Concrete and asphalt driveways and walks can sustain damage from heavy traffic, weather changes and surface erosion. Several simple strategies can help homeowners keep these structures looking good and functioning well.
Routine cleaning keeps dirt, oil and organic debris from eating away at the surface and speeding deterioration. Checking for signs of damage at regular intervals is also important. Sealcoating every few years keeps water from penetrating and deteriorating the material.
Crack Filling
The first step to preserving the integrity of your concrete driveway is addressing cracks as they develop. Crack filling helps to prevent water and moisture from seeping into the cracks and freezing during winter, which can cause them to worsen. Using a concrete driveway crack filler will also protect the surface from the elements, extending its lifespan and improving curb appeal. When selecting a crack filler for your driveway, make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions. Also, be sure to let the filler dry completely before use.
Asphalt driveways face unique maintenance challenges that require specific strategies to preserve the material’s resilience and appearance. For example, a driveway located in an area with harsh climate conditions needs to be regularly inspected and treated for moisture control and crack repair as well as ice damage prevention.
Regularly cleaning an asphalt driveway ensures that dirt, oil and other debris do not build up, causing damage to the material. Sweeping with a stiff-bristled broom, and occasionally hosing down the surface, help to remove these abrasive materials from the surface. In addition, regularly scrubbing stains with a commercial degreaser such as Red Devil or TSP keeps oil and other grime from discoloring the driveway.
In order to prevent ice damage, chemical de-icers and salt should be avoided, instead opting for sand or kitty litter to provide traction. Additionally, installing downspouts will help improve drainage and minimize standing water on the driveway’s surface.
As winter approaches, a driveway should be inspected for cracks and other signs of wear. Applying a cold patch material or rubberized crack filler will help to prevent these issues from escalating. If the problem is serious, hiring a professional to patch and seal the driveway will help prevent future damage and extend the life of the material.
Preparing an asphalt driveway for winter includes ensuring that it is free of debris, removing trees that touch the surface and making sure that heavy vehicles are parked farther from the drive. If snow removal is necessary, avoid metal shovels and plows that can gouge and scratch the surface. Using ice melt products that are safe for asphalt is also recommended.
Sealing
The ebb and flow of seasonal weather and climate change takes its toll on driveways, and a few simple maintenance steps can help mitigate damage and extend the life of concrete or asphalt. Sealing keeps debris, stains and moisture out of cracks, keeping them from worsening or expanding over time. Regular visual inspections can also help identify early signs of wear, such as hairline fractures that can be filled and sealed before they become major problems.
A good quality, eco-friendly, low-VOC asphalt or concrete sealant will keep your driveway aesthetically pleasing and prevent moisture from seeping in and damaging it. While resurfacing and repairs are great for fixing minor issues, preventive measures can save homeowners a lot of money and hassle in the long run.
Preventive measures include sealing concrete and asphalt every two years to prevent water from penetrating, freezing and deteriorating the surface. It’s also a good idea to redirect downspouts away from the driveway and fill low spots with cold patch asphalt to prevent water pools from forming that can erode the base of the driveway over time. Another important prevention tip is to keep tree roots trimmed or removed near the driveway, as they can push up from underneath and cause cracks in the surface.
Repairing and preventing problems before they occur helps homeowners avoid expensive repair bills, as well as improve their curb appeal and the value of their property. It’s important for homeowners to know when to call in the professionals, however. Professionals can provide in-depth evaluations and often offer more long-lasting solutions than DIY methods.
Some situations require the expertise of a professional, such as extensive or recurring damage that can’t be addressed with simple crack fillers or resurfacing. Deep cracks or potholes may indicate structural integrity issues that require regrading and drainage systems to be addressed.
A professional can also assist with driveway repair by removing oil spills, restoring slope gradients and repairing cracks with hot mix or vinyl patch asphalt before they can worsen. In addition, a professional can help identify the cause of the damage and recommend solutions, such as resurfacing or replacing the driveway entirely.
Repairing Potholes
Asphalt driveways are durable and affordable, but like any surface exposed to the elements they require regular care. Using a combination of maintenance strategies minimizes damage and extends the lifespan of your driveway.
Frequent exposure to weather changes and heavy traffic cause asphalt driveways to develop cracks. Small cracks that go untreated worsen through freeze-thaw cycles and may develop into potholes over time. Identifying and treating these issues promptly prevents structural deterioration and expensive repair costs.
The best way to minimize the need for pothole repairs is to keep a regular upkeep schedule. Routine cleaning removes dirt, debris and weeds that damage the surface. Sweep regularly with a wire street broom or hose and wash the driveway periodically with a pressure washer to eliminate build-up. Oil stains from motor fluid, radiator fluid and other automotive substances degrade asphalt pavements and should be removed as soon as they appear with non-clumping kitty litter, baking soda or grease-cutting dishwashing detergent.
Improving the drainage of your driveway will help to avoid puddles and standing water that can chip away at the asphalt, causing it to erode and create potholes. Creating a proper slope and installing gutters will help direct stormwater and drain water away from your driveway.
Potholes form when water seeps under the asphalt and weakens it, which causes it to swell and sink into the hole. Repairing potholes immediately prevents further deterioration and provides a safer driving surface for pedestrians and vehicles.
A well-maintained driveway improves the curb appeal of your home and adds value to it. Consistent upkeep and timely crack repairs preserve the functionality of your driveway for years to come.
Different driveways have unique maintenance needs, and integrating these tasks into a scheduled routine ensures they are completed properly. For example, flagstone and gravel driveways require more frequent sweeping, while concrete and asphalt driveways need resealing every few years to prevent water from penetrating the surface and freezing, which can crack and discolor the pavement. Using a professional asphalt paving company to perform these services ensures you get the best results possible.
Snow Removal
Driveways face many challenges throughout the year that can impact their longevity. Fortunately, a few simple DIY maintenance tips can prevent serious issues and extend the life of your asphalt driveway.
Regular sweeping and occasional washing with a hose or power washer removes dirt, debris and built-up oil spills from the surface. Oil stains can discolor and weaken the material, so it’s important to treat them early using non-clumping kitty litter or grease-cutting dishwashing detergent. For severe stains, a professional power wash may be necessary.
Keeping grass, weeds and roots under control is also important to avoid damage. If left unchecked, these can push up a driveway and cause cracking. Removing or pruning tree roots is another strategy to keep them from invading the surface.
Preventive care is essential for both concrete and asphalt driveways. Sealing your driveway annually or every few years prevents water from penetrating and freezing and can reduce the need for costly repairs. A reseal also helps keep your driveway looking great. For best results, use a good quality product that is designed for the type of driveway you have (concrete or asphalt). Avoid chemical de-icers and salt; they can penetrate surfaces and cause spalling and scaling. Instead, sprinkle sand or alternative products like coffee grounds, alfalfa meal or kitty litter for traction and to help melt ice.