Weeds in concrete are pesky. Here’s how to prevent them.

If you’ve noticed weeds pushing through your concrete driveway, you’re not alone. Weeds can be persistent, especially when tinycracks and gaps in your concrete give them an opportunity to sprout. While these pesky plants may seem harmless at first, over time they can lead to structural damage and make your driveway look unkempt. So, how can you stop weeds from growing in a concrete driveway?

Here’s a breakdown of the best solutions—both preventative and corrective—that can help you win the battle against weeds once and for all.

Use Weed-Proof Mesh Underneath the Concrete

If you’re preparing to pour a new concrete driveway, the most effective way to stop weeds from growing is to prevent them from taking root in the first place. Laying a weed-proof mesh beneath the gravel base of your driveway acts as a physical barrier between the soil and the surface. This stops weeds from getting the nutrients they need to grow.

While this method is highly effective, it’s best applied during the initial construction phase. Over time, even high-quality mesh can degrade, which is why combining this with other methods will help maintain a weed-free surface in the long term.

Chemical Weed Killers

If you’re looking for a quick and effective fix, commercial chemical pesticides like glyphosate can stop weeds from growing and kill existing ones. These herbicides are potent and specifically designed to target plant life without affecting the concrete.

However, always follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully and take precautions to avoid skin contact or accidental ingestion. Keep in mind that commercial weed killers can be costly and may require reapplication over time.

Make a DIY Weed Killer with Vinegar, Salt, and Dish Soap

Want to stop weeds from growing using household items? You can make a simple, effective weed killer using common kitchen ingredients. Mix one gallon of white vinegar with two cups of table salt and stir until the salt dissolves. Add a teaspoon of dish soap to help the mixture stick to the leaves of the weeds.

This DIY solution is not only budget-friendly but also penetrates deep into cracks, making it easier to treat hard-to-reach roots. Just be sure to apply it on a dry, sunny day for the best effect.

Apply Rubber Mulch in Wide Cracks

If your driveway has wide cracks, rubber mulch can be an effective solution to stop weeds from growing. Made from recycled rubber materials, this mulch is toxic to plants and creates an inhospitable environment for weeds.

You only need to insert the rubber mulch at the top of the crack—it doesn’t have to reach the soil to work. While it’s not ideal for all driveways, it’s a low-maintenance fix that works well for larger gaps.

Seal Cracks with Concrete Crack Filler

The most reliable way to stop weeds from growing is byeliminating their access point altogether. Filling the cracks in your driveway with a high-quality concrete crack filler seals off gaps where weeds can sprout. Not only does this help prevent future weed growth, but it also improves the overall appearance and durability of your driveway.

For homeowners interested in taking on this project themselves, be sure to choose the right product and follow application instructions closely. It might take a bit more effort, but it delivers long-lasting results.

Don’t Let Weeds Take Over Your Driveway

Concrete is tough, but weeds are persistent. Whether you’repouring a new slab or dealing with cracks in an older one, it’s essential to take action to stop weeds from growing before they cause damage.

At Tri-State Paving, we understand that even the smallest cracks can lead to big problems over time. Contact us today to learn more about maintaining a clean, weed-free concrete surface that lasts for years.

Receive Asphalt Paving Services with Tri-State Paving

Call Tri-State Paving. We’re a seasoned asphalt pavement company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge to help you with asphalt, concrete, and hardscaping projects.

We refuse to sell hot air to our customers, and that’s why we have been around for over 4 decades. We listen, inform, educate then decide what is best for our customers project and budget. If any problems arise during construction we keep our customers updated and respond to make the imperfect perfect.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt, or hardscaping work.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

The post How to Stop Weeds from Growing in a Concrete Driveway appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.

Which is better for you: concrete driveway repairs or replacement?

Are you looking to redo your concrete driveway? The cost of a new driveway can be costly, but did you know that repairs are possible? The question is, should you repair or replace a concrete driveway? One option might be better for your wallet and driveway needs than another. Let’s take a look. If you have any questions, Tri-State Paving is happy to help!

