When and How to Repair or Resurface Your Driveway
5 min read
Your driveway is the entrance to your home.
However, it may be time to consider repairing or even replacing it when it shows signs of wear and tear.
Read on to find out when and how to repair or resurface it!
How do you know when a driveway needs to be repaired or resurfaced?
The usual lifespan of a driveway is up to about 20 years.
However, even with proper care and maintenance, it will eventually show the common signs that it’s time to resurface or repair it. These can be anything from cracks to potholes, drainage issues, or uneven surfaces.
That’s all due to the constant exposure to the elements, the heavy weight of vehicles, oil leaks, and erosion, all contributing to its current condition.
For example, extremely hot weather can damage your driveway, resulting in pattern change and unevenness. Rainwater will also contribute to this problem unless dealt with immediately.
If you see any cracks or holes starting to form, have them repaired before they get larger. You can quickly repair those with a filler, but if they become potholes, that will require resurfacing or replacement.
Standing water is also a sign of trouble, for it can seep into the cracks and accelerate the wear and tear.
An uneven surface is also a sign your driveway needs repairs. It’s not only a tripping hazard, but it can cause damage to your vehicle as well. The most common reasons for that are tree roots, poor installation and normal wear and tear.
Any of these signs show that a driveway needs repair before the damage becomes too big and costly.
Why is it worthwhile to repair or resurface your driveway
There are several benefits to doing so, but the short answer is: it saves you money, time and a lot of hard work.
A repaired or resurfaced driveway will improve your curb appeal, increase your property value and make your home look more inviting. If you take good care of it, you will also spend much less money in the long run.
An unkempt and damaged driveway can be a safety hazard and damage your vehicles. If you do not repair minor problems, they can quickly grow into larger ones, which will cost much more time and money to deal with later.
Resurfacing options and techniques worth considering
There are several options for repairing and resurfacing your driveway.
All of them depend on its existing conditions, your budget, and your personal preferences.
- Patching: an easy fix to a hole and certainly less expensive than redoing your entire driveway. The disadvantage is that the patch will visually stand out from the rest of your driveway.
- Sealcoating: no disadvantages to sealing coating besides the price tag. This method will make your driveway very durable and look brand new.
- Resurfacing: the professionals remove the top layer of your driveway and place a new one over it. The new surface will look nicer and not all covered in patches. However, if your basis is weak, new holes will form eventually, so that has to be taken care of before anything else.
- Engraving: not so much about fixing your driveway as it is a cosmetic job that increases your home exterior’s aesthetic appeal.
- Slabjacking: also known as concrete lifting. This method is excellent if you have sinking slabs, as it restores them to their original level. This method has no disadvantages, but if problems arise, they are most likely due to your soil not being in good enough condition.
- Recolouring: again, a completing job, not really about fixing. Once again, it will increase your curb appeal significantly.
Can this task be done by the homeowner, or is it best to hire a pro?
Unless the homeowner is a pro, outside help is always best.
The reason is simple: professionals have the experience, tools and manpower to do the job in less time than a regular homeowner. That can save lots of time and money, which can be better allocated to better things: like work and family.
In the long run, it’s worth having professional help with the installation and the following patio cleaning and maintenance since companies also guarantee their work. Should any problems arise, you will be covered.
What do homeowners need to consider carefully before investing in this project?
They must decide whether they want concrete or asphalt for their repair work.
Asphalt is cost-effective and easy to repair and install, making it a budget-friendly option for many homeowners. It’s also durable and can withstand heavy traffic and most weather conditions.
However, it’s prone to cracking and requires regular maintenance, like seal coating and crack filling. Some homeowners will also find it unappealing since it’s black in colour and doesn’t offer much in terms of curb appeal.
Concrete is way more durable but also more expensive. It can last up to 30 years and offers much more visual appeal to your property. It might cost you more but requires much less maintenance, as it’s more resistant to damage.
The drawbacks, besides the cost, are that the installation takes longer and you might have to wait a week before you can drive on it. Since concrete is porous, it can absorb stains from oil and grease, making it difficult to maintain its appeal over time.
It’s also prone to damage if your area has frequent freeze-thaw cycles.
What weather conditions/time of year are best for this type of project?
The best times of the year are late spring and summer.
Cold months are undesirable because the liquid concrete or asphalt poured on the ground would harden too fast and become uneven.
Asphalt is best installed during warmer months when it’s dry and temperatures are between 10 and 30 degrees Celsius. However,
Concrete can be installed at about the same temperature, but never during very hot or cold conditions, as that can cause cracks or cause unevenness. You must choose a time when there is no rain, as that can interfere with its ability to cure properly.
All in all, the best time to resurface your driveway is during mild and consistent weather conditions.
Conclusion
There are many benefits to repairing or resurfacing your driveway.
Whether you want to increase your home’s curb appeal and value or enhance your safety, these goals are worth your investment.
