Repairing or resurfacing your driveway can address surface-level cracks, discoloration, and other damage. This can also be a cheaper option than replacing the entire structure.
However, some problems may mean it’s time to consider Driveway Replacement Colorado Springs. If the damage is extensive, a new surface will probably last longer and provide more curb appeal.
Cracks in driveways are very common, especially in areas that experience freezing and thawing cycles on a regular basis. They are most often caused by water that seeps below the surface, expands when it freezes, and then contracts during the thawing process. The resulting stress can cause the concrete to crack on the surface.
Fortunately, if you catch the cracks before they get too big, they are relatively easy to repair. The key is to fix the cracks before they cause more serious damage, which can include tripping hazards, loss of strength and stability, erosion of the underlying soil, and structural damage to your home.
The easiest cracks to repair are those that don’t extend too far and do not have a protruding edge. These can be filled with a concrete sealant that is designed for outdoor use and is flexible enough to adapt to temperature changes. Before applying the crack filler, make sure that the affected area is clean and dry. Hose the area and apply a thin layer of environmentally safe detergent with a brush or push broom. You will need to hose the area again and use a shop vacuum to remove any remaining dirt from the cracks that you are planning on filling. It is important that the cracks be filled before the weather gets too cold.
If you have larger cracks in your driveway, first widen them with a hammer and chisel in areas that are less than a hairline. This will help the filler bond with the concrete. It is also a good idea to apply a primer or additive before you start repairing the cracks. This will help create a strong bond and ensure that the repair lasts.
For cracks wider than 2″, you may need to do a more extensive repair. You will need to shovel packaged cold-patch blacktop into the hole and then iron rake it to level the patch. If the hole is deep, you will need to cut a backer rod (similar in size and shape to a pool noodle). Insert the backer rod at least 1/2″ below the surface of the crack. Next, fill the hole with cement caulk. Be sure to clean your tools thoroughly with warm soapy water after using them.
Potholes
Potholes are probably the most obvious sign of a driveway or parking lot that needs repair. They make driving a real pain, not only because you can’t avoid hitting them but also because they can damage your car. Hitting a pothole can lead to a cracked windshield, broken headlights, or even tire damage. Potholes should be repaired as soon as they are found to protect your car and the cars of others who use your driveway.
The first thing you need to do to prepare for a pothole repair is thoroughly clean the area around the hole. This is important so that any dust, dirt, or debris doesn’t get mixed into the patching materials. You should also dig down into the holes and remove any loose material from the sides of the hole, making sure the edges are firm and straight.
A quick fix for potholes is to shovel gravel into the holes and tap it down. However, this leaves the area less solid than the rest of the driveway and will often result in another pothole forming elsewhere. A better option is to fill the potholes with coarse gravel to a depth of about three inches below the driveway surface. This can be done with a commercial tamper or a homemade substitute, such as nailing a piece of plywood to the bottom of a four-foot-long 2×4.
After you’ve filled in the potholes, it’s time to add some asphalt patches. Before you apply the patch, you should wet it with water to help it adhere to the existing asphalt and prevent it from blowing away during the hot weather.
Once the patch is in place, tamp it down using your tamper or your hands. You want the new surface to be as compact as possible so that it’s not easily displaced by traffic driving over it.
If you have a gravel driveway, you might need to repeat the process of adding and tamping down the surface several times to ensure the surface is durable and stable. Depending on the size of your driveway, you may need to hire professionals to help with the repairs.
Aesthetics
While the driveway is often seen as a practical landscaping feature that offers functionality and easy access to the vehicle, homeowners with a discerning sense of aesthetics know that it can also serve as a standout style element. Whether you’re looking to revamp your whole driveway or just a few patches, there are a few things that you should keep in mind when designing your dream driveway.
Aesthetics are important, but it’s equally crucial to make sure your driveway has a sound structural foundation. Large cracks or holes, shifting soil, and even problems during the initial installation can result in damage that is beyond repair and may require a full replacement. It’s essential to have a professional do an inspection before making any major changes or repairs.
If you are thinking of replacing your driveway, be sure to do your research to find the right professionals. A quality installer will not only be able to give you the new driveway of your dreams, but they will also help ensure that it is durable and low-maintenance for years to come. A reputable contractor will also have references from previous customers to provide you with peace of mind.
When it comes to aesthetics, the type of material you choose will play a major role. Asphalt is a popular choice because it’s affordable and works well in most climates. However, it can be difficult to maintain because the surface is prone to chipping and cracking.
For those who want a more durable option, pavers are a great choice. They offer a more natural, rustic look and are easy to maintain. However, they can be more expensive than asphalt and are prone to sinking in certain areas.
It’s also important to consider if your property has any trees that could affect the durability of your driveway. Roots can wreak havoc on concrete and asphalt, creating divots, holes, and cracks. In addition, they can affect the tensile strength of the surface.
To avoid any future issues, it’s a good idea to get rid of any obstructing tree roots before they cause damage. Additionally, if you have any trees that are in danger of falling over and damaging your driveway, it’s best to remove them before they fall.
Drainage
Drainage problems can be a significant problem for homeowners. Especially in areas with high rainfall, driveways that don’t adequately drain can become saturated and create standing water. This can lead to the development of cracks and other surface damage over time. In addition, standing water around your home can cause mold and mildew, which may impact indoor air quality. The best way to prevent this is by having a driveway drain installed.
This is a great solution if your driveway is sloped towards the house or garage entrance, which causes water to build up in low spots during heavy rainstorms. This may also allow water to flow down your foundation and into the basement, causing expensive damage. A trench drain is a good option for these situations, as it helps keep the water away from the foundation.
Driveway drainage solutions can be simple or more complex, depending on your needs and the structure of your property. If your home is sited lower than the street level, a trench drain or channel drain may be used to divert stormwater to an existing drainage system.
These drains are usually made of PVC pipe with a grate on top to keep the water in. These grates can come in a variety of styles and materials and are often customized to fit the design of your home. In addition, these drains can be locked down to prevent them from being displaced or rattling during traffic.
Another drainage solution is a swale, which is a small depression in the landscape that’s sloped toward the driveway. This allows the water to collect in the swale and slowly percolate back into the ground instead of flowing onto the driveway.
If your driveway has major cracking, discoloration, or spalling, it might be necessary to have a full replacement done. This is a more costly solution, but it will last much longer than patching or resurfacing.