When to Repair a Concrete Driveway

It’s a good idea to repair a concrete driveway rather than replace it if it meets these following conditions:

• The base structure is in good condition
• Only a small part of the driveway is in bad shape
• You want to maintain the driveway but save up for the cost of a new one

Concrete driveway repairs are possible. You can choose to do it yourself or work with a professional like Tri-State Paving. However, repairs are especially worth it if the damage is not affecting the concrete driveway’s structural integrity and is not affecting the entire driveway. Even so, if the damage is widespread on a surface level only, then concrete driveway resurfacing could be a great solution for you.

How to Repair a Concrete Driveway

So, how do yourepair a concrete driveway? A concrete driveway can suffer from uneven concrete slabs and broken up chunks and pieces. To repair uneven concrete slabs, you can hire a professional to even it out from the base or the surface. To repair broken concrete with missing and loose pieces, you can use a concrete patching compound. Keep in mind that this solution will not last as long as the driveway itself, however, and that eventually it will break down again. It is still a great option if you are looking for a temporary fix while waiting to replace a concrete driveway.

When to Replace a Concrete Driveway

It’s a good idea toreplace a concrete driveway entirely if:

• The concrete driveway has extensive damage
• Repairs cannot fix underlying issues
• You want to change the driveway design

Check out how to care for your concrete driveway in winterhere!

Receive Asphalt Paving Services with Tri-State Paving

Call Tri-State Paving. We’re a seasoned asphalt pavement company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge to help you with asphalt, concrete, and hardscaping projects.

We refuse to sell hot air to our customers and that’s why we have been around for over 4 decades. We listen, inform, educate then decide what is best for our customers project and budget. If any problems arise during construction we keep our customers updated and respond to make the imperfect perfect.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt, or hardscaping work.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

The post Should I Repair or Replace a Concrete Driveway? appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.

Tri-State Paving offers concrete driveway repairs at all levels!

Concrete driveways are versatile. You can have a smooth, poured concrete driveway, a stamped concrete driveway, or a concrete paver driveway. They are all quite popular choices throughout Maryland, Pennsylvania, and Delaware. However, over time, they will need maintenance and repairs. At Tri-State Paving, you can find concrete driveway repairs that suit your needs.

Addressing Concrete Driveway Problems

Concrete Driveway Repairs

Over time, concrete driveways can form cracks due to exposure to the elements, moisture damage, and the continual weight of vehicles and foot traffic. Concrete might last for decades, but it won’t last forever.

If small cracks form on the pavement that are no wider than a quarter of an inch, then it is generally safe to say that you can repair it by filling the cracks. If concrete is crumbling, there are ways to patch it as well. Minor cracks and damaged spots are easy to repair.

Concrete Driveway Resurfacing

If the damage is widespread across your driveway, then it won’t be worth going over the whole thing with a concrete crack filling and patching kit. It might be better to remove the top layer and replace it with a new one. It’s best to get professional help for this job. Concrete resurfacing is a good middle-ground concrete repair when the foundation is sound but the driveway surface is not.

Concrete Driveway Replacement

Concrete driveways will eventually need replacing, no matter how well you take care of it over the years. If your driveway is over fifty years old, it might be time to get a new one. With manystylistic choices available at a great cost, anew concrete driveway is something to look forward to.

Concrete Maintenance Is Necessary!

Concrete maintenance is a critical part of lengthening its lifespan. The best way to maintain it is topower wash it every year, seal it every few years, and repair it as soon as damage occurs.

Receive Asphalt Paving Services with Tri-State Paving

Call Tri-State Paving. We’re a seasoned asphalt pavement company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge to help you with asphalt, concrete, and hardscaping projects.

We refuse to sell hot air to our customers and that’s why we have been around for over 4 decades. We listen, inform, educate then decide what is best for our customers project and budget. If any problems arise during construction we keep our customers updated and respond to make the imperfect perfect.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt, or hardscaping work.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

The post Concrete Driveway Repairs & More appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.

If concrete is right for your driveway, here’s the best time to pave!

A concrete driveway can be anexcellent choice for your Maryland, Delaware, or Pennsylvania home. Its sturdy composition will last for decades and its flexibility gives youcountless decorative options. If you areconsidering getting one, here’s what to know about the best time to install a concrete driveway.

What’s the Best Season to Install a Concrete Driveway?

Technically, there are two great seasons to install a concrete driveway in the Mid-Atlantic: spring and fall. In general, the temperature should be between 50 and 60 degrees Fahrenheit, although installation work can be successful in temperatures above or below this range. Even so, there are reasons why it’s best to aim to pursue your concrete driveway installation project in the spring, fall, a warm winter’s day, or a cool summer evening.

