Concrete driveways in Oxford County

What goes into a concrete driveway

• Excavation and base. The old surface comes out and the ground is dug down to make room for compacted granular base, usually Granular A. The base does more to stop cracking and sinking than the concrete does.
• Forms and reinforcement. Forms set the shape and slope, so water runs away from the garage and the house. Rebar or wire mesh helps hold cracked sections together.
• The pour. Air-entrained concrete, at least 4 inches thick and often thicker where trucks or trailers park. Air entrainment is what lets concrete survive Ontario's freeze-thaw cycles and road salt.
• Control joints. Cuts or tooled lines that tell the slab where to crack, so it cracks in a straight line instead of across the middle.
• Finish and cure. A broom finish for grip, or exposed aggregate or stamping for looks. Then it needs time to cure before you drive on it.

Concrete, asphalt or pavers?

Asphalt costs less up front but needs sealing and eventually resurfacing. Concrete costs more but lasts longer with less upkeep and stays cooler and brighter. Interlocking pavers look great and can be lifted and reset, but cost the most and need weeds kept out of the joints. Our finishes guide covers the concrete options.

Widening and aprons

Many Oxford County homes have a single-car driveway and a two-car family. Widening is common, but it usually means changing the curb cut, and that needs a permit from your municipality or, on a county road, from Oxford County. Ask the contractor to check before you plan the layout.

Salt and the first winter

New concrete is most vulnerable in its first year. Most contractors recommend no de-icing salt for the first winter, and a penetrating sealer to keep water and salt out after that. Read our guide to cracks, salt and repairs.