Tips and Tricks for Proper Driveway Maintenance
Proper Driveway Maintenance
Most people usually get a first impression of a home by the driveway, so it should be well-maintained. A driveway can display a more aesthetic appearance, so you should maintain it properly to avoid extensive and more frequent maintenance bills. You should care for your driveway to ensure it remains in excellent condition for as long as possible.
Inspect Annually
The first measure you need to take to ensure your driveway is in good condition is to conduct a Caravan Inspection once a year. Check areas susceptible to decay, indicating the degree of wear, such as cracks, pitting, crumbling, etc. Conducting an inspection in summer or fall will mean that you can solve any issues before the onset of the winter period.
Check Drainage
Ensure that the drainage system is designed correctly to prevent water from accumulating on the driveway, as this leads to potholes. Look for areas that are depressed or have lower points, which will not drain quickly when filled with water. Empty the water into a bucket and use a broom to clean any dirt or debris so water can drain to the sides or channels. This may need re-grading to help run the water off the driveway correctly.
Clean Oil Stains
Splashes of oil from vehicles cause the concrete to stain and corrode quickly. Wash stains with an oil stain remover or degreaser to ensure these stains do not worsen and continue penetrating deeper. Scrubb out with a stiff brush, and also make sure to rinse it down. Then, moving forward, endeavor to wash new stains as early as possible so that they cannot set or become difficult to remove.
Seal Cracks
Sealing cracks is the best way to eliminate the stress that seepages or splits in concrete driveways cause; cracks ought to be treated immediately to avoid the damage worsening. Opt for a crack filler specially designed for use on concrete surfaces that can bend with the concrete. If applying a sealant to a crack, ensure that the crack is washed out well before applying the sealant. As with any product, it is essential to follow all instructions as stated in the product information sheets. Sealing your driveway is always advisable, as this goes a long way in increasing its lifespan.
Repair Pitting and Crumbling
For sections of the driveway that are pitted, crumbled, or otherwise in a state of disrepair, there are products available for repair that can effectively resurface the area. After that, the concrete area should be washed down, and the concrete resurfacer should be installed using a trowel of the right height. This is a much less costly and more efficient way of fixing the issue than the complete driveway overhaul.
Power Wash Periodically
From time to time, generally about once every three to four years, you should consider power washing your driveway if it is dirty. You should be able to clean up dirt, grime, moss, and algae growth with an effective pressure washing session. Make sure that the area for which the concrete will be poured doesn’t get damaged in the process. Maintaining like-new cleanliness is possible through periodic power washing.
Re-Seal as Needed
Sealing or re-sealing your asphalt or concrete driveway every 2-5 years is recommended to protect the paved area and avoid degradation. When applying a sealer, it is always recommended that the driveway be cleaned and dried first. A substrate can be applied using a squeegee or sprayer and back-rolling to the applied surface. This is not ordinary paint, so make sure to use the exterior grade driveway sealer only. A specific type of sealant has been developed for this job, and it is used to improve the looks of the surface to seal and to protect it from water damage.
Snow and Ice Removal
Clear your driving as soon as you are able to after snowfalls occur. Depending on the road conditions, you may need to have a shovel and de-icing compounds on hand. Do not scrape and remove the ice simultaneously, as this will harm the concrete surface. The shorter the duration that snow and ice remain on the ground, the smaller the chance they get to penetrate through the cracks and damage your driveway.
Use Floor Jacks Properly
If you need to crawl under a vehicle in your driveway:
Ensure that you use floor jacks and jack stands properly to not damage the driveway.
Place them in their correct positions and turn them on gradually
Ensure that the vehicles are well secured in a manner that won’t allow them to be easily moved
Do not try to bear too much weight in a tiny space, as this can pressure the foundation
Weight Limits
Remember that concrete and asphalt driveways come with certain weight restrictions. It should not be overstressed in terms of load, or it will lead to breakage. With regards to large vehicles such as moving vans, heavy delivery trucks, RVs, and the like, they should be parked in the street, or you should use wooden planks under jacks and dollies to ensure good weight distribution.
Tree Maintenance
Trim trees and shrubs around your driveway for easier access and visibility. Some species of greenery can cause damage to concrete by growing under it and then increasing. Trees and shrubbery also drop leaves, berries, sap, and debris that can damage surfaces and driveways. Make sure that there is enough space between your house and vegetation.
Hire Professionals When Needed
As much as you can paint, scrub, or apply sealant on your own to ensure your driveway’s cleanliness, hiring experts for significant work such as resurfacing or re-grading is best. They have the proper equipment and materials to do professional repair work on driveways. This is why many people are advised to avoid DIY repairs as they may not be completed as effectively and efficiently. If possible, always work to maintain the beauty and health of your driveway.