If authenticity is important to you, then the type of walkway material you choose for your historic brick home matters. You want your walkway to match your home’s architectural structure without sticking out like a sore thumb. You may want to restore the path leading to the house and wonder what the original owners would have chosen.
If you choose something more modern, like concrete, would it spoil your home’s look? Here are four things to consider about choosing concrete for your walkway.
1. Concrete: More Historic Than You Think
Concrete has been used for walkways in the United States since the early 1860s. If your house pre-dates the mid-19th century, concrete may not be a historically accurate choice. But if your home was built in the latter part of the 19th century or since then, the original walkways may very well have been concrete. Your historic preservation concerns can be satisfied.
2. Customizable Design
Concrete can be tinted and stamped to match the style and color of your historic brick home. You can make your concrete walkway replicate the look of brick or any other walkway material. Installing actual brick and stone can be more expensive. Concrete can give you the same aesthetic appeal at a more affordable price. Because concrete is customizable, your walkway can bring more value to your old brick home by increasing its curb appeal for potential future buyers.
3. Durability
Concrete is able to withstand temperature changes without shrinking or expanding. This makes it an ideal choice for those living in warmer temperatures. Concrete can also withstand freezing temperatures without cracking, with proper preventive care.
A concrete walkway can last decades with little maintenance; annual joint inspection and a power-wash every few years will do the trick. Concrete is also able to handle heavy vehicles weighing down on it without breaking. The durability of concrete to withstand natural disasters, erosion and weathering makes it a solid investment for your historic brick home.
4. Eco-Friendly
A concrete walkway can reduce heating and cooling costs for your historic brick home with its light-reflecting properties. Concrete can be made from materials in landfills to reduce your carbon footprint. Used concrete can be recycled and reused. If you're concerned about your impact on the environment, a concrete walkway could be a great option.
Are Concrete Walkways Right for You?
Installing a concrete walkway won’t spoil the look of your historic brick home. With its incredible versatility, you can use concrete to achieve whatever you look you want to achieve. However, you want to make sure you have it installed by experienced professionals.
At Renaissance Development, we are a leader in the historic preservation of old homes and can help you build your brick home’s perfect walkway. Get in touch with us today to find out more about our services.
