How long does it take to install a new concrete driveway?

Most residential driveway installations take two to three days from start to finish. Day one is typically excavation and base preparation. Day two is the concrete pour and finishing. Then you need to wait about seven days before you can walk on it and at least 28 days for it to reach full strength. Weather can affect the timeline, especially if we get rain during the curing period. We will give you a detailed schedule when we provide your estimate so you know exactly what to expect.

How much does a concrete driveway cost in San Bruno?

The cost depends on the size of your driveway, the thickness of concrete needed, and any decorative finishes you choose. A standard two-car driveway with a basic broom finish typically runs between $8 and $12 per square foot installed. Decorative options like stamping or coloring will add to that cost. We always provide free estimates so you know the exact price before we start. The investment is worth it because a quality concrete driveway adds significant value to your property and lasts 30 years or more with proper care.

What is better for a driveway: concrete or asphalt?

Concrete is the better choice for most homeowners in San Bruno. It lasts much longer than asphalt, requires less maintenance, and holds up better in our climate. Asphalt needs to be resealed every few years and typically needs replacement after 15 to 20 years. Concrete can last 30 to 50 years with minimal maintenance. Concrete also looks cleaner, does not soften in hot weather, and resists oil stains better than asphalt. While concrete costs more upfront, it saves you money over the life of your driveway because you will not need to replace it as often.

Concrete Driveways San Bruno, CA | SBC San Bruno Concrete

Why Your Driveway Matters More Than You Think

Your driveway is more than just a place to park your car. It is the first thing people see when they visit your home, and it plays a big role in your property's curb appeal and value. A cracked, stained, or uneven driveway can make your whole property look tired and neglected. On the other hand, a fresh concrete driveway gives your home an instant upgrade that you will notice every single day.

Here in San Bruno, driveways take a beating from our daily weather changes, heavy vehicles, and constant use. The soil conditions in the Bay Area can shift over time, which puts extra stress on your driveway surface. That is why choosing the right contractor and the right materials matters so much. We have been installing quality concrete driveways throughout San Bruno for years, and we know exactly what works in this climate.

What Makes a Great Concrete Driveway

Not all concrete driveways are created equal. The difference between a driveway that lasts 10 years and one that lasts 30 years comes down to preparation, materials, and installation technique. We start every project with proper ground preparation, which means excavating to the right depth and making sure the base is compacted correctly. This prevents settling and cracking down the road.

The concrete mix itself matters too. We use a high-quality mix with the right amount of cement, aggregate, and water to create a durable surface that can handle heavy loads. The thickness of your driveway depends on what you plan to park on it. Standard cars and light trucks do fine with 4 inches of concrete, but if you have an RV, boat, or heavy work vehicles, we will recommend going thicker.

Proper reinforcement is another key factor. We use steel rebar or wire mesh to give your concrete extra strength and prevent cracks from spreading if they do appear. Control joints are cut into the surface at regular intervals to control where cracks happen, keeping them neat and manageable instead of random and ugly.

Key Features of Our Driveway Installation

Complete site excavation and grading to ensure proper drainage
Compacted gravel base for long-term stability
High-strength concrete mix designed for Bay Area conditions
Steel reinforcement to prevent cracking and settling
Professional finishing for a smooth, attractive surface
Proper curing techniques to maximize strength and durability
Control joints placed strategically to manage natural expansion

The Installation Process: What to Expect

When you hire us for your driveway project, we walk you through every step so you know exactly what is happening. The first step is excavation. We remove your old driveway if you have one, or dig down to the proper depth for a new installation. This typically means removing 8 to 12 inches of soil to make room for the gravel base and concrete.

Next comes the base layer. We bring in crushed gravel or road base and spread it evenly across your excavated area. This layer gets compacted with heavy equipment to create a solid foundation that will not shift or settle. A good base is the secret to a driveway that lasts. We also make sure the base slopes slightly away from your garage and house to keep water flowing in the right direction.

Once the base is ready, we set up forms to contain the concrete and install reinforcement. Then comes the pour. We use a concrete truck to deliver fresh mix directly to your site, and our crew spreads it evenly throughout the formed area. After the concrete is placed, we use specialized tools to smooth and finish the surface. The finishing process determines how your driveway looks and how much traction it provides.

The final step is curing. Fresh concrete needs time and moisture to reach its full strength. We apply a curing compound to help the concrete retain moisture as it hardens. You will need to stay off your new driveway for at least a week, and you should avoid parking heavy vehicles on it for at least a month. We know that is an inconvenience, but it ensures your driveway will last for decades.

Choosing the Right Finish for Your Style

Your driveway does not have to be plain gray concrete. We offer several finish options to match your home's style and your personal taste. A broom finish is the most common and practical choice. It creates subtle lines in the surface that provide good traction, even when wet. This finish is affordable, durable, and works with any home style.

If you want something more decorative, consider stamped or decorative concrete. We can add color to your concrete mix and stamp patterns that look like brick, stone, or tile. This gives you the high-end look of pavers at a fraction of the cost and maintenance. Stamped concrete is especially popular in San Bruno neighborhoods where homeowners want their properties to stand out.

For a modern, polished look, we also offer smooth trowel finishes or exposed aggregate. Exposed aggregate shows off the stones in the concrete mix, creating a textured surface that is both beautiful and slip-resistant. Each finish option has its own benefits, and we are happy to show you samples and discuss which one works best for your needs and budget.

Maintenance Tips for Long-Lasting Driveways

A properly installed concrete driveway requires very little maintenance, but a few simple steps will keep it looking great for years. Seal your driveway every two to three years with a quality concrete sealer. This protects the surface from water, oil, and stains while making it easier to clean. Sealing also helps prevent freeze-thaw damage, which can be an issue during cold winter nights in the Bay Area.

Clean up oil and fluid spills as soon as you notice them. Oil can soak into concrete and leave permanent stains if you let it sit. A quick scrub with degreaser and water will usually do the trick. Avoid using harsh chemicals or de-icing salts on your driveway, as these can damage the surface over time.

Keep heavy loads distributed evenly, and try not to park in the exact same spot every single day. This prevents wear patterns and indentations. If you notice small cracks starting to form, address them quickly. Small cracks can be filled and sealed easily, but if you ignore them, they will grow into bigger problems that require expensive repairs. We also offer concrete repair services if your existing driveway needs attention.

Concrete Driveways