Why Installing Concrete at the Right Time Matters

When It’s Too Hot

Concrete is a mixture of gravel aggregates and cement (a mixture of finely-ground and heated sand, ash, etc., and water) that must harden and cure at an appropriate time rate. A chemical reaction happens between the concrete particles and water as the water evaporates and the mixture hardens that gives it its renowned strength.

If the weather is too hot, the concrete will harden and cure too quickly, which could result in structural problems. To remediate this issue, one could spray the cement with water periodically to ensure a successful curing process.

When It’s Too Cold

When the weather is too cold, it takes longer for water to evaporate and therefore longer for the concrete to cure. Technically, curing happens over the course of a few years, but the first few days are the most crucial. If the weather fluctuates above and below freezing, the cement could freeze and thaw repeatedly as well, causing it to crack and crumble.

The way to keep this disaster from happening is to pre-warm the installation site and insulate the concrete as it is curing.

When It Rains

Rain, snow, and other such weather events will disrupt and potentially ruin the curing process.

Let a Local Concrete Driveway Contractor Take Care of It

With a local concrete driveway contractor like us, you can rest assured that the weather won’t rain on your project’s success!

Receive Asphalt Paving Services with Tri-State Paving

Call Tri-State Paving. We’re a seasoned asphalt pavement company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge to help you with asphalt, concrete, and hardscaping projects.

We refuse to sell hot air to our customers and that’s why we have been around for over 4 decades. We listen, inform, educate then decide what is best for our customers project and budget. If any problems arise during construction we keep our customers updated and respond to make the imperfect perfect.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt, or hardscaping work.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Pinterest.

The post Best Time to Install a Concrete Driveway appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.

With the amount of options concrete driveways provide, it’s easy to see why it adds so much curb appeal.

With low maintenance and a long life span, concrete driveways are increasing popularity.

Concrete driveways are becoming more and more common for new home construction projects, but homeowners with an older property are also taking advantage of concrete’s many benefits. Let’s take a look at some of the ins and outs of concrete driveways.

Concrete Driveways Increase Curb Appeal

With the amount of options concrete driveways provide, it’s easy to see why it adds so much curb appeal. You see, concrete driveways use to be boring colors and offer dull finishes. Now, concrete driveways can be dyed any color that you can imagine. You can match your driveway to the exterior of your home, and concrete can be textured and polished to offer even more design options and flexibility.

Easy Maintenance

Compared to some other options, concrete driveways are fairly easy to maintain. Stains are often easily removed by just using hot water and soap. You may need more in-depth cleaning depending on the types of finishes you opt for, but this is still a relatively easy type of driveway to care for and maintain.

The Strength of Concrete Driveways

In terms of material, concrete is one of the best money can buy. Concrete driveways are incredibly dense and built to handle the weight of small cars to SUVs. Most bridges, parking lots and roadways are built with concrete because of its durability and long life, so it makes perfect sense to have this type of material for your driveway. Whether you elect to have a concrete driveway because of its flexibility in design, easy maintenance or durability, you will have access to a multitude of benefits at an affordable price.

So, are you ready to call on the help of a professional paving company?

Call Tristate Paving. We’re a seasoned hardscaping company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge help you turn your backyard into the perfect retreat quickly and affordably. Our experts will work with you to find a design and layout for outdoor kitchen and dining area that you’re sure to love for years and years to come.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+!

The post The Benefits of Concrete Driveways appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.

Have you got cracks in your concrete or asphalt?

The last thing you want to see going into the cooler months of the year is a crack in your driveway. Don’t think you can ignore it until next spring – wet weather and fluctuating temperatures will turn even the smallest crack into a major nightmare! So, how do you prevent cracks in your driveway? Read on to find out!

Before Your Driveway is Poured

Concrete and asphalt crack as the result of stresses put on your driveway. One of the best ways to minimize the damage of cracking is to create joints before the concrete is poured. A joint is kind of like a controlled crack – the different concrete slabs will be able to move and adjust to the stress without breaking. The more joints a concrete driveway, the less chance there is of having cracks throughout the concrete.

