When Should You Consider a Driveway Replacement?

If you’re like most people, your driveway is one of the first things that you see when you pull up to your house. It’s also one of the first things that guests see when they visit. That’s why it’s so important to make sure that your driveway looks good! If it’s starting to look a little bit worn down, then it might be time for a replacement. In this article, we will discuss some of the signs that indicate that it’s time for a new driveway. We’ll also provide tips on how to choose the right replacement driveway for your home.

How Long Do Driveways Last?

The lifespan of a driveway depends on several factors, including the materials used, the amount of traffic it receives, and how well it’s maintained. A properly installed and maintained asphalt driveway can last anywhere from 20 to 30 years. Meanwhile, a concrete driveway will last even longer, with a lifespan of 30 to 40 years.

Of course, these are just averages. Your driveway could last much longer or need to be replaced sooner depending on the aforementioned factors. When it comes to maintaining your driveway, there are a few key things you can do to extend its lifespan:

  • Sealcoat every few years.
  • Repair cracks and holes as soon as they appear.
  • Keep it clean by sweeping and removing debris on a regular basis.

Signs Your Driveway Needs Repairs


Do you know how to detect if your driveway needs to be repaired? If you see changes in your driveway, you may need to consider replacing, fixing, or resurfacing it.

If your driveway has any of the following:

  • Small cracks that don’t connect:

These usually don’t require immediate attention and can be fixed with a sealant.

  • A pothole:

Potholes are caused by water seeping into the cracks of your driveway and freezing. When the water expands, it causes the cracks to get bigger and turn into a pothole. Potholes can be fixed with cold patches or hot asphalt.

  • Sunken areas: 

Sunken areas are usually caused by the base or subbase eroding. This can be fixed by adding more gravel to the area and compacting it.

  • Faded color:

The color of your driveway can fade over time. This is caused by the sun and weathering. You can resurface your driveway to make it look new again.

  • Crumbling edges:

If the edges of your driveway are crumbling, it’s usually because the base is eroding. This can be fixed by adding more gravel to the area and compacting it.

  • Signs of wear but it’s less than 10 years old:

If your driveway is less than years old and you see signs of wear, it may be because the materials used were of poor quality. You can resurface your driveway to make it look new again.

Discovery Bay Side Driveway

Signs Your Driveway Needs To Be Replaced

Your driveway is an important part of your home. Not only does it provide a place to park your car, but it also adds to the curb appeal of your house. Because driveways see a lot of wear and tear, they eventually need to be replaced. But how do you know when it’s time for a new driveway? Here are signs that it’s time to replace your old driveway:

  • Multiple potholes:

Over time, small cracks in your driveway can turn into big potholes. If you have multiple potholes, it’s time to replace your driveway.

  • Alligator or spiderweb cracks:

Alligator or spiderweb cracks are small cracks that branch out from the main crack. These cracks are caused by weathering and wear and tear. If you have these kinds of cracks, it’s time to replace your driveway.

  • Aged more than 20 years:

Driveways typically last 20-25 years. If your driveway is older than that, it’s time to start thinking about replacing it.

  • Drainage issues:

If your driveway is constantly wet or has standing water, it’s a sign that there’s a drainage issue. When water seeps into the cracks of your driveway, it can cause the foundation to shift and crack. If you have drainage issues, it’s time to replace your driveway.

  • Multiple areas that require independent repairs:

If your driveway has multiple areas that need to be repaired, it’s a sign that the overall structure is failing. When one area of your driveway starts to fail, it puts stress on the other areas. This can cause even more damage and eventually lead to a complete failure of your driveway. If you have multiple areas that require independent repairs, it’s time to replace your driveway.

So, when should you consider a driveway replacement? If your driveway is older than 20 years and has started to crack or crumble, it’s time for a new one. Other signs that it might be time for a replacement are if the drainage system is failing and causing water accumulation or if there are large potholes on the surface. If you think it might be time for a new driveway, give Spaulding Concrete a call today. We would be happy to come to take a look and give you an estimate.

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.