Driveways tend to be overlooked when it comes to routine home maintenance. While it may be tempting to assume that they are durable enough to withstand years of weathering and use, the truth is that driveway maintenance and care is needed in order to continue being both structurally and aesthetically pleasing.
Why Does Driveway Maintenance Matter?
Your driveway may not be as alluring as, your yard or landscaping, but attention and care is needed to ensure that it stays in acceptable condition. It is safe to say that most of us hardly notice driveways in good condition, but we certainly notice the ones that aren’t. Cracks, divots, and discolouring can have a substantial negative effect on your home’s curb appeal.
Certain structural issues can develop in a driveway over time, leading to not only a bad look, but hazards as well. Divots and sinking in a driveway can develop over time if left unattended or maintained, making your driveway on par with an off road environment. The negative aspects of this are obvious.
Prevention is the best way to keep a driveway optimal, along with repairing any problems that may be in the beginning stages. Below are four driveway maintenance tips that will help you ensure a clean, structurally sound driveway for years to come.
Sealcoating
Water and sunlight are two of the biggest culprits when it comes to issues with driveways. Small cracks can turn into much bigger problems over time as water seeps in and causes the crack to expand. Long term exposure to sunlight can also wear on a driveway.
Sealcoating your driveway is the best way to protect against these problems, while also giving your driveway an instant upgrade as far as looks are concerned. The sealcoating fills small cracks, while also creating a waterproof and non-porous barrier on your driveway, preventing damage from both sunlight and moisture.
The gloss of the coating can make even the oldest driveways look new, helping create an even tone and minimizing the look of any stains. An added benefit of the coating is its smooth surface, making sweeping and rinsing your driveway much easier. The coating also helps protect against stains.
Seal Coatings do not last forever, so be sure to get yours resealed every few years for best results.
Remove Stains and Spills Immediately
Oil spots are a common culprit in many driveways, creating hard to remove stains that never seem to wash away, no matter how much cat litter you rub into them. While it may be tempting to worry about the oil spot later, it is always best to treat the spot as soon as you can. If your vehicle has a problem leaking oil, consider placing something under it while it is in your driveway until the problem is fixed.
The same can be said for any fuel spills, especially diesel. If you somehow spill diesel on your driveway, immediately remove it, as it can cause major problems for your driveway in a short amount of time.
Edge Your Yard Regularly
Wayward grass may not initially seem like a threat to your driveway, but it will cause issues if left unattended. Overgrown grass on the sides of your driveway can eventually grow towards the sides of your driveway, slowly inching up against it and causing it to shift.
If the growing continues, the roots and grass can end up making the driveway crack and even buckle. Edge your yard regularly to keep the grass trimmed and away from the sides of your driveway. Edging deep into the ground in between your yard and driveway will create a small trench that helps prevent the grass from overtaking.
Be Gentle
Driveways are made of concrete, but that doesn’t mean you can treat them as if they are unbreakable. If you have to shovel snow in the wintertime, try to use a plastic shovel that won’t chip away or scratch your driveway. Avoid dropping heavy items on your driveway, and try to avoid doing any hammering or similar actions with items laying on your driveway. A small crack can be much larger by the time you are done.
Need Driveway Work? Contact Dirt Connections!
Whether you need simple driveway repairs to your existing concrete driveway, or an entire driveway replacement, driveway leveling, or widening, Dirt Connections has the tools and experts on hand that can get the job done. Dirt Connections can help you maintain your concrete driveway, from installation and paving, to a full replacement 25 years later. We also offer sealcoating of existing driveways, along with decorative concrete, patios, and decks. Contact us today to discuss your home’s needs!