After Your Driveway Has Been Poured

Don’t use salt during the winter! If you are having ice problems on your driveway, use sand instead of salt. Salt encourages the freeze and thaw cycles that can cause major problems with pitting and cracking of concrete and asphalt.

Sealant is Key!

If you already have a crack in your concrete or asphalt drive way, sealant can help seal them before they become more of a nuisance. Concrete sealant i s available at your local hardware store, and can be used to fill in small cracks like a caulk. Asphalt sealant is a more expensive process and will require contacting a professional, but it can help to delay the need to fully replace a cracked driveway.

Remember, sealant is only a temporary repair. You will still need to replace your driveway in order to prevent the cracks from causing serious damage to your car or home. When you’re ready to replace your driveway, call a professional paving company to do the job right.

So, are you ready to call on the help of a professional paving company?

Call Tristate Paving. We’re a seasoned hardscaping company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge help you turn your backyard into the perfect retreat quickly and affordably. Our experts will work with you to find a design and layout for outdoor kitchen and dining area that you’re sure to love for years and years to come.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+!

The post How To Keep Your Delaware Driveway from Cracking appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.

. Stamped concrete is a budget-friendly way to add a decorative touch to a landscape, instead just a plain concrete slab.

Concrete is durable and cost-effect material for driveways, patios, and walkways. But did you also know that it could be aesthetically pleasing? Stamped concrete is growing in popularity as design choice for hardscaping. The process mimics high-end materials such as brick and stone pavers while being just a fraction of the cost. Take a moment to read about the advantages of stamped concrete for your next project!

Many Choices and Aesthetics

Stamped concrete comes in a variety of colors, patterns and textures. The stamping process can mimic almost any type of surface – marble, lumber, pavers, etc. Stamped concrete is a budget-friendly way to add a decorative touch to a landscape, instead just a plain concrete slab.

Easy Installation

Stamped concrete is one of the least labor-intensive options for paving. Instead of hauling and laying each paving stone individually, stamped concrete is mixed, poured, and stamped all in one go. Each stamping pattern has its own individual stamp and method – some use large rollers, while other use large rubber platforms with carved designs. The time saved with stamping will also save you money – the less time spent in your yard, the less you owe your laborers!

Low Maintenance

Unlike pavers, concrete never needs to be reset or replaced. Maintenance is simple – make sure to clear off excess debris such as leaves or trash, and spray your stamped concrete down with a pressure washer. Concrete also lasts longer than other materials, is durable in nearly every type of environment, and holds up better to traffic and wear than pavers and most natural stones.

So, are you ready to call on the help of a professional paving company?

Call Tristate Paving. We’re a seasoned hardscaping company based in Maryland and have the experience and knowledge help you turn your backyard into the perfect retreat quickly and affordably. Our experts will work with you to find a design and layout for outdoor kitchen and dining area that you’re sure to love for years and years to come.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.

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The post Stamped Concrete Stamps Out the Competition appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.

Curb Appeal

Curb appeal can account for up to 10 percent of your homes value.  As the bridge between your private property and the public street your driveway makes a significant impact on the overall curb appeal. The ability to customize a concrete driveway to match your home and landscaping gives it a distinct advantage over a traditional asphalt driveway. Decorative concrete made using stamps and stains can give you a durable surface with the texture and color of flagstone, cobbles, or brick for the faction of the price.  Furthermore, the same style decorative concrete can be used for your walkway, steps, and porch providing a unifying effect; or you can use a different texture and color for each surface to provide contrast and definition.

Maintenance and Longevity

Maintaining concrete is simple and inexpensive, and by taking just a few measures you can ensure a good looking and durable surface for up to thirty years. Concrete may be sealed to reduce the prevalence of stains from oil or gasoline spills, but sealing is not necessary. If oil or gas is spilled immediate treatment with a degreaser should keep the concrete nice and clean.  Concrete should not be treated with deicing chemicals, or salt. By following these guidelines you can keep your concrete driveway looking clean and in good repair for up to thirty years.

Environmentally Friendly

An added bonus of having a concrete driveway is that they’re more environmentally friendly then a regular asphalt driveway.  Concrete is made from sand, stone, and is held together by cement.  Asphalt is made of sand and stone, but is held together by tar instead of cement. Not only is tar nonrenewable petroleum based product, but when oil or gas are spilled on it some is picked up and added to the chemical run off.  Additionally, the dark color of asphalt absorbs more light, causing it to heat up.  The lighter color of concrete reflects the light instead, reducing warming. Finally, because the concrete requires less maintenance it means that there’s less harmful chemical run when compared to asphalt.

