You're looking at putting in some new concrete around your place, maybe a driveway, a patio, or a walkway. Good call. Concrete's a solid investment when it's done right. But here's a question you might not have considered: are you going with standard concrete, or have you thought about pervious?
As a contractor who's been pouring concrete all over Westminster for years, I've seen both in action. Each has its place, and what's best for your neighbor down in Ranch Reserve might not be what's best for your place up by Standley Lake. Let's break down the real differences so you can make an informed choice.
Standard Concrete: The Tried and True Workhorse
When most folks think concrete, they're thinking standard concrete. It's that dense, solid stuff you see everywhere. It's made with a mix of cement, water, and aggregates like sand and gravel, all packed tight. We pour it, smooth it out, and let it cure. Simple as that, right?
Durability & Strength
This is where standard concrete shines. It's incredibly strong and durable. When properly installed and cured, it can handle heavy loads – think multiple cars on a driveway – and stand up to our Colorado freeze-thaw cycles pretty well. We've got pretty active soils here in Westminster, especially that expansive clay in some areas, and standard concrete, with proper sub-base preparation and reinforcement, can manage that movement better than many other surfaces.
Appearance
You can get standard concrete in a lot of finishes. Plain gray is common, but we can broom finish it for texture, add integral colors, or even do some decorative stamping (though that's a whole other topic). It's versatile, and you can make it look pretty sharp to match your home's aesthetic.
Maintenance
Generally, standard concrete is low maintenance. Keep it clean, seal it every few years to protect it from stains and moisture, and you're good. If you get cracks, which can happen over time no matter how well it's done, they can sometimes be repaired, but larger issues might need replacement sections.
Cost
Generally, standard concrete is the more budget-friendly option upfront. The materials are common, and the installation process is well-established. It's what most crews, including us at Horizon Concrete Solutions, are set up to do efficiently.
Pervious Concrete: The Eco-Friendly Innovator
Now, pervious concrete is a different animal. It looks a bit like a sponge, honestly. It's got a special mix with very little fine aggregate (sand), which creates a network of interconnected voids. This allows water to literally pass right through it, infiltrating into the ground below.
Durability & Strength
Don't let the