Surface cracks are one thing, but if they are widespread and open to the soil beneath the driveway, this could allow erosion and frost heaving to do more damage. The only way to fix that is by replacing the old driveway. For professional help, contact Driveway Replacement Colorado Springs.
A driveway and front walk are one of the first things visitors see, and their condition can impact how people perceive a home. Cracked, stained, or discolored asphalt and concrete can give a bad impression, so the key to maximizing curb appeal is to keep these surfaces looking good at all times.
Fortunately, there are plenty of ways to improve your driveway and front walk without breaking the bank. A few small projects that can be done in just a weekend can dramatically boost your home’s appearance.
The easiest way to upgrade your driveway is by replacing the existing material with something that adds interest. For example, asphalt is cheap and durable but doesn’t have the same visual appeal as a cobblestone or brick driveway. You can also go for a smoother look with interlocking pavers that complement your house’s style or choose a rich color to make your driveway stand out.
Another great way to enhance your home’s curb appeal is by adding a decorative element, such as a pillar or statue, to flank the sides of your driveway. You can also add your house numbers or a small tower, allowing these features to become focal points that draw the eye and make your home memorable.
In addition to the material, the size and shape of your driveway can have a significant impact on its aesthetics. For example, long, winding driveways with multiple turns aren’t as appealing as a simple, straight path to the front door. Choosing a material like concrete that suits your property and its surroundings will ensure that your new driveway blends seamlessly with the rest of your landscape.
Regardless of the material you choose, your driveway is an important part of your home’s aesthetic, so don’t settle for an ugly or worn-out one. Even if you’re not planning on selling anytime soon, a well-maintained, stylish driveway can improve the curb appeal of your entire home.
If you do plan on selling your home, a well-maintained, attractive driveway can help you get top dollar for it. However, curb appeal expectations vary from neighborhood to neighborhood and even street to street, so be sure to consult your real estate agent about what kind of upgrades are most beneficial for your specific situation.
Durability
Concrete is a sturdy material that can withstand plenty of wear and tear, though the weather does play a factor. The freeze-thaw cycle, for example, can cause asphalt to crack and expand, especially if it’s exposed to frigid temperatures over long periods of time. These microscopic cracks are easy to ignore, but they can grow into unsightly, costly problems that threaten the integrity of your driveway and tamper with its lifespan. To help combat this, ask your pro to use hot-mix asphalt, which does a good job resisting freeze-thaw damage.
Concrete driveways can also benefit from waterproofing and surface sealing to prevent water and chemicals from seeping through the pores of the concrete and eroding it. These services are particularly effective for concrete that’s in the early stages of its lifespan, when surface cracking and chipping are common.
Pavers are another great option for durable driveways, as they come in a wide range of colors and styles to complement your home’s architecture. They’re also eco-friendly and provide superior traction in wet conditions, making them ideal for areas that often experience rain or snow.
To get the most out of your new paver driveway, ask a pro to install an efficient drainage system that prevents rainwater and melting snow from pooling on or under your driveway. This will prolong the lifespan of your driveway and ensure it remains safe and usable for years to come.
In general, it’s best to repair cracks and other damages in your driveway as soon as they occur rather than waiting until they’re major problems that warrant replacement. If your driveway is nearing the end of its lifespan, however, it’s probably time to consider replacing it with a newer, more resilient material like asphalt or concrete.
The determining factors in this regard include the condition of your existing driveway, the length of time you want it to last, and your budget. Keep in mind that you’ll likely have to pay extra for installation and maintenance when working with a different type of material than your old one. In addition, some local laws and HOA rules may mandate a specific installation method, so be sure to follow these requirements.
Maintenance
A driveway can add a lot of value to your home and is one of the most visible features on the property. It also provides a safe place for pedestrians and vehicles. Unfortunately, driveways can become damaged from everyday use, snowplows, and other elements. If a homeowner notices that their driveway has cracks, holes, or is missing chunks, it’s important to take action. These issues aren’t just unsightly; they can also be a safety hazard. In addition, if left untreated, they can lead to costly repair bills or even foundation damage.
The type of material used in the driveway is a major factor in the cost of repairs. Concrete and asphalt are the most common types of driveways, and each has its own pros and cons. For example, asphalt is an affordable option, but it can crack and pit over time. Concrete is more expensive, but it lasts much longer and can withstand heavy traffic. The size and location of the driveway are another significant factor. A long, narrow, or sloped driveway will be more difficult to repair than a short, wide, or flat driveway. In addition, a driveway that is close to landscaping, lawns, or other plantings will require special attention to avoid damaging the surrounding growth.
Depending on the condition of your driveway, you may be able to save money by repairing surface damage rather than replacing it completely. A new top layer can improve the look of your driveway, but it won’t fix problems with the foundation or drainage. If you have a foundation problem, it’s best to replace your driveway completely.
It’s a good idea to hire a professional for driveway repair, especially for large cracks and holes. Homeowners can fill small cracks with inexpensive crack filler from a hardware store, but large cracks need to be professionally repaired before they get worse. It’s also important to regularly sweep and power wash your driveway to remove dirt and debris that can cause damage over time. In addition, homeowners should avoid the use of salt and chemical de-icers, which can corrode the surface of their driveway. Instead, try clearing a two- to three-inch strip around the driveway to allow water and snow to run off rather than onto it. You can also use alternatives like sand, coffee grounds, alfalfa meal, or kitty litter to melt ice.
Budget
The cost of replacing a driveway can vary significantly, depending on the type of material chosen. It is also important to consider any extra work that may be necessary for installation, such as grading and site prep, which can add to the overall project price. It is also a good idea to shop around and compare different contractors’ prices. Choosing the right materials will also help limit future maintenance costs and keep the project on budget.
The average concrete driveway replacement costs $6 to $16 per square foot. Some options, like adding a heating system underneath to melt snow and ice, can drive this cost up significantly.
Asphalt is the most affordable option for driveway replacement, but it requires regular maintenance. This includes regular resealing, which should be done every 3-5 years. It helps to fill minor cracks and prevent new ones from forming. If you have a significant number of asphalt cracks, it may be time to consider resurfacing. Resurfacing involves covering the existing asphalt with a layer of new asphalt and can cost $1–3 per square foot.
Brick driveways are a more traditional and stately option, but they can be expensive to repair. They are prone to spalling, which is the breaking of thin layers from freeze-thaw cycles and exposure to de-icing chemicals. The repairs can include removing damaged bricks, repairing the underlying sand base, and replacing any weeds and roots that have grown up in between the bricks.
It is a good idea to choose a contractor who is experienced in installing a wide variety of materials. This will ensure that they are familiar with the best techniques and procedures for your specific driveway material. It is also a good idea to get a few quotes from different contractors, as they may offer competitive pricing and have different schedules for payments.
The best way to save money on a driveway replacement is to stay on top of routine maintenance projects. This includes promptly repairing small cracks and regularly sealing the driveway to prevent further damage. It is also a good idea to avoid using chemical de-icing products and instead use sand or other natural materials that will not harm the driveway surface.
