Exposure to the elements can begin to break down your concrete driveway. The crumbling pavement can create safety hazards and diminish your home’s curb appeal. Installing a new concrete driveway can be a rewarding, challenging project for experienced do-it-yourselfers. To avoid forgetting to buy gravel aggregate and other materials and tools needed for the job, below is a quick guide to the installation process.

4 Steps to Install a Concrete Driveway

1. Grade the Earth & Install Formwork

To prevent rainwater from settling on the concrete, you’ll have to create a slope to direct it away from the installation. After grading the land for water drainage, place wooden formwork around the perimeter where you plan to pour the concrete. This will keep the materials in place while you work. 

2. Compact the Aggregate Base

Concrete driveways are installed in layers. The bottom layer is the graded soil, and above that is the base. You should use gravel aggregate for this layer, as it will improve water drainage, prevent driveway shifting, and minimize or eliminate cracking during freeze-thaw cycles. After laying the gravel aggregate, use a compacting machine to secure it in place. 

3. Pour the Concrete

After you’ve compacted the aggregate, wet it with water in preparation to pour ready-mix concrete on top. This is a two-person part of the process, as one person will pour the concrete in sections while the other uses a shovel or hoe to spread out and compact the material. After the concrete is poured, run a long wooden plank across it to remove any raised areas. You should also use a darby or bull float to even out and smooth the surface. You’ll also need to place joint formers in the concrete to prevent cracks when fluctuating temperatures cause it to expand and shrink.

4. Use a Wood Float for Finishing

Once the concrete starts to harden, run a wood float over the material. This will remove any remaining imperfections and create a smooth finish. Concrete needs time to completely cure, as drying too fast could lead to performance problems later. To slow the drying process, place a plastic sheet or damp burlap covering over the driveway.

If you need gravel aggregate for your DIY concrete driveway installation, reach out to the team at Syracusa Sand & Gravel in Victor, NY. They are the go-to gravel and stone supplier in the area for a wide range of projects. The team will help you navigate the selection to ensure you are satisfied with your purchases. To learn more about state-approved gravel products available in Ontario County, call (585) 924-7146. Visit the company online for additional merchandise details.