5 Tips for Keeping Your Driveway Maintained

As one of the most used areas of a property, driveways unfortunately tend to be overlooked when it comes to home maintenance, that is until they crack or stain. To prevent problems further down the line, it’s important that you give attention to your driveway, and ensure that any repairs are made quickly.

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Caring for your driveway can not only extend its life, but help make sure it looks attractive to visitors and potential homebuyers. Whether you’ve recently moved into a new home, or you’re looking to sell your current property, here are a few key tips on how to maintain your driveway.

Prevent Cracks

Cracks in a driveway can become a real nuisance, so taking preventive measures can help stop cracks from forming in the first place. Sealing concrete on an annual basis - and asphalt every couple of years - can help stop water from penetrating, cracking, and freezing. Shrub and tree roots can also produce cracks by pressing up from underneath the surface. To rectify this, you will need to get rid of trees that are near drives.

Fill Cracks

If you notice holes or cracks in your driveway, it’s important that you patch them straight away. Make sure that you have a masonry chisel on hand, which will clear away loose materials. After you have done this, you can apply your crack filler and patching compound. Once the compound has dried, make sure that you seal the driveway entirely. Having a driveway that is level and smooth will also minimize the risk of any tripping accidents when visitors come to your property.

Minimize Water

If you live in an area that’s prone to flooding, winter storms, and hurricanes, the last thing you want is for water and snow to penetrate your driveway. To reduce the risk of slips and falls, clearing a 2 to 3-inch strip around your driveway’s edges will give a runoff area for water and snow.

Plow Carefully

When snow hits your driveway, the last thing you want is for it to cause lasting damage to your driveway. When using a snowplow, make sure that you raise the blade enough to make sure that it does not scrape and cause damage to your driveway’s surface. If you choose to shovel, it’s advised to opt for a plastic shovel which can be used on uneven surfaces, as this will reduce the risk of it catching on your driveway.

Install a New Driveway

If your driveway is beyond repair and you want to start afresh, it may be time to install a new one. Companies like Richfield Blacktop are specialists when it comes to laying down asphalt and concrete driveways, as well as commercial paving. For those who are looking to move, investing in a new driveway can help make the exterior of your home stand out for all the right reasons.

How your driveway looks can be the make or break when it comes to selling a property. The last thing you want is for cracks and stains to damage your driveway. Making use of all the tips listed can help ensure your driveway is well maintained.