Want a Concrete Instillation Quote?

Call Tri-state Paving. Our experienced paving professionals have plenty of experience with concrete driveway installation quickly, and at an affordable price. At Tristate Paving we take great pride in our customer service and we’ll be more than happy to sit down and figure out what concrete driveway instillation options works best for you.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.

The post Reasons to Consider a Concrete Driveway appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.

When to Repair

Between water damage caused by freezing and thawing over the seasons, and the sheer work of supporting heavy cars that roll over them daily, driveways take a lot of abuse. If you spot cracks that have a width of less than ¼ in, you probably only have surface level damage and this can easily be fixed with a liquid crack-filler. However, wider cracks will require taking measures that are more substantial. While you can temporarily cover up these cracks with patching material, this is only a stop-gap fix that will soon wear out.

When to Replace

If your driveway is more than 20 years old, it’s most likely best to have it replaced. After this much time under elemental exposure, even the best driveways can break down. Patching these antiques is won’t be worth the trouble or cost. Your driveway may not even have a structural problem to necessitate replacement. Oftentimes, new homeowners or those looking to sell the house will replace for the visual appeal. Patching isn’t invisible and can sometimes look unsightly.

When to Resurface

If you know repairing won’t be enough, but replacement is too expensive, there is an “in-between” option that’s typically only offered by top quality asphalt repair companies like Tristate Paving. It’s called resurfacing. Resurfacing essentially strips off your driveway’s top layer and replaces it, resulting in a driveway that appears brand-spanking-new, but costs much less than a total replacement. While this won’t fix issues with the foundation, you won’t be seeing any cracks or potholes for awhile either.

Need Driveway Repair, Replacement, or Resurfacing?

Call Tristate Paving. Our experienced paving professionals have plenty of experience with driveway repair, resurfacing, and replacement, and can take care of your asphalt installation or repair needs quickly, and at an affordable price. At Tristate Paving we take great pride in our customer service and we’ll be more than happy to sit down and figure out what asphalt repair option works best for you.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+

The post Do I Need to Replace, Repair, or Resurface My Driveway? appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.

Appearance

Different people will have a preference as to whether they’d like concrete or asphalt better. Asphalt driveways appear as natural extensions of the road while concrete ones have a distinctly different appearance. However, both can have their looks modified.  You can stain, etch, and engrave concrete as well as apply a variety of finishes to customize your driveway to match your home. Asphalt is somewhat more limited and cannot be stained. Although, tint may be added to the mixture to alter the color slightly.

Climate

Climate can play an important part in selecting what to pave your driveway with. Concrete is more likely to crack or fracture due to extreme cold. It can also be damaged by defrosting salts. Conversely, asphalt performs less well in hotter climates because intense and prolonged exposure to heat can cause the tar to melt and potentially lose its form. Consider your climate carefully when paving your driveway.

Maintenance

Both materials have drastically different maintenance requirements. Asphalt requires the application of a protective sealant about every three years, which can increase its lifespan to roughly 30 years. Concrete driveways do not need sealant but can benefit from it greatly, preserving their appearance for longer. Concrete driveways do stain easier than asphalt and must have degreaser applied to them to take care of oil spills. Asphalt is typically easier to repair and can be affordably resurfaced rather than replaced, an option that is not available to concrete driveway owners.

Price

Asphalt is typically a good deal less expensive than concrete to install. On average asphalt will run between $2.50 to $4.00 per square foot. Concrete, on the other hand, usually runs between $4.00 to $6.00 per square foot for a basic installation and can cost more if you’re looking at applying special finishes.

Need Help Making the Decision?

Call Tristate Paving. Our experienced paving professional have a  long history installing both concrete and asphalt driveways and we’ll be more than happy to sit down and figure out which option works best for you.

Our area numbers are:

West Chester: 610.563.9456

Oxford: 610.932.3566

Delaware: 302.757.4100

Check back here for weekly updates on current projects, important paving facts and info, and smart ideas for homeowners interested in concrete, asphalt or hardscaping work.

Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, and Google+

The post Asphalt vs. Concrete Driveways appeared first on Tristate Paving Company.