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There are many options when it comes to driveway materials, including concrete, asphalt, gravel, and pavers. The best type of driveway material depends on your personal preference, location, and budget. Concrete is one of the most durable driveway materials, making it a popular option for homes across the country. However, it does cost more than asphalt upfront. Still, asphalt repair costs can quickly add up, making it a less economical option in the long run. 

Yes, concrete is significantly stronger than masonry, especially if the concrete pour includes reinforcements, like steel rebar. Concrete is a uniform material that can withstand compression, sheer force, and tensile force as long as it’s reinforced. Masonry involves the use of mortar or grout to connect individual building materials, like brick, stone, or tile. Mortar and grout are also reasonably strong and resist compression well, but they don’t come close to the strength of poured concrete.

Lally columns do require some kind of footing to ensure they have a strong enough base to provide the support they need to deliver, and, at the very least, they need to attach to the floor below. Some contractors will just use the existing foundation as a footing for temporary Lally columns, while some circumstances demand that the expert install a new footing. You might need a local structural engineer to weigh in on which is best for your project.

With proper maintenance, exterior concrete steps can last 25 to 50 years or more. In most cases, your steps will require some minor repairs over that time frame, including sealing surface cracks and resurfacing to keep them in good condition. Interior concrete steps should last even longer, normally between 50 and 75 years, as they don’t have to stand up to the elements.