Having a well-maintained driveway plays a major role in making a first positive impression, improving your curb appeal, keeping your property safe and functional, and boosting your home’s value. With the constant exposure to the weight of vehicles, various elements, erosions, and oil leaks, however, the material of your driveway’s surface can easily degrade over time.
Signs of a Poorly Maintained Driveway
With all your various responsibilities, replacing or fixing your driveway should be the least of your worries. Nevertheless, it is the key to your safety and convenience, which is why your driveway should always be kept functional at all times.
Here are major signs that indicate it’s time to repair or replace your driveway:
● Cracks
● Stains
● Potholes
● Drainage issues
● Weathered appearance
Factors to Consider When Fixing or Replacing Your Driveway
If there are already warning signs of wear and tear on your driveway, you should consider resurfacing or even replacing your driveway right away. Here are four factors you need to consider when having your driveway repaired or replaced:
1. Cracking
Having visible cracks on your driveway means its surface should receive the attention it needs, and it must be fixed or replaced as soon as possible to avoid more costly repairs.
Keep in mind that cracks allow water to seep in, which may be a problem if you live in an area that is subjected to freezing temperatures. These may potentially cause damage by water freezing and thawing under the surface. Moreover, these can be a tripping hazard to you, your loved ones, and your guests that may even lead to unwanted injuries.
Small cracks that are less than a quarter-inch wide can easily be repaired by resealing or refinishing the entire surface. For larger cracks, however, replacing your driveway surface completely is recommended.
2. Existing Driveway Material
Some driveway surfaces are easier to repair than others, depending on the material of the driveway. In addition, know that not all driveway material ages well.
Because of this, it’s important to consider the materials that will need to be used for your driveway and choose an option that naturally disguises the wear and tear. Some materials will not age well, making them appear weathered and faded from regular exposure from sun and traffic. This will instead have a negative impact on the overall look of your home.
3. Drainage Issues
Having drainage issues on your driveway, such as rainwater pooling in areas or running down your driveway, can weaken the surface and make cracking or potholes even worse.
To solve these issues without replacing your entire driveway, you can install strip drains, add curbing, or replace drainage piping. A complete driveway replacement, however, is advisable for fixing damages and improving the drainage system.
4. Age
Driveway surfaces usually have a limited lifespan as they aren’t designed to hold up under extreme pressures for a long time. This is why if your asphalt driveway is 20 years old or your concrete driveway is 25 years old, then you should consider replacing them completely.
Conclusion
Your driveway is more than just a place for cars. With a well-kept driveway, your home will be even more visually enticing, secure, and functional, so keeping it well-maintained at all times is a worthy investment.
Whether you are planning to sell your home or just want to boost the curb appeal of your property, we can help revamp your driveway in Cornwall. We offer driveway, paving, and groundwork services at competitive rates. Contact us today to learn more about our services or to request a free consultation!