Get matched with top concrete driveway pros in Prescott Valley, AZ

In most cases, you will need a building permit for cement work on your property. You need a permit for any project that adds a permanent foundation on your property—which, in most cases, includes even a flat slab of concrete poured directly on the ground. Building permits for concrete projects usually cost between $100 and $500, although this can get higher for larger projects. You can always ask your cement company if a permit is necessary for your project, and the expert will typically pull the permit for you to save you time and energy.

There are quite a few differences between concrete and asphalt. Concrete is more costly up front and more challenging to repair. Asphalt does better in cold climates and works well with radiant heat systems. Porous asphalt is also excellent for wet climates, as it allows the water to drain away. However, it does get unpleasantly hot in the summer and requires more maintenance than concrete.

A properly installed 6-inch concrete slab, mixed and cured under the right conditions, can support about 3,000 pounds concentrated over a single square foot without buckling. Conversely, concrete pavers can handle around 8,000 pounds per square inch when laid over a solid, well-compacted base.

With an average lifespan of 30 years, concrete driveways last the longest of any material on the market. That’s why it’s the go-to choice for most contractors throughout the nation. Gravel driveways can also last up to 30 years but require much more maintenance—and regularly buying and adding more gravel—to make it that long.