Concept preview — this is not yet the official website of Hernandez Concrete Design, Inc.
Wide poured concrete driveway leading to a modern home's two-car garage

Concrete Driveways

Concrete driveways, replaced and built new

A driveway carries the heaviest loads on a residential property and takes the worst of Colorado winters — plows, deicer tracked in on tires, and repeated freeze-thaw.

Illustrative photo: Salvo Media LLC / Unsplash

Replacement vs. repair

Isolated cracks and a single sunken section can sometimes be repaired. When cracking is widespread, sections have heaved or settled, or the surface is scaling across a large area, full removal and replacement is usually the better long-term value. See concrete repair & replacement.

Built for vehicle loads

Driveway slabs are placed thicker than walkways and patios, over a compacted base, with control joints laid out for the driveway's shape. Where the driveway meets the street, the approach and curb cut are often in the public right-of-way, which typically requires a city permit — requirements are confirmed before work starts.

Winter tip: avoid rock salt and other deicers on new concrete during its first winter. Sand provides traction without attacking a young surface.

Common questions

How soon can I drive on a new concrete driveway?

Passenger vehicles are generally kept off for about seven days, and heavier vehicles longer. Concrete reaches its design strength at roughly 28 days.

Do I need a permit to replace my driveway?

Work on the driveway approach, curb cut or sidewalk in the public right-of-way typically requires a permit from the city. Requirements vary between Denver, Lakewood and other metro cities, so they're confirmed for each address.

Can a driveway be colored or stamped?

Yes. Colored and stamped driveways are common, and borders are a popular way to add detail without stamping the entire surface.

Planning a concrete project across the Denver metro?

Call to talk through the job and arrange a site visit and estimate.

Call (720) 771-8853
Call (720) 771-8853