Your driveway is probably not something you spend much time looking at. You might be curious about the source of cracks, potholes, and other signs of wear and tear.
There are many things that can cause damage to your driveway, such as motor oil, gas, freezing temperatures, and vehicle weight. Continue reading to find out how to distinguish between minor problems that can be fixed and major issues that may require a new driveway.
How long does a driveway last?
While many factors affect the life expectancy of a driveway, it is most strongly determined by its material.
How long can a concrete driveway last for?
Concrete driveways can last up to 30 years if they are properly maintained and installed. Concrete driveways that are located in colder climates may be less durable, but they should still last for approximately 20 years.
How long can an asphalt driveway last?
Asphalt driveways last between 15 to 20 years. Regular maintenance can prolong the asphalt driveway’s life.
6 Signs Your Driveway Needs Repairs
Are you unsure how to determine if your driveway needs repairs? You may notice changes in your driveway and need to plan for replacement, patching, or resurfacing.
If your driveway is damaged, you should consider repairs.
- Small cracks that don’t connectCracks less than 1/4 inch in width should be repaired before spreading. Cracks that are deeper than 1/4 inch wide can become more serious if water freezes or expands within them.
- A pothole One pothole can be fixed quickly and can help prevent future damage.
- Sunken areas If the driveway is below your garage floor, it can be patched and made level again.
- Faded color: Don’t be alarmed if your driveway has changed in color. This is normal and acceptable. Concrete driveways can be repaired by filling cracks with a sealant.
- Crumbling edges Crumbling asphalt driveway edges means that the edges are too thin. To prevent further damage, consider adding more edging.
- Wear signs but less than 10 years old: Your driveway should last at most 15 years. If your driveway is less than 10 years old, cracking or sagging are signs that it needs repairs.
If the damage to your driveway is not too severe, covers less than half of the surface, and the repairs are possible to preserve the integrity of the driveway in its entirety, then you should consider repairing it.
Resurfacing is an option if your driveway’s top needs to be repaired but the foundation remains intact. Resurfacing involves replacing the asphalt or concrete top layer, rather than tearing it apart or patching up small areas. Resurfacing will improve the look of your driveway and will not cost as much as a complete replacement.
Asphalt driveways are more popular, but resurfacing can also be done on concrete driveways.
What is the cost of resurfacing a driveway?
Resurfacing a driveway, also known as repave, costs between $1-$3 per square foot. Although this is cheaper than replacing, it will still cost more than fixing individual cracks or potholes. The cost applies to your entire driveway.
This post was written by Tanner Brown. Tanner is the Owner and operator of Greenbar Excavation. Greenbar Excavation is a fully licensed, insured, and accredited Excavation company based in Prineville, Oregon. Greenbar Excavation is one of the top Excavation companies in Central Oregon. Don’t look further, go with the company with your best interest in mind!