How to Know Whether I Know to Repair My Driveway?
Your driveway serves two major purposes: function and style. A driveway in disrepair lacks style and can be a hassle to use. A well-maintained driveway boosts curb appeal and ensures easy navigation without dodging holes and large cracks. If you’re considering driveway repair, the first steps to achieving a fresh look are patching and resurfacing. Full replacement should only be considered when all other repair options are exhausted.
Patching a Driveway: Pros & Cons
- Pro: Patching involves filling tiny holes or cracks with asphalt or concrete sealant, which you can pick up at a hardware store. This method is easy to do yourself, doesn’t disrupt the use of your driveway, and is cost-effective, with expenses ranging from $2 to $3 per square foot plus tools.
- Con: However, it’s important to understand that patching is a short-term solution, ideal only for cracks less than ¼ inch wide. While it can temporarily fix small imperfections, it leaves visible patches on your driveway and does not address underlying issues, making it a temporary fix.
Resurfacing a Driveway: Pros & Cons
- Pro: Resurfacing involves scraping off damaged parts of your driveway and pouring new asphalt or concrete. This method can add up to 10 years to your driveway’s lifespan and is less expensive than a full replacement, costing $3 to $7 per square foot. Resurfacing avoids costly and disruptive demolition, making it a more efficient solution.
- Con: However, resurfacing is not a DIY project; it requires professional help, which increases costs. Before resurfacing, all driveway damage must be repaired, and the method is more suitable for driveways in overall decent condition, typically between five to 15 years old.
Replacing a Driveway: Pros & Cons
- Pro: For extensive damage or driveways older than 15 years, replacement is often necessary. Replacing your driveway is the most long-term solution, providing a fresh start and the opportunity to redesign and seal the driveway as desired. It is more cost-effective for highly damaged driveways, ensuring a durable surface that can last 15 to 20 years with proper maintenance.
- Con: However, replacing a driveway comes with the highest cost, up to $15 per square foot, and is not a DIY job. The process can be disruptive to daily use for several days, requiring significant planning and professional assistance.
Is Driveway Repair Right for Your Type of Driveway?
Asphalt Driveways
Asphalt driveways are a popular choice due to their low installation costs and stability compared to aggregate options like gravel. Repairs and resurfacing can extend the life of an asphalt driveway, maintaining its appearance and functionality. Asphalt driveways last around 15 years, so repairs before then can prevent the need for a full replacement.
However, repairs do not remove the aging asphalt underneath, and for driveways older than 20 years, replacement may be more practical. Repairing or resurfacing costs $3 to $7 per square foot, while replacing costs around $15 per square foot.
Concrete Driveways
Concrete driveways offer multiple rejuvenation options, including repair, resurfacing, and staining. These methods are cost-effective and enhance the driveway’s appearance. For issues like grease stains, chips, or cracks, resurfacing is typically the best solution, costing $2 to $6 per square foot.
However, concrete driveways over 30 years old may require full replacement, as significant repairs may not be cost-effective in the long run. Crumbling concrete (spalling) and large cracks necessitate a more comprehensive approach, possibly leading to replacement.
Maintenance Best Practices for Your Driveway
- Patch cracks immediately to prevent them from widening.
- Fill potholes and address structural issues promptly.
- Install proper drainage to prevent erosion.
- Reseal your driveway every 3-5 years.
- Shovel snow instead of salting.
- Pressure wash your driveway annually.
- Regularly redistribute gravel on gravel driveways.
- Trim surrounding landscape to avoid root damage.
- Avoid parking heavy equipment on vulnerable areas.
Questions to Ask a Driveway Repair Pro
- Can you provide references or photos of previous projects?
- What’s the projected timeline for the repair?
- Are you licensed and insured?
- What’s included in your quote? Is it subject to change?
- Do you offer any warranties or guarantees on your work?
- What materials will you use for the repair, and why are they the best choice for my driveway?
- What maintenance will be required post-repair?
- How do you handle changes or additional work that may be needed during the repair process?
- What’s the cleanup process after the repair work is finished?
Related: Concrete vs Asphalt Driveways: Which Should I Choose?
Why Choose Toscan Construction for Driveway Repair?
At Toscan Construction, we pride ourselves on delivering top-notch driveway repair services tailored to meet your specific needs. Our experienced team is equipped with the latest tools and techniques to ensure your driveway looks great and functions perfectly for years to come. We offer competitive pricing, reliable service, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.
Need a concrete or asphalt driveway repair or replacement project? Contact Toscan Construction today by giving our team a call at 401-333-3456.