Your driveway takes a beating from regular use and the elements. When cracks and other damage appear, it’s time for some Driveway Repair Charles Town WV.
Small hairline cracks are common and can be repaired with a liquid concrete filler purchased at home improvement stores. Deep cracks or fractures that go through the surface may need to be filled with a more robust material like asphalt.
You step out onto your driveway to grab the morning paper, the birds are singing, the sun is shining and all is well – until you trip over that dreaded pothole or crack. Driveway cracks and potholes aren’t just a nuisance, they can be hazardous to drivers and passengers as they cause tires to slip and lose traction and can even damage the underside of your vehicle. It’s best to have professional driveway contractors address potholes and cracks as they occur rather than waiting for them to get worse.
Asphalt driveway cracks can be filled with a commercial grade asphalt patching mix or cold-patch asphalt, which contains a polymer adhesive for long-lasting repair. For shallow cracks, simply clean the area of loose dirt and debris with a broom or leaf blower, then fill the cracks to within 1/4 inch of the surface using a rubber mallet, putty knife or trowel. Apply a sealcoat to help protect the asphalt from further weathering.
Deeper, more widespread cracks require a little more work to address. If they have an alligator skin appearance resembling the pattern of scales, a crack filler product with a built-in polymer works well. This material can be applied to the cracked area and smoothed with a trowel or putty knife, then allowed to dry per the manufacturer’s instructions.
If you have a sunken area in your driveway, it’s important to inspect after every rainstorm for any depressions. These may be a sign of water seepage that erodes the foundation of your driveway and can freeze and expand in winter, further damaging the pavement. Top up any sunken areas with an asphalt filler or cold-patch asphalt and tamp down the surface with a handheld metal tamper to compact the patch.
Over time, your beautiful asphalt driveway can begin to fade as the sun’s UV rays penetrate and oxidize the surface. If you notice that your driveway has lost its original luster, it’s probably time for a resurfacing or seal coating. A professional can determine the cause of the fading and recommend a course of action that will restore your driveway to its former glory.
Worn Surface
Over time, your driveway takes on a lot of stress from vehicles and foot traffic. This constant pressure causes the surface to wear down and eventually crack, chip and spall. While a few minor scratches and chips are inevitable, extensive damage can be prevented by regularly resurfacing your driveway with a concrete or asphalt sealer.
A well-maintained driveway is a big asset for your home, helping to keep it in good condition and increase its curb appeal. However, just like other areas of your home, your driveway will need to be repaired from time to time to address any issues caused by normal use or environmental conditions.
Luckily, repairing and maintaining your driveway is usually a fairly simple process. If you notice cracks or potholes, these can often be repaired with a cold-pour crackfill mixture. A sand-based mix typically works best for smaller cracks, while a standard concrete mix with gravel may be used for larger or deeper areas.
When resurfacing your driveway, it is important to first clean the area to be repaired. This can be done with a wire brush or by using a high-powered pressure washer to remove dirt, debris and other contaminants from the area. You will also want to be sure that any areas with cracks are completely dry before resurfacing to ensure the new material adheres properly.
If your driveway is showing signs of major structural damage, it may be necessary to replace the entire surface. This is generally a job that is better left to a professional paving contractor, as it will likely require excavating the existing driveway and replacing it with fresh materials.
For many homeowners, a driveway serves as an entryway to their homes and is a key element of the overall aesthetic. If your driveway has become damaged, it can detract from the overall look of your property and create a safety hazard for vehicles and pedestrians. By addressing any damaged areas as soon as possible, you can avoid costly repairs in the future and preserve the life of your driveway.
If you have any questions about resurfacing or repairing your driveway, our team of experts is always happy to help. You can contact us here. We also offer comprehensive Cinch home protection plans to help cover the repair costs for built-in home systems and appliances, such as your laundry room appliances or garbage disposal.
Poor Drainage
When a driveway is built, it’s important to account for slope and drainage solutions. When these haven’t been properly done, water can pool on the surface, causing damage over time. As rainwater pools, it wears away at the asphalt and the dirt underneath, leaving a rough texture and a potential tripping hazard. This can also lead to cracking, which can cause further problems.
Another problem caused by poor drainage is the growth of moss, mildew, and algae. These organisms grow on the wet surface, and they can discolour the driveway and create an unsightly mess. In some cases, these organisms can even eat through the asphalt and damage the foundation of the driveway.
Poor drainage can also lead to puddles that pool around the edges of the driveway. This can wash away soil and mulch, and it can also cause dampness in the walls of your home. Puddles in your driveway can also be a safety hazard for children and elderly people.
One of the best ways to fix drainage issues is by adding a drain system to your driveway. This can be done by digging trench drains to redirect water flow away from the driveway, or by using a channel drain. Channel drains are long grated drains that can be installed at the bottom of sloped driveways to catch the rainwater. These drains can be hidden with a decorative grate or can be buried in the ground to be less noticeable.
Another option is to dig landscaping swales. These are shallow channels with plants that store and redirect water. These can be designed to be inconspicuous and are easy to hide with plants and gravel.
If you’re experiencing drainage issues, it’s important to act quickly. Waiting too long could mean your driveway will need to be replaced. If you’re unsure about how to solve your drainage issues, contact us for a consultation. We can help you with the right solution to ensure your driveway lasts for years to come.