5 Quick Tips About Driveway Replacements in 2022
As a homeowner, one of the most important decisions you will make is whether or not to replace your driveway. There are many factors to consider when making this decision, such as cost and the time it will take to complete the project. In this blog post, we will discuss 5 quick tips that will help you make the best decision for your home!
Indicators That You Should Resurface Your Driveway
Your driveway is one of the first things people notice about your home. It’s also one of the most used surfaces on your property, which means it can take a beating over time. If you’re thinking about resurfacing your driveway, there are a few key indicators that it may be time for an upgrade.
One of the most obvious signs that you need to resurface your driveway is cracks and potholes. While small cracks are normal and can usually be filled with sealant, large cracks or craters in your pavement are cause for concern. These bigger problems can become trip hazards, damage vehicles, or allow water to seep through and freeze, causing further dama
Another sign that your driveway may need to be resurfaced is if the surface is starting to wear down or fade. This can be caused by weathering, sunlight, or chemicals like oil and gasoline. If you notice your pavement looking dull or worn, it may be time for a fresh layer.
Indicators That You Should Replace Your Driveway
Replacing your driveway is a significant financial investment since it will cost more than repairs or resurfacing. In addition, replacing a concrete driveway is more expensive than replacing an asphalt driveway. Here are some indicators that your driveway needs to be replaced:
- Cracks: Small cracks are normal and can usually be repaired. But, if the cracks are more than a quarter-inch wide or if they’re deep, then it’s time for a new driveway.
- Potholes: Like cracks, potholes are also an indication that your driveway needs to be replaced. If potholes are left unrepaired, they will only get bigger and will cause more damage to your vehicle.
- The Surface is Uneven: If the surface of your driveway is uneven, then it needs to be replaced. An uneven surface can cause your car to bottom out or be scraped.
- Drainage Problem: If your driveway doesn’t have proper drainage, then water will pool on the surface and can cause cracking and potholing. Improper drainage can also lead to foundation problems for your home.
- The Driveway is Shrinking: If you notice that your driveway is shrinking, then it’s time for a new one. This is usually caused by poor-quality concrete or improper installation.
- Your Driveway is More Than 20 Years Old: Even if there are no cracks or potholes, if your driveway is more than 20 years old, then it’s time for a new one. As driveways age, they become more brittle and will start to show signs of wear and tear.
Tips For A Cost-Effective Driveway Replacement
Once you’ve decided that your driveway has to be replaced, you should start planning ahead. The following suggestions can assist you in managing the project’s costs:
1. Make a budget
The first step is to come up with an estimate of how much you’re willing and able to spend. This budget should include the cost of materials, as well as any necessary permits or fees. You should also set aside money for any unexpected expenses that may come up during the project.
2. Select the appropriate material
There are a variety of materials you can choose from for your driveway replacement. Some materials, such as concrete, are more expensive than others. However, you should also consider the long-term costs of each material. For example, asphalt may be cheaper upfront, but it will require more maintenance over time.
Some other factors to keep in mind when choosing a material include:
- How long do you plan on staying in your current home
- The climate in your area
- The appearance you want to achieve
3. Choose A Suitable Design
Once you’ve selected a material, you’ll need to decide on a design. The design of your driveway will impact the overall cost of the project. If you want a complex or custom design, it will likely be more expensive than a basic one.
You should also consider how the design will impact the function of your driveway. For example, if you live in an area with heavy snowfall, you’ll need to make sure that your driveway can accommodate a snowplow.
Some other factors to keep in mind when choosing a design include:
- The size and shape of your property
- Any existing features that need to be taken into account (e.g., trees, bushes)
- Your personal preferences
4. Go For An Easy-To-Maintain Option
Once you’ve selected a material and design, you should also consider the maintenance requirements of your driveway. Some materials, such as concrete, require less maintenance than others.
You should also think about how easy the driveway will be to clean. If you have a busy household, you’ll want to choose a material that can easily be cleaned and is resistant to stains.
5. Hire A Reputable Contractor
Once you’ve considered all of the above factors, you should start looking for a reputable contractor to do the job. Make sure to get multiple quotes and compare them based on price and experience.
You should also ask for references from each contractor and follow up with those references to see if they’re satisfied with the work that was done.
Replacing your driveway can seem like a daunting task, but with the right tips, it can be a breeze. Follow our advice on what to look for when deciding if you should resurface or replace your driveway, and you’ll be well on your way to a new surface that looks great and lasts for years. Give Spaulding Concrete a call today and they would be happy to help get started!
Are You Looking For A Company To Replace Your Concrete Driveway?
Spaulding Concrete has been the SF Bay Area’s top concrete contractor for Driveway Replacements, Additions & Extensions for over 30 years. The qualified concrete experts at Spaulding Concrete will be on schedule, on budget, and meet or exceed standards by careful planning, professional execution, and strict quality control. We have the specialized equipment, services, and professional experience that you need to make permanent improvements to your driveway. To get you started on the right foot, we would be happy to give you a free quote! When you reach out by phone or email we will have one of our driveway repair and installation experts answer any questions you have. Successful concrete projects require careful planning and thorough preparation. The qualified concrete experts at Spaulding Concrete will be on schedule, on budget, and meet or exceed standards by careful planning, professional execution, and strict quality control.
To schedule your free quote, contact us today! We are proud to serve Orinda, Lafayette, Moraga, Pleasant Hill, Concord, Martinez, Pittsburg, Antioch, Brentwood, and the surrounding areas.
