At Kent Home Services, we believe that every project is important when it comes to helping our clients build something that lasts.
Today, I would like to share a story that demonstrates how our team consistently delivers quality and reliability, even in tough Michigan weather conditions. This is the story of how we completed a concrete driveway replacement and expansion at a single-family home that has performed perfectly over time.
Fixing Up an Eyesore
Steve and Marla purchased a new to them home in Grandville, Michigan in 2020 to start their retirement. They are active and enjoy hosting game nights with friends and camping in their RV. Like many of our clients, they are on a fixed income and make very careful choices when they decide to spend their savings.
Every part of their new home was perfect, except the driveway. It was an eyesore and a trip and fall hazard safety concern for their guests. Improper installation originally left it cracked, heaved, and dangerous just a few years after installation. Plus, it didn’t have enough room to store their RV.
That’s when a friend referred him to us at Kent Home Services. After checking our Google reviews and learning more about what we do, Steve reached out for a quote on his most expensive remodel project yet: a brand-new 1,400-square-foot concrete driveway.
Step One: Setting Clear Expectations
As soon as they contacted us, I drove out to meet them in person. During our first conversation, we discussed every detail of the project. It was important that they understand that the long-term performance of their driveway is directly tied to intentional planning, proper preparation, and selection of high-quality materials. At the appointment I completed a complete site analysis including assessing current cracking and settling patterns, checking soil conditions and drainage patterns, and identifying load points such as garage approach and turning areas.
Within 24 hours, Steve and Marla had a complete written estimate that included drawings, specifications, and annotated pictures showing key changes in the design. Having all this information upfront gave Steve and Marla peace of mind and confidence. They accepted the proposal almost immediately, and we scheduled the work to start the next week.
Step Two: Removing Concrete and Adding New Base
The following Monday, we dispatched a dedicated crew to start the project. The team’s objective was to complete the concrete driveway installation efficiently without compromising quality.
The first day our team:
- Removed the existing concrete and underlying base. The original base showed signs of contamination and inconsistent compaction—common contributors to premature cracking
- Installed new base designed to support the concrete and manage drainage. Crushed aggregate base was used in heavy load areas and fine sand was used at edges and transitions.
- Mechanically compacted the base so it had uniform density and no soft spots
Every step was carefully planned and executed to ensure less stress on the concrete during Michigan’s tough freeze-thaw winter cycles.
Step Three: Setting and Pouring Concrete
The following day the Kent Home Services crew set the shape of the driveway with forms and added additional reinforcements. 10ga wire mesh sheets were added to the entire driveway to control surface cracking. #4 rebar was installed in high stress and load bearing zones. Dowels were inserted at joints and transitions to prevent vertical movement.
Once everything was set, the team installed the concrete, added a broom finish for traction, and cut control joints to manage cracking. Kent Home Services only uses top shelf concrete. For this project we selected a 6-sack mix with a higher cement ratio and then added fiber mesh for additional strength and integral sealer to protect against moisture issues.
Once the pour was complete, our superintendent conducted a quality walk-through with Steve and Marla to make sure the project met all of our quality parameters and their design objectives.
The Results: The Envy of The Neighborhood
In just a few days, Steve and Marla’s driveway was transformed. It was so good that neighbors took notice and Kent Home Services completed five additional projects in the neighborhood over the next year. Five years later, we stopped by to check on driveway and found it in near perfect condition. There was no random or structural cracking, no settlement, and the surface remained intact and stain-free.
This project was a great example of how careful selection of a concrete contractor and the right concrete installation process and materials for a concrete driveway installation can have long lasting results while on a budget.
FAQs About Concrete Driveway Installation
Q: How long does it take to complete a concrete driveway installation?
Most projects take two to three days, though larger or more complex installations may require more time.
Q: How thick does a driveway need to be for my camping trailer or RV?
Most concrete driveways are poured at 4 inches. Often, we reinforce the concrete with rebar and increase the depth to 5 or 6 inches in locations where you would regularly park a heavier vehicle.
Q: How soon can I use my new driveway?
Light foot traffic is usually fine after 24 to 48 hours. Wait at least 7 to 10 days before parking vehicles on the surface.
Q: How long will a professionally installed driveway last?
A properly installed concrete driveway can last over 30 years with regular maintenance and care.
Start Your Own Concrete Driveway Installation Project
If you’re planning a new driveway or any other concrete project, we’re here to help. Contact us today for a free estimate, and let’s build something that will serve you for decades to come.