Concrete Driveways

Why Concrete Makes the Best Driveway Material

When you are deciding on a driveway material, concrete stands out as the smartest long-term choice for Hutchinson homeowners. Unlike asphalt that needs sealing every few years or gravel that shifts and requires constant maintenance, a properly installed concrete driveway can last 30 years or more with minimal care. Concrete handles the freeze-thaw cycles of Kansas winters better than most alternatives because it does not crack and deteriorate as quickly when moisture seeps in and expands during cold snaps.

The upfront cost of concrete is higher than asphalt, but you save money over time because you are not paying for frequent repairs and resurfacing. Concrete also reflects sunlight better than dark asphalt, which means your driveway stays cooler in summer and does not contribute as much heat to your property. You can customize the look with different finishes like broom texture, exposed aggregate, or even stamped patterns that add curb appeal and increase your home value. When you invest in a concrete driveway, you are making a choice that pays off for decades.

Our team has poured hundreds of driveways throughout Hutchinson and surrounding areas, so we understand the local soil conditions and climate challenges. We know how to prepare your base properly, reinforce the slab where needed, and finish it to handle everything from daily car traffic to heavy trucks. Hutchinson Concrete delivers driveways that look great and perform even better year after year.

Our Professional Installation Process

What Happens During Your Driveway Project

A quality concrete driveway starts long before the concrete truck arrives. We begin by carefully excavating your driveway area to the proper depth, typically 6 to 8 inches depending on your soil and expected load. This excavation removes unstable topsoil and creates room for the base materials that prevent settling and cracking down the road. We haul away all debris and old concrete if you are replacing an existing driveway, leaving you with a clean workspace.

Next comes the critical base preparation that many contractors rush through or skip entirely. We bring in crushed gravel and compact it in layers using heavy equipment to create a rock-solid foundation. This compacted base provides drainage so water does not pool under your concrete, and it distributes weight evenly to prevent weak spots. We also grade everything to ensure water flows away from your home and garage. If your driveway has curves or special features, we build custom forms to create clean edges and the exact shape you want.

When we pour your driveway, we use concrete mixed to the right strength for vehicle traffic, typically 3,000 to 4,000 PSI. Our crew works quickly to spread and level the concrete before it begins to set. We add reinforcement like wire mesh or rebar in areas that need extra strength, such as where you turn your wheels or park heavy vehicles. After screeding the surface level, we apply your chosen finish and cut control joints that guide any minor cracking to stay hidden. The result is a driveway that looks professional and handles decades of use without major problems.

Key Features We Include

• •Proper slope and grading for water runoff away from structures
• •Steel reinforcement in high-stress areas for added durability
• •Control joints strategically placed to manage natural expansion and contraction
• •Minimum 4-inch thickness, thicker for heavy vehicles or soft soil
• •Smooth edges and clean lines that enhance your home's curb appeal

How to Keep Your Concrete Driveway Looking Great

One of the best things about concrete driveways is how little maintenance they require compared to other materials. You do not need to seal or resurface concrete every few years like asphalt. However, a few simple practices help your driveway look better and last even longer. Regular cleaning with a pressure washer or garden hose removes dirt, oil stains, and debris that can build up over time. For stubborn oil spots, use a concrete degreaser before they have a chance to penetrate deep into the surface.

Applying a concrete sealer every 2 to 3 years adds an extra layer of protection against moisture, stains, and surface wear. Sealing is especially helpful if you live in an area with harsh winters because it reduces water absorption that can lead to freeze-thaw damage. When ice and snow arrive, avoid using metal shovels or sharp tools that can chip or scratch your concrete. Instead, use plastic shovels and avoid harsh de-icing chemicals that break down the surface over time. Calcium chloride-based de-icers are safer than rock salt if you need something to melt ice quickly.

If you notice small cracks forming, address them early before they expand. Small cracks are normal as concrete naturally settles and adjusts to temperature changes. You can fill minor cracks with concrete repair caulk available at any hardware store. For larger issues like sinking sections or wide cracks, call us for a professional assessment. We offer concrete leveling services that can raise sunken areas and restore an even surface without the cost of full replacement. With basic care and attention, your concrete driveway will serve you well for 30 years or more.

Common Questions About Concrete Driveways