Why Should You Replace Your Driveway?

Visitors and potential buyers often see your driveway first when they visit your home. It should be clean, welcoming, and in good condition to make a first impression. It can set the tone for potential buyers and the rest of your property. Concrete’s durability, longer lifespan, and lower maintenance requirements all add to its value.

Concrete driveways can be strong and durable with minimal maintenance. Concrete is a popular driveway material even though it can be more costly than asphalt. Concrete is made up of cement, stone particles, water and cement. Concrete can be poured in its raw form, and will take the shape you desire. Concrete driveway installation is not something you can do by yourself if you don’t have the necessary experience. It requires specialized skills, knowledge, and expertise that DIYers may not have.

A driveway replacement involves the complete removal of an existing driveway and then the installation of a new one. This is a labor-intensive, expensive process that requires specialized equipment and many hours of labor. This will obviously be the most costly option. However, a new driveway allows you to modify the design, shape and size of your driveway to fit more cars or to follow a different route.

It may not cost as much to replace concrete completely if you need it. Concrete driveway replacement costs are often around. However, contractors won’t be able to give you an accurate estimate until they contact you for bids.

Signs Your Driveway Needs Replacing

How do you know if your driveway needs repairs? You may notice changes in your driveway and need to plan for replacement, patching or resurfacing. These are the top signs that you should repair or replace your driveway:

The cracks’ depth and length: Take a look at them. If the cracks are not very long and only at the surface, there is a possibility that you can repair them. This indicates that the damage to the surface is not affecting the foundation. You should consider replacing cracks that reach the foundation. If you wait, the cracks will grow larger. This could lead to foundation problems in your home.

The existing material: This is another factor to consider when deciding whether to replace or repair your driveway. Some surfaces are more difficult to repair than others. For natural cobblestones, it may be enough to replace a few of the cracked pavers. Concrete will need to be resealed or re-surfaced to hide the patchwork. You should also consider how your driveway material will age. Certain materials can look weathered over time due to sun exposure and constant traffic. While this may not affect your driveway’s functionality or durability, it can impact the aesthetics of your property.

Drainage problems: If your driveway, or the yard surrounding it isn’t draining properly, and water is directing toward your foundation, you should address this problem immediately to avoid any property damage.

Age: You should also consider how your driveway material will age. Certain materials can look weathered over time due to sun exposure and constant traffic. Although it may not affect your driveway’s functionality or durability, it can impact the aesthetics of your property. Consider a driveway material that will naturally hide wear and tear and will only get better over time.

Older designs: While your driveway may not require a complete overhaul, you might be ready to change it. You don’t have to do a complete demolition to achieve the look you desire. Concrete resurfacing can be a great way to improve the appearance of your driveway.

Excessive repairs: Concrete driveways that are subject to frequent repairs may need to be replaced. Your driveway’s appearance can be affected by the repair process, which can cause further problems later. It is possible to save time and have your driveway replaced with concrete materials. This will allow you to enjoy the beauty and functionality of your driveway for many years.

Last Thoughts

It can be more expensive than you expected to replace a driveway. The cost of a driveway replacement includes demolition, removal, pouring and finishing. Concrete and asphalt are the best choices when it comes to replacing or repaving your driveway. Asphalt is more affordable upfront than concrete, but both materials are more affordable in the long-term. It is important to consider the long-term benefits and not just the immediate costs.