3 Signs It’s Time to Repair Your Driveway

November 8, 2017

Finding parking space can often be such a pain, particularly when you just want to settle close to home. After a long day’s work, walking several blocks to your house isn’t altogether appealing. This is one of the pleasures of having your own driveway. You know there will always be a place for you, no matter when you get home. Considering how useful driveways are, make sure they are in good condition and safe to use. Here are signs that it’s time to repair your driveway:

1. Cracks and Potholes

The most immediate and obvious signs that your driveway needs repairs are cracks and potholes. These are, unfortunately, inevitable and will occur with usage and the simple passage of time. Cracks form when the surface of your driveway is exposed to oils, gas, salts and other harmful materials. Potholes form when the ground underneath your driveway shifts. Potholes can also form if cracks are left untreated. Both are exacerbated in winter – when they are filled with ice that expands them.

At the outset, the biggest concern of cracks is simple aesthetics. They can lower the curb appeal of your home. If left alone, however, they become potholes that damage car tires, undercarriages, and suspension. When fixing small cracks you can use a sealant, but bigger cracks and potholes will need an upheaval.

2. Unevenness and Appearance

These two go hand-in-hand. An uneven driveway does not look pleasant, and can also be indicative of more severe problems. It is an indicator of instability in the ground below that leads to cracks and potholes.

Over time, your driveway will become faded. A vibrant, clean driveway will appeal to potential buyers because it will tell them that this driveway is being properly maintained. Alternatively, a faded driveway will make them fear that upkeep on it has been missed entirely and may affect purchasing decisions.

3. Drainage Complications

A good driveway should have a means of guiding water away from it. If you’ve been noticing a lot of puddles, this is an indicator that water isn’t being properly directed away. Consider concrete leveling or sloping your driveway to prevent it from accumulating any water damage.

There are plenty of things to consider when planning the driveway for your custom home – ongoing maintenance and repairs when needed should be one of them. With these signs it’s time to repair your driveway in mind, you will be sure to spot trouble the moment it begins to arrive and ensure your driveway remains pristine.