Regardless of how amazing your house looks, a worn-out driveway will ruin its curb appeal. It’s the part of the house we never wish to replace, but unfortunately, it cannot withstand the elements forever. Therefore, if you’re uncertain if it is time to repair your driveway, we’ve got you. Here’s a list of signs to consider:
- Cracks
Cracks are the most common signs that your driveway will soon need repairs. It’s a common occurrence on concrete driveways especially. Oftentimes, de-icing, oil, gas, water, and dust penetration make the situation worse. Through their corrosive properties, they extend the crack making it visible and aesthetically unappealing.
And if your region experiences winter, the cracks will enlarge even further due to freeze and thaw. As such, it’s best to fix the cracks when they begin to develop. However, if they enlarge, you’ll have to repour the entire driveway.
- Too Old
Driveways too have a lifespan no matter how durable they’re. Most of them will last between 15 and 20 years, and after that, they will disintegrate pretty fast. Speaking of disintegration, an old driveway will experience all types of issues simultaneously.
That means cracks will develop, potholes, rough appearances, and poor drainage. Following years of exposure to scorching elements, chemicals, and human activities, potholes and cracks are unpreventable. In this position, replacing the entire driveway is the only solution.
- Potholes
While you can fix cracks in their early stages, there’s no chance of a pothole. Once a pothole has formed, you will need the surface and underlying base layer repaired. Potholes are not only unsightly but can also damage your car severely. Driving on a pothole daily can wreak havoc on your car tires and suspension over time.
Potholes develop due to a shift or weak ground below. Due to the elements, the loose surface wears off creating a depression gradually. And it goes on until the pothole fully develops. Some minor potholes are fixable; however, this solution is not permanent. Therefore, renovating the entire driveway is usually the best solution.
- Rough Appearances
Due to continuous exposure to UV rays from the sun, your driveway will begin losing its vibrancy. The UV rays have high penetrating power causing surface oxidation and loss of color gradually.
Therefore, if you notice your driveway losing its vibrancy, then updating it is a great option. While the problem is cosmetic, UV rays can weaken the surface structure.
Therefore, if you need a quick solution, applying a concrete sealant will help. It will restore vibrancy and prevent further damage. However, where the damage is past aesthetics to structural, then replacing the driveway entirely is great.
- Drainage Challenges
When the driveway is in its prime, the last issue you would expect is poor drainage. However, when it reaches a point where drainage issues are beginning to develop, then you should call a professional before it gets worse. A driveway with a poor slope or unevenness will generate a pool of water on your property.
Such pools will loosen the base layer of the driveway even more. There are multiple ways to solve poor drainage. For instance, you can install drains or drainage channels to direct the water away from the driveway.
Getting Started
Repairing a concrete driveway is not something you can turn into a DIY project. It’s a major project that needs expertise, proper planning, equipment, and experience. Therefore, it requires a professional hand. To residents in Toronto, contact Turnbull Masonry. They’re experts in concrete work and will gladly fix any issues you are experiencing with your concrete driveway.
