Keeping Up With Curb Appeal: The Top Driveway Maintenance Tips You Need to Know
The Top Driveway Maintenance Tips You Need to Know
Are you hoping to keep your driveway in top shape? If so, read this guide to learn the top driveway maintenance tips.
Keyword(s): driveway maintenance
Did you know that your driveway can affect the value of your home?
Your driveway is one of the first things people will notice about your property. A poorly maintained driveway will leave a negative impression. In fact, a driveway in poor condition could even pose a danger to visitors to your property.
On the other hand, an immaculately maintained driveway speaks volumes about yourself as a homeowner. Whether you are looking to sell your home or just have pride of ownership, taking proper care of your driveway is essential to maintaining curb appeal.
Keep reading for some of our top tips on driveway maintenance to keep your property in top shape.
Your Type of Driveway
The type of driveway you have will determine what sort of maintenance you will need to do.
Concrete driveways are particularly popular because they are among the best looking and easiest to maintain materials. However, they can be more expensive than other materials and they do tend to take on damage over the winter months.
Failing to correct minor problems can quickly lead to major damage that might require you to replace your entire driveway.
Asphalt driveways are smooth and durable but need regular maintenance to prevent cracks and crumbling. Small damage that goes unrepaired can quickly lead to major crumbling.
Concrete Driveways
Rain tends to get under driveways and causes the ground to shift. This leads to cracks and crumbling of the cement.
When the ground freezes and thaws, this effect is even more pronounced. Pooling water in low spots also causes cracking. Keep your concrete driveway in top shape by caulking and sealing any cracks.
Examine your driveway carefully, especially in the spring. If you see any damage, repair it sooner than later. Be sure to check your driveway after a significant rainfall to look for pooling water.
Check for cracks inside the expansion joints, and if you find any, make sure to seal them. You can use a concrete re-surfacer to level your driveway and fix any low spots. This will also give your damaged driveway an improved look.
If there are any areas that have sunk down, you will need to lift those up. You also need to re-seal your driveway every 3 to 5 years. Keep it clear of weeds, moss, and lichen that can grow and cause damage to your driveway.
Asphalt Driveways
The maintenance tips for concrete driveways also apply to those made of asphalt with a few additional considerations.
Asphalt driveways are particularly prone to potholes. You'll want to fix these right away.
If you own an asphalt driveway and are having a problem with weed growth, you might consider placing edging materials along the driveway. You can use a weed proof mat covered by rubber mulch.
Asphalt driveways should be sealed every 1 to 3 years.
Professional Driveway Maintenance
Some driveway maintenance can be done yourself but some require a professional. If you are having trouble maintaining your driveway on your own or if you need a complete replacement, consider consulting a professional.
Your driveway is not something to let go by the wayside. Pristine driveways increase a home's value and driveways in poor condition can be downright dangerous.
Contact us today for help maintaining your driveway.