Many people forget to budget for ongoing expenses after purchasing a home. This is understandable, given that the average home in the US sold for nearly $508,000 in 2022.
However, home maintenance and improvement are some of the most significant costs to account for. Many people choose to invest money into renovating their driveways, but it’s not always easy to recognize whether they need replacement or repair.
Both have essential nuances to understand, and the process is more straightforward than most people anticipate. Let’s explore what you need to know about replacing a driveway vs repairing it.
Replacing a Driveway
Concrete driveway replacement is most appropriate for people who want a brand-new appearance for their driveway. The same can be said for driveways that have significant damage. This is relatively common after natural disasters, as falling trees and debris can cause considerable damage.
There’s something to be said about the age of your driveway, too. While most driveways can last well over two decades, they’ll eventually start to show their age. Depending on the condition of your driveway when you purchased your home, it may need to be replaced sooner than later.
Keep in mind that replacing your driveway is much more expensive and complicated than repairing it. While you can fix specific driveway problems independently, you’ll need to hire a professional to replace your driveway.
Repairing a Driveway
Repairing your concrete driveway is the most appropriate choice in most circumstances. Driveway chipping and staining are common issues that homeowners encounter, but they can be handled on their own.
If the damage is less than 1/4 inch wide, you can quickly repair your driveway using surface patching.
This involves milling the top layers of a damaged portion of the driveway. The hole is then cleaned before a new concrete is added. It’s then compacted and leveled off.
For more significant segments of damaged driveways, you may need to dig them out and patch them. This often isn’t recommended, as it can be lengthy and expensive.
Depending on the size of the area that needs repair, driveway installation might be more appropriate. Unless you have substantial experience with driveway repair, you should work with a professional contractor.
Deciding Which Is Best
The easiest way to decide which is best is to determine if the issues with your driveway can be fixed in a reasonable amount of time without spending a substantial amount of money. For example, your driveway might have numerous chips, cracks, and stains.
Repairing each separate issue would likely be impractical, making replacement more appropriate. The urgency of the problem also plays a role.
If you don’t care about resolving the problem quickly, you might want to consider repairs rather than replacement. You can repair numerous issues over a long period instead of handling all of them at once.
If you need results as fast as possible, driveway replacement is the superior option. Regardless of what you choose, it is essential to understand what the process will involve.
This will help you mentally prepare for the project and budget appropriately. The average homeowner spent approximately $6,000 on home maintenance in 2022, so having this foresight can make your life easier.
Driveway Maintenance Tips
There are specific tips you can keep in mind to maximize your driveway’s longevity. One of the most important things is to fill the cracks as soon as possible.
You can use a masonry chisel to remove loose materials. This allows you to brush away debris before using crack filler to patch it. You can also prevent cracks by sealing concrete driveways annually.
Many overlook that shrub and tree roots can push up through the ground and cause cracks in your driveway. You can eliminate this issue by removing these plants or trimming their roots.
It’s imperative to clean motor oil stains as soon as possible. Motor fluids can seep up to 1/4 inch into concrete, softening the material and making it more prone to damage.
If the stain is recent, use grease-cutting dishwashing detergent and warm water. Older stains require extensive scrubbing and biodegradable cleaners.
Never use a wire brush to scrub your driveway. This can damage its surface. Instead, use a regular scrub brush.
Finding Driveway Contractors
Before proceeding, specific attributes must be assessed when searching for a professional. One of the most important is the candidate’s reputation. What do other people have to say about their experiences?
Were they satisfied with the results they achieved? The answers to these questions will help you find the ideal choice. It’s also essential to look through their past projects.
Reputable companies often have examples of their capabilities on their websites. What is their pricing like?
You often get what you pay for, so choosing the cheapest option is never recommended. You also don’t have to pay as much as possible, though.
There’s a point of diminishing returns regarding what you pay, and spending more money doesn’t always equate to better results. Somewhere in the middle of the price range is often the best option.
Do they often handle situations like yours? The last thing you want is to waste time communicating with a company that can’t meet your needs.
Don’t be afraid to continue your search elsewhere if something seems off. With enough due diligence, you’ll find a professional capable of handling your needs. read our article: How to find a reliable contractor.
Get Started ASAP
Whether your goal is replacing a driveway or repairing a driveway, it’s imperative to take action as soon as possible. This will ensure you prevent additional issues from arising while keeping your home’s curb appeal pristine.
California Clean & Seal offers our clients high-quality outdoor remodeling, restoration, and cleaning services. We strive to deliver fast results without sacrificing quality. Get a free quote today. Call us to schedule your appointment at 619-818-0113 to learn more about how we can improve your property’s appearance.
