Replacing a concrete driveway

[Scottyw]

We're thinking about replacing our old cracked concrete driveway. It would be about 10m long with a standard width. What are our options and how much should we be budgeting for? It seems most people in the area go for exposed aggregate. Thanks in advance for any advice and tips. 

[MartyH]

Probably more than you expect! You will be looking at least $100 per square metre for an exposed aggregate driveway. Similar price for decorate stencilled concrete. You can obviously save money by just going with plain concrete - about $60 per square metre. Coloured would cost a bit more.  

[darylhewston]

@Scottyw

Have you thought about liquid limestone?  Something different

Cheers

Daryl

[Scottyw]

I hadn't heard of liquid limestone before Daryl. Looking at this gallery http://www.lunarstone.com.au/gallery/ it looks like there's plenty of different options. Have you seen it used? Any advantages over other solutions?

[darylhewston]

@Scottyw

Hi Scotty,  

Yes, I have seen it used in a variety of positions ie, around pools, under patios and also used for driveways.  I really like the look of the natural colour and until now I didn't know you could get it tinted.

The gallery in your link is mainly exposed aggregate, so have a look at this link from the same page.

http://www.lunarstone.com.au/liquid-limestone/

Also, here is a link for some FAQ's

http://www.liquidlimestone.com.au/faq-s

Sealing is essential, as well as mesh for heavy traffic areas.

The major advantage is it is cheaper than concrete and in my opinion, looks a lot nicer.

Cheers

Daryl

[BIM_Engineer]

@Scottyw
Heres are some other relevant Q&A on Liquid limestone Driveways.
That you don't find on sales websites
Q. Does it have a lower strength (MPa) than concrete?
A. Yes
Can I clean the limestone driveway of oil stains with a pressure cleaner?
A. No. unless you want to gouge holes in your driveway

Q Does it discolour over time?

A. Yes limestone requires constant resealing
When selecting materials please consider the application,Strength, durability, & mechanical material properties etc
always ask for warranties.
Limestone driveways aren't that popular anymore because of the above

BTW

Concrete Costs $20/m2 Delivered

Mesh $9/m2

Labour Allow 2 People 2-3 hours 

hth