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A concrete pathway is very durable and can last upward of 30 years under normal conditions. Heavy snowfall and excessive heat may decrease this lifespan over time, as can vehicle traffic and salt applications during freezing conditions. Homeowners in extreme climates might notice cracking and deterioration after just 15 years, while those in more temperate climates should see multiple decades of life from their concrete.

Whether you make concrete countertops yourself or hire a pro, they’re not the most budget-friendly surface options, and because they’re porous, they require regular resealing. Another con of concrete countertops is that they’re heavy, meaning additional reinforcing support is sometimes necessary to protect your cabinets and possibly even your floors.

You can technically install a chain link fence without any concrete. However, your fence will be less stable and more likely to shift or lean over time. 

Instead, try setting the terminal, gate, and corner posts with concrete and filling the line post holes with dirt. You’ll build a stable foundation without spending all afternoon mixing concrete.

Placing either a layer of mixed-size gravel or a paver base under your crushed concrete driveway is a good idea. The smaller pieces will compress and prevent the larger pieces of concrete from driving into the soil below, helping to avoid sinking over time under the weight of vehicles. For added protection from sinking and weeks, you can also install a heavy-duty weed liner beneath the gravel or paver base. Just be sure to use a permeable material to avoid drainage problems.