Depending on the extent of damage, repair or replacement may be the best option. If your driveway has deep cracks, alligator cracking, or other severe issues, a replacement is often the most cost-effective and long-term solution.
Typical repairs include cleaning, filling with cold-patch asphalt, and applying sealants to protect from environmental stresses. Professionals ensure a durable repair with thorough analysis and skilled execution. Click Here to learn more.
A driveway is more than just a path to the garage or an area for parking cars; it’s a significant component of your property’s value and curb appeal. Consequently, it’s important to identify issues with your driveway and consider the best course of action to repair it.
The most common signs of driveway damage include cracks and potholes. These are typically caused by shifting soil, freezing and thawing cycles, or the weight of vehicles. Leaving these issues unattended can cause further damage and potentially undermine the structure of your driveway. To address these issues, patching and resurfacing are viable options.
When repairing your driveway, be sure to use high-quality materials and follow proper procedures. Using professional-grade materials, such as Perma-Patch products, helps ensure that your repairs are durable and long-lasting. Many of these products are ready to use straight out of the container, eliminating the need for mixing or specialized preparation.
While patching may be an option for minor issues, resurfacing is better suited for larger ones. This repair technique involves applying a layer of asphalt or concrete to the surface of your driveway, covering up imperfections such as cracks and potholes. Unlike patching, resurfacing offers a more durable solution and can prolong the lifespan of your driveway by several years.
The best time to perform resurfacing is during cooler temperatures, when the material will cure more quickly. Once the new surface is properly cured, it can withstand harsh weather conditions without further damage.
If your driveway has extensive cracking or surface damage, you might need to consider complete replacement. This is a more costly solution, but it’s a good choice if you want to ensure that your driveway is structurally sound and safe for vehicles. A concrete replacement also provides a smooth and attractive finish that can enhance your property’s overall appearance.
Sealing
A seal coat protects your driveway from the elements and adds a fresh new look to it. A properly applied coat can extend the lifespan of your driveway by shielding it from cracks, fading, moisture and chemical spills. This process requires careful planning and observation of weather conditions to ensure optimal results.
Inspecting your driveway regularly for damage and addressing issues promptly can save you money in the long run. Recognizing cracks, potholes and other signs of deterioration early can help you to avoid costly repairs and enjoy your driveway for longer. Regular cleaning with a hose or broom will also reduce surface damage and keep your driveway looking great.
Before you apply a driveway sealant, clean the surface to remove any dirt or debris. This will allow the sealant to adhere more effectively. If your driveway has stains from grease, oil or other chemicals, use a degreaser to get rid of them. If your concrete is stained or damaged, patching or resurfacing may be required before sealing.
You can apply a driveway sealant on your own, but hiring a professional is the best way to ensure a high-quality result. A professional will have specialized equipment and the experience necessary to achieve a seamless, even finish. They will also know when to apply a second coat to strengthen the initial application.
When you’re ready to start, check the weather forecast to ensure suitable conditions for applying and curing the sealant. Asphalt sealants require warm temperatures to adhere and cure correctly. Avoid attempting this project during rainy or freezing weather.
Sealing your driveway is a simple and cost-effective project that can extend its lifespan significantly. It’s important to reapply the sealant every two years to maintain its effectiveness. While resealing isn’t as labor-intensive as repairs or resurfacing, it can still be time consuming. If you have a busy schedule, hiring a professional to take care of your driveway repair is a smart option that will save you both time and energy. A professional will be able to complete the project quickly and efficiently, and they’ll provide you with a warranty to ensure that your driveway is protected for years to come.
Resurfacing
Resurfacing a driveway involves applying a new layer of material over the existing one to create a fresh and attractive surface. This option can be ideal if you’re looking to rejuvenate your driveway’s appearance and want a more economical choice than replacement. However, it’s important to weigh the benefits of resurfacing against those of a replacement project before committing to this solution.
One of the most common signs that a driveway needs tending is the appearance of cracks. These usually appear across or alongside the concrete and can indicate a problem with the foundation or excessive wear caused by heavy traffic or changing seasonal temperatures. If the cracks are progressing into a series of overlapping fissures called alligator cracks, your concrete will likely need to be replaced rather than repaired with patching materials.
A resurfacing product like NewCrete is an excellent alternative to full replacement, offering a durable finish that bonds with the concrete and improves durability and functionality. NewCrete is a blend of calcium sulfoaluminate, polymer, and other ingredients that penetrate the surface of your driveway to increase strength and resiliency. When properly applied and cured, it provides an extremely durable and stain-resistant finish that is more resistant to weathering, abrasion, and vehicle traffic.
The resurfacing process involves prepping the concrete to ensure that the resurfacer adheres effectively. It’s recommended that you clean the surface with a pressure washer to remove any substances that might prevent adhesion and wash away debris and dirt. It’s also important to etch the concrete or grind it for improved adhesion and avoid a thin layer of resurfacer from peeling off.
After preparing the concrete, a bonding agent is applied to enhance adhesion and then the resurfacer is mixed according to manufacturer instructions. The resurfacer is then troweled onto the concrete and spread evenly to prevent lumping or pooling. It’s best to work in small sections and allow the resurfacer to dry fully before exposing it to heavy use.
After the resurfacing is completed, it’s important to let the driveway cure completely for two days before driving or walking on it. During this time, it’s a good idea to intermittently mist the surface with water to speed up the curing process.
Replacement
A well-maintained concrete driveway is a key component of the curb appeal of your home, but there will come a time when major damage makes replacement the best option. Severe cracks, settling, and crumbling usually indicate that the concrete was not poured correctly or didn’t cure properly. This can also happen if the soil beneath the driveway is unstable, particularly if the area has erosion-prone conditions or slopes downhill. Standing water can erode the surface of the concrete and penetrate into the subgrade, causing it to sink or shift.
Concrete repair products are designed to fill in cracks and enhance the visual appeal of a damaged driveway. They are available as patching compounds, resurfacing agents, and sealants. It is important to select a product that is specifically designed for concrete driveways and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure proper application and optimal results.
If the concrete is in good condition but a few slabs have sunken, this can be addressed by injecting a lifting foam beneath the sunken sections and filling them with sand. This will raise the slabs back to their original level and prevent trip hazards. The repaired sections can then be sanded and sealed to preserve the look of the new concrete.
The concrete that makes up your driveway is under constant stress from the weight of vehicles, snow, and ice. It’s important to reduce the amount of salt and other de-icing chemicals that you use, as these can eat away at the concrete, weakening it and contributing to early deterioration.
Regular maintenance, including cleaning dirty concrete, sealing cracks, and resurfacing or repairing areas as soon as they appear will help your driveway last longer and avoid costly repairs in the future. Vigilance is also key: the sooner you spot problems, like cracks and sinking slabs, the easier it will be to fix them before they get worse. It is also important to keep heavy equipment, dumpsters, and trucks off of the driveway as much as possible. This will minimize the impact that they have on the underlying soil and prevent them from crushing the concrete.