Everything You Need to Know About Driveway Maintenance and Repairs
Your driveway will be the first impression guests get of your home or business. This is why it is essential to keep it in good condition. The steps to achieve a well-conserved driveway can vary depending on the driveway’s surface, foundation, and age. Please note that some repairs may require professional help.
Why It’s Important to Maintain Your Driveway
Driveway maintenance is often overlooked, but it is a necessary part of home care and can have severe consequences if ignored – not just for aesthetic appeal.
For example, poorly maintained driveways with cracks and potholes can serve as a tripping hazard for you, your guests and neighbours and can also damage your vehicle in the long run by damaging suspension or knocking your steering out of alignment.
Another more permanent issue that could arise from lack of driveway maintenance is damage to your home or businesses foundation. When cracks occur or paving becomes loose, water can penetrate the sub-layers. This penetration can destabilize the entire driveway area and, depending on location relative to the driveway, could also cause water pressure to build on the home’s foundation. This hydrostatic pressure is a prime cause of foundation deterioration.
How to Maintain the Most Common Driveway Types
Tarmac (Asphalt) Driveways
Tarmac driveways are water-impermeable, creating a preventative layer that protects the material and underlying surfaces from water damage with a skid-resistant surface to prevent skids and falls during colder weather.
Often used for businesses, this surface can be subject to damage over time from shifting tree roots, solvent damage from oil and other spills, and repeated load weight. If your current drive has cracks, potholes, or other signs of wear and tear, you may wish to consider resurfacing your tarmac. If only minor repairs are required, it may be possible to patch these areas to prevent them from worsening.
Resin-bonded Driveways
Resin-bonded drives are a common alternative for tarmac and require little upkeep other than regular cleaning with a stiff brush and clean, cold water. If cracks occur, it is vital to repair swiftly to prevent water ingression and further damage. Weeds may occasionally sprout within this surface. These must be removed as they appear to avoid cracking and fissures from forming.
Loose Shingle or Gravel Driveways
This low-maintenance option is common in rural areas, with many styles and colours available. Sinking or movement may occur – this is natural and can be remedied by moving around the shingle or gravel for an even spread. Occasionally it will be necessary to ‘top up’ this drive to ensure an even and protective covering of the earth below.
Block Paving Driveways
In comparison to other driveway options, block paving is notably environmentally friendly, as it prevents water from gathering and flooding the surrounding areas. The bricks naturally absorb the water, so a drainage system is implemented within your driveway. Maintenance is low effort. Regular sweeping and washing with warm soapy water can help it look its best all year round. During this washing, jointing sand may become displaced. To avoid any foundational damage, this must be replaced where necessary.
Tar & Chip Driveways
This attractive yet hardwearing bitumen-based alternative to plain tarmac or gravel drives requires minor maintenance. Brushing loose stones away regularly and occasionally washing with cold soapy water is usually all that is needed. If proper drainage is in place, it is rare that these drives crack or move, but if this does occur, patches can be made by a professional. Vehicles mustn’t rapidly break or accelerate often on this surface as this can dislodge stones and damage the appearance of the surface.
How to Know When Your Driveway Needs Repairing?
Four key signs that indicate a driveway repair is needed include:
- Cracks, potholes and fissures have begun to form
- Pooling of water or other indications of poor drainage such as water damage at the entrance of your home or business
- A large number of weeds growing within your surface
- A general poor appearance, for example, a dull or patchy surface
What You Should Consider When Resurfacing Your Driveway
Resurfacing your driveway is an investment that must not be taken lightly. Suppose your driveway is beyond repair and showing signs of warping or crumbling. In that case, it may be time to resurface completely, in which case our team of experts will consider what surface will suit your area and budget best and build an individual quote. Dependent on the age and type of your current driveway, our team may be able to offer restorative services such as patching or applying another coating.
Talk to Axtell Surfacing Today About Driveway Resurfacing & Repairs
Whether you are simply looking to repair your driveway or thinking about a complete resurfacing, our team at Axtell Surfacing is here to help. With over 20 years of experience, we are experts in surfacing and can provide thorough and evidence-based guidance on what will suit your needs. Click here to learn more about our driveway resurfacing services, or contact our dedicated team today to get a quote.