Get matched with top concrete driveway pros in Cushing, ME

Sidewalks are concrete, not cement. Cement is merely an ingredient of concrete. To pour a sidewalk, driveway, or patio, you need to form the right mixture of concrete using cement, aggregates, and water. Pouring concrete requires special tools such as a concrete mixer, compactor, screeds, and floats. Unless you're pouring a small area, it's best to hire a concrete pro for a sidewalk or driveway project.

Yes, you should seal your exposed aggregate concrete to keep it protected from the elements and reduce the risk of cracking and concrete spalling. You’ll need to invest in the cost of resealing your concrete about every three years to keep it in good condition. Unsealed exposed aggregate concrete is susceptible to water damage, stains, chips, cracks, and abrasion. Sealers are available in various finishes and levels of gloss. Outdoor exposed aggregate concrete should be sealed with a non-yellowing, UV-resistant sealer to preserve the look of the finish.

There are a variety of hooks available you can use to hang your Christmas lights on concrete without drilling unsightly holes. Attaching hooks on gutters or using construction adhesive in a caulk gun are two options that work very well for getting hooks to stay up all season.

Like all building materials, concrete weakens with age due to temperature changes, moisture, and cracks that widen over time. Keep in mind that there are ways to keep your concrete strong by resealing it every two to three years, avoiding harsh cleaning chemicals, and addressing small cracks as quickly as possible.