If your driveway has extensive damage such as deep cracks and a sunken section, it may be time to hire a professional. A contractor can use resurfacing or dig out patching methods to repair asphalt that has failed or is showing signs of failing.
Proper maintenance can extend the life of your driveway and delay the need for extensive repairs or replacement. Cleaning and sealing your driveway regularly can help protect it from weathering and aging. Contact Driveway Repair Charleston for professional help.
Cracks in a driveway may not seem like a big deal at first, but they can eventually cause the surface to crumble. As a result, it is important to repair the cracks as soon as they appear to prevent further damage. If you catch the problem early and address it right away, your driveway can last longer before needing resurfacing.
Small cracks, also known as hairline cracks, are common and usually do not indicate any structural problems with your concrete driveway. These cracks may be caused by shrinkage, minor settlement or other natural factors. Hairline cracks should be repaired as soon as they appear to avoid water seepage that can weaken the concrete and eventually lead to further damage.
If you have a few very fine surface cracks, they can be filled with a bottle of concrete crack filler or liquid sealant. Just follow the directions on the product you choose to ensure a good seal. You can find this at your local hardware store. You will want to clean the cracks of any plants or debris and hose them down before applying the product. It is important to do the crack repair work in warm weather so that the sealant will set quickly.
Cracks that are wider than a quarter inch should be filled with a foam pre-caulking rod, such as Quikrete 3/4-inch Backer Rod (available at The Home Depot), before applying the concrete crack repair sealant. The rod will support the sealant and help it keep its shape. You will then apply the concrete crack repair sealant to the rod and then smooth it out. This will help the sealant to bond with the concrete and stop it from coming loose in the future.
Separated control joints are another common issue with older concrete driveways. These joints are usually set every 8′ to 10′ and help to prevent the driveway from heaving and sinking. Over time, however, they can widen and separate from each other. The resulting gaps detract from the appearance of the driveway and can allow soil and debris to enter the cracks. These cracks should be filled with a flexible concrete joint sealant, such as Quikrete’s Advanced Polymer Self-Leveling Sealant, to help minimize their appearance and prevent further damage.
Repairing Large Cracks
Every driveway experiences wear and tear from usage and from the elements. Some cracking is inevitable, especially in older homes with settling concrete. However, when cracks get larger, they can indicate structural problems that require professional assessment and specialized repairs. Cracks that are wider than a quarter inch should be considered a serious problem and repaired as soon as possible to prevent further damage and potentially costly replacement of your driveway.
First, the cracks need to be cleaned thoroughly to remove any dirt or debris that could clog the repair materials. A broom, power sweeper, or pressure washer can be used to clean the area around and in the cracks. It’s important to wear proper safety gear when working with cement, including protective gloves and eyewear.
Next, you need to prepare the cracks for patching. This involves removing any grass or weeds that have grown in and around the cracks. You can pull weeds by hand or use a tool such as a screwdriver to uproot them. Once the area is free of any weeds, you can use a high-powered pressure washer to rinse away any dirt that has settled in or near the cracks.
Then, you need to measure the length and depth of the cracks in inches or centimeters. This will help you determine what materials you will need to purchase to properly repair them.
For hairline cracks, a liquid concrete or asphalt filler can be used to fill the cracks and seal them. Choose a product that comes with a primer or concrete bonding adhesive to ensure a strong bond with the existing surface and prevent the cracks from widening over time. Once the product is applied, use a pointing trowel or similar tool to push the material into the cracks. It’s also a good idea to use a paintbrush to work the product into the cracks, and remember that the primer can stain, so it’s important to avoid getting it on any adjacent surfaces.
For bigger cracks, you’ll need to chisel away the surrounding concrete around the crack and chip it down to a level with the driveway surface. This will make it easier to apply the repair materials and ensure that they adhere well. You can use a masonry chisel and hammer, or you can buy special pavement repair tubing that allows you to simply insert the tube into the cracks and heat it up with a torch.
Replacing Your Driveway
Your driveway can affect the curb appeal of your home as well as the resale value. If you’re looking for ways to improve the appearance and function of your driveway, you may consider resurfacing or replacing it altogether. It’s important to choose a professional contractor for either option. A qualified contractor can properly assess your driveway’s condition and recommend the best repairs. In addition, a professional can make sure the repairs are completed correctly, which will protect your investment.
While resurfacing or patching are good options for minor cracks and surface damage, they can’t repair structural damage, such as potholes, which will require replacing your entire driveway. Also, repeated repairs can add up and could be more expensive in the long run than a full replacement.
A spongy or soft area on your driveway might indicate poor compaction or inadequate base material. If the underlying layers are not strong enough, your driveway will sink or sag over time, which will cause the surface to crack and crumble. Poor drainage is another sign that it’s time to replace your driveway. If water pools on your driveway, it can cause puddles that trap moisture and lead to further problems with your paved surface.
If you’re in the market for a new driveway, it is crucial to choose high-quality materials. Using subpar materials will decrease the lifespan of your new driveway and result in costly repairs sooner than it should. When choosing a professional, ask about the materials they use and request photos of their previous work to ensure you’re getting a quality installation.
A concrete or asphalt driveway is a great choice for most homes, as they are durable and complement any style of house. While they will need regular maintenance, they can last 15 or more years. Investing in regular maintenance, including cleaning and sealing, can help prolong the life of your driveway.
Having a driveway is an asset that can add to the overall look of your property and increase its resale value. To keep your driveway in top shape, regularly inspect it for signs of damage and repair them promptly.
Hiring a Contractor
Driveway repair can be a DIY job, but hiring a professional contractor ensures quality results and helps you avoid the potential pitfalls. A good contractor will be able to explain the process, answer any questions and provide you with a written estimate that includes all costs and details. You should also ask about their experience and portfolio of previous work. A legitimate contractor will be happy to provide references and will have insurance and liability coverage in case of any accidents or damage.
When selecting a contractor for a driveway resurfacing, repair or replacement project, it is important to interview several candidates and get quotes from multiple companies. Make sure you compare prices, materials and warranties. Look for online reviews and call client references. A reputable contractor will have an excellent customer service record and provide a warranty on their work.
Concrete and asphalt repairs can be very complex and require specialized equipment and techniques. Attempting to do the job yourself could result in poor workmanship and costly mistakes. Proper maintenance and timely repairs can extend the life of your driveway and prevent the need for a total replacement.
In addition to repairing cracks and replacing damaged areas, a reputable contractor will be able to assess the condition of your driveway subgrade and recommend corrective measures. This can significantly extend the lifespan of your driveway.
Before starting the project, the contractor should inspect your driveway for any signs of leaking or water seepage. If they notice any issues, they will be able to resolve them before starting the actual construction. This will save you money and time down the road. In addition, a reputable contractor will take care of all cleanup and remove all equipment from your property after the work is done.