What goes into a good driveway
Most driveway problems start underneath. Cracks, sinking and puddles usually come from a soft base, missing steel or the wrong fall, not from the concrete on top.
So the work starts with digging out to the right depth and compacting a crushed-rock base in layers. Then we set the formwork so water runs away from the garage and the house, and lift the steel mesh on bar chairs so it sits inside the slab rather than on the ground.
On the day it's poured, screeded and finished, and control joints are cut where the slab wants to crack, so any cracking happens in a straight line where you can't see it.
Replacing an old driveway
If your existing driveway is cracked, lifting or breaking up, we can remove it, deal with whatever caused the problem underneath, and pour a new one. Tree roots and poor drainage are common culprits in established Canberra suburbs.
Picking a finish
A broom finish gives good grip and suits steep driveways. Exposed aggregate is hard-wearing, hides tyre marks and dirt well, and is popular on newer homes. Coloured concrete and a smooth plain finish suit flatter driveways. We'll tell you honestly what works on your slope.
The verge crossing
The section of driveway between your boundary and the road sits on public land. In the ACT, building or changing a driveway verge crossing generally needs approval from Transport Canberra and City Services first. Ask us when you get your quote and we'll talk you through it.
Common questions
How long before I can drive on a new driveway?
It depends on the mix and the weather. As a rough guide you can usually walk on it after a day or two, and cars are kept off for at least a week. We'll give you the dates for your job before we leave.
Can you take out my old driveway?
Yes. We can remove the existing concrete and spoil, fix the base underneath, and pour the new driveway.
Which finish is best on a steep driveway?
A broom finish gives the most grip. Exposed aggregate is also good underfoot. Smooth finishes are best kept for flatter driveways.
Do you pour in winter?
Yes, but Canberra frosts mean we plan pours around the forecast and protect fresh concrete when needed. If the weather turns, we move the day and tell you first.