A driveway is an investment. While there isn’t a lot that needs to be done to keep it in good shape, it can’t be neglected either. There are some simple things that you can do to take good care of it and keep it at its best for as long as possible. Regular maintenance cuts down on the need for repair, which is harder to do yourself and more costly. However, for some of the bigger tasks or expert advice, it is best to call the professionals with the right experience and equipment.
Why Take Care of the Driveway?
Driveways are made from stone or concrete. Concrete is solid and durable and great for driveways and walkways, but keeping up with the maintenance is important. When concrete settles, it can crack. These are small cracks at first and become larger cracks with time. The surface becomes uneven and water can accumulate in small puddles, damaging it even further. Uneven surfaces are potentially dangerous and are tripping hazards. Even if the damage is only slight, another reason to maintain the driveway, of course, is that it looks much better and adds to the value of the home.
Keep the Driveway Clean
Keep your concrete driveway swept clean of leaves, dirt, and grass clippings. Sweep it about once a week. Grass and weeds, if left on the driveway, can bury themselves into the fine cracks and take root, making fine cracks larger or causing greater damage.
Stains should be cleaned up. Concrete is a porous surface, so any spill can stain, especially oil or grease. Clean it up with a soft brush and dish soap and water. If something more is needed, a pressure wash can safely remove stains.
Apply sealer every few years for further protection and to hold the colour. HomeDepot and other hardware stores sell caulking, crack sealant, and offer advice as well.
A Tip to Avoid Repair
Keep the driveway for cars only. Don’t put heavy working vehicles on a residential driveway. Remember that the edges of the driveway are its weakest and can break if vehicles are allowed to run over the edges.
Call the Pros When...
Call the professionals when cracks become bigger and connected with other cracks like a web. If cracks are noticeably growing or widening, call the pros!
Does the concrete surface appear to be sinking, buckling, or warping? Is the base eroding? If so, professional advice should be sought as this can cause damage to the home and its drainage systems, not just the driveway.
Slab jacking is a way of lifting the soil under the concrete so that it is level. If the soil beneath is eroding or shrinking, slab jacking can be done instead of replacing the concrete. Call the pros.
While there are things to do to keep the concrete driveway looking its best, there are times when it is better to call someone for help or advice.
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