New Driveway

[Iris 2]

Afternoon

We are looking at having a new driveway put down. Currently it's the bog standard cement/concrete finish but we are hoping to have something new done to give it some life and character.

Any recommendations as to how to tackle this and contractors to potentially do it?

Regards

Darrell

[Jimgym]

We have a stamped concrete driveway which over the years has faded. It's just been repainted with special paint suitable for our climate, and looks great. Not sure if that is of any use to you? I can send you the guys number if you are interested.

[Iris 2]

Thanks Jim - sounds like the sort of thing we are after.

Any idea on cost to have a new drive laid etc?

[Devil]

About eight years ago, I had stamped concrete done properly by a professional on a large area and also on a garage drive. On the garage drive, it was so inappropriate that we spend a lot of money having it dug up and replaced by bricks which still look the same as they did when first laid. The large parking area today looks terrible and, despite the expansion joints and 15 cm thick concrete with double reinforcement, it is cracked and I have to maintain the weeds that grow through the cracks and the expansion joints.

We have a neighbour who did the same (different professional company) and made the mistake of a buff colour. He, too, deeply regrets ever having heard of stamped concrete! His complaints were similar but include indelible tyre marks because of a ramp; when it is wet, there is no grip.

If you don't believe me, I invite you to come and see for yourself what stamped concrete really looks like after a few years.

Don't do it!