Concrete Driveways

Why Choose Concrete for Your Driveway

Your driveway takes a beating every single day. Cars weighing thousands of pounds roll over it. Weather beats down on it. Oil and other fluids drip onto it. You need a surface that can handle all of this without falling apart. Concrete driveways offer unmatched durability and longevity compared to asphalt or gravel alternatives. When installed correctly by experienced professionals, a concrete driveway can last 30 years or more with minimal maintenance.

Here in La Mirada, our climate is generally favorable for concrete, but proper installation techniques still matter tremendously. We account for soil conditions, drainage patterns, and local weather when designing your driveway. The result is a surface that resists cracking, stands up to vehicle weight, and maintains its appearance year after year. Many homeowners appreciate that concrete driveways do not need the frequent resealing that asphalt requires, saving you time and money over the life of your driveway.

Our Professional Installation Process

A quality driveway starts below the surface. We begin every concrete driveway project with thorough site preparation. This includes removing any existing surface material, excavating to the proper depth, and grading the area to ensure water drains away from your home. Poor drainage is one of the main reasons driveways fail prematurely, so we take this step seriously.

Next comes the base layer. We install and compact crushed stone or gravel to create a stable foundation. This base prevents settling that leads to cracks and uneven surfaces. For residential driveways, we typically pour concrete four to six inches thick, though we adjust this based on your specific needs. We add steel reinforcement or wire mesh to strengthen the concrete and control cracking. Our team carefully monitors the concrete mix and timing to achieve optimal strength and finish quality.

What Sets Our Work Apart

• Precise grading and slope calculation for proper water runoff
• High-quality concrete mix designed for California climate conditions
• Professional finishing techniques for both smooth and textured surfaces
• Proper joint placement to control where cracks occur
• Adequate curing time and methods to maximize concrete strength
• Clean edges and transitions that enhance your property appearance

Design and Finish Options

Your driveway does not have to be plain gray concrete. We offer several finish options to match your home's style and your personal preferences. A broom finish provides good traction and is the most economical choice. For a smoother look, we can create a trowel finish that works well in covered areas. If you want something more distinctive, consider our stamped concrete options that mimic brick, stone, or tile patterns.

Color is another way to customize your driveway. We can integrate color throughout the concrete or apply colored surface treatments. Border accents, decorative saw cuts, and exposed aggregate finishes add visual interest without significantly increasing cost. During your consultation, we will show you samples and photos of different options so you can make an informed choice. Keep in mind that decorative finishes require more installation time and careful maintenance to preserve their appearance.

Maintenance and Long-Term Care

Concrete driveways are low maintenance, but they are not no maintenance. To protect your investment and keep your driveway looking its best, you should seal it every two to three years. Sealing prevents water penetration, protects against stains, and can enhance the color if you chose a decorative finish. We recommend using a high-quality concrete sealer appropriate for your climate and traffic levels.

Clean up oil spills and other stains promptly to prevent permanent discoloration. Regular sweeping or power washing keeps dirt and debris from building up. Avoid using harsh chemicals or de-icing salts that can damage the concrete surface. If you notice small cracks developing, address them quickly with proper repair products to prevent water from getting underneath and causing bigger problems. Our team can also handle any concrete repairs if issues develop down the road.

Frequently Asked Questions