your home's curb appeal and stand up to New England weather.
Why Choose Concrete for Your Driveway
Your driveway is one of the first things people see when they visit your home. A quality concrete driveway not only looks great but also adds real value to your property. Unlike asphalt that needs frequent repairs and resealing, concrete gives you decades of reliable performance with minimal maintenance.
Here in Andover, MA, we deal with harsh winters, heavy snow loads, and freeze-thaw cycles that can destroy weaker materials. Concrete handles all of it. When installed correctly with proper base preparation and drainage, a concrete driveway can last 30 years or more. That's a lifetime investment that pays for itself in durability and curb appeal.
Key Benefits of Concrete Driveways
- Lasts 30 to 50 years with proper installation and minimal upkeep
- Withstands heavy vehicle weight, snowplows, and harsh winter conditions
- Increases property value and creates strong first impressions
- Requires very little maintenance compared to asphalt or pavers
- Offers design flexibility with stamped patterns, colors, and finishes
How We Install Your Driveway the Right Way
The secret to a long-lasting concrete driveway is not just the concrete itself. It's what happens before we ever pour a single yard. We take proper preparation seriously because we know that's where most driveways fail. Many contractors cut corners on base work to save time or money, but that always catches up to homeowners later.
Site Preparation and Excavation
We start by removing the existing driveway material if needed, then excavate to the proper depth. The depth depends on your soil type and how much vehicle traffic you expect. For most residential driveways in Andover, we excavate 8 to 10 inches. This gives us room for a solid base layer plus 4 to 6 inches of concrete on top.
Base and Grade Work
Next comes the base material. We use crushed stone or gravel that compacts well and drains properly. This layer gets compacted in lifts with heavy equipment until it's rock solid. We also establish the proper grade so water runs off your driveway instead of pooling. Poor drainage is one of the biggest reasons driveways crack prematurely.
Reinforcement and Concrete Placement
We install steel reinforcement or fiber mesh to give your concrete extra strength. Then we pour high-quality concrete mix designed for our climate. Our team works quickly to place, level, and finish the concrete before it starts setting. We cut control joints at strategic locations to control where any future cracks might form. Finally, we apply the finish you chose, whether that's a smooth trowel, broom finish, or decorative stamped pattern.
What Affects the Cost of Your Concrete Driveway
Every driveway project is different, so costs vary based on several factors. We always provide transparent estimates that break down exactly what you're paying for. No surprises, no hidden fees.
Size and Shape
The square footage is the biggest factor. A standard two-car driveway in Andover runs about 400 to 600 square feet. Curved driveways, turnarounds, or extra-wide sections add to the total. We measure everything carefully during your free estimate so you know exactly what to expect.
Site Conditions and Access
Some properties are easier to work on than others. If we need to remove an old driveway, haul away debris, or deal with poor soil conditions, that affects the price. Tight access that requires smaller equipment or hand work also adds time. We evaluate all of this during the estimate so there are no surprises later.
Finish and Design Options
A basic broom finish is the most economical choice and works great for most homes. If you want to upgrade to stamped concrete, exposed aggregate, or colored concrete, that adds to the cost but creates a truly custom look. We can show you samples and discuss options that fit your budget.
Frequently Asked Questions About Concrete Driveways
Ready to get started on your new concrete driveway?
Call (978) 684-0096 for a Free Estimate