Concrete is an exceptionally resilient and hard material, one of the many reasons it’s a popular choice for driveway installation in Springfield, IL. Although installation is relatively hassle-free, understanding the preparation process helps homeowners like you work closely with our teams at Moss Concrete & Excavating. If you’re ready to start picking out, pouring, and parking on a brand-new concrete driveway, here’s what you’ll need to know.

Clearing the Way for Your Driveway

Once poured and hardened, concrete is – unsurprisingly – very heavy. That means that the base beneath your new Springfield, IL driveway needs to be level and capable of supporting that weight continuously. In addition to leveling the dirt or soil, your new driveway will need a “bed” of fill, including rocks, gravel, mesh, or even sand, all of which are typically delivered to the property. These materials will need to be ‘tamped’ – carefully leveled – to make sure the concrete dries evenly and won’t settle incorrectly.

Time-Sensitive Residential Concrete Application

While Moss Concrete & Excavating will take care of all the structure, pouring, and finishing of your new concrete driveway, the process needs to move forward once it has started because of how concrete needs to dry. That means clearing your schedule and ensuring any guests or visitors to your home know to park at the curb and avoid walking on or through the concrete installation at your Springfield, IL home. If you have any pets that spend time outdoors, secure them in the home, on the porch, or in a kennel during your driveway installation to prevent unwanted paw print “decorations.” Likewise, if you have children, it’s a great time to encourage indoor activities or play dates at a friend’s house.

Temporary No Parking Zone

Concrete will need time to harden and cure, typically a few days depending on the thickness of the slab, weather conditions and Springfield, IL temperature, and so on. Once your new driveway has been poured and installed, you must avoid walking on or parking cars on the surface for at least three days to ensure no shifting or cracking in the concrete material. When in doubt, ask Moss Concrete & Excavation for advice on using your new driveway; our team will be able to tell you when it’s safe to start putting weight on the surface.

And Finally, Enjoy Your New Driveway!

Now that you’ve navigated the process of having your new Springfield, IL concrete driveway installed, it’s time to enjoy it. Park your cars, break out the sidewalk chalk for the littlest family members and enjoy the smooth, even stroll to get the mail or bring out the garbage cans. The only thing that could make your new home investment even better is a matching concrete patio installation, and the good news: you can call us for that, too!