5 Signs You Need to Repair or Replace Your Concrete Driveway

Keep your concrete driveway well-maintained and cared for.

Your concrete driveway is an essential part of your home which gives a place for your car, boosts the curb appeal of your property, and more. Not only that but concrete is a building material that is known for its longevity.

Despite that remarkable trait, nothing lasts forever. Time, weather, and varying temperatures can be detrimental to your driveway, damaging it in the long run. If left alone, it will harm the overall curb appeal of your home. It might also become a cause of accidents or bring damage to your property. When that happens, you might need to repair or replace your concrete driveway.

Here's how you'll know when to repair or replace your concrete driveway.

1. Crack Formations

Cracking is one of the most common things that can happen on concrete, whether it's concrete patios, driveways, or walkways. It's best not to ignore or turn a blind eye when cracks form. Small or minor cracks can be easily repaired. But if you see too many deep cracks on your concrete driveway, you should have them replaced before they worsen.

2. Severe Potholes and Chipped Off Pieces

Potholes and pieces of concrete chipping off your driveway's surface can be more hazardous than you think. For one, potholes are a menace to cars that can puncture and damage your tires and ruin their alignment. Not only does a chipped and pothole-filled driveway look unappealing, but it can also cause accidents when people trip over the rough surface. It's best to consider replacing your driveway to avoid accidents.

3. Areas Begin to Sink In

After a rainy day, you notice that your driveway is collecting rainwater. This means that your concrete driveway is starting to sink in some areas, specifically where the water is gathering. The uneven surface will make it hard to keep one's balance, which could cause falls and injuries. Depending on the severity of the hollow areas, you should be able to have your driveway fixed or change it entirely. Check it with your concrete contractor first if you need to patch it up or replace it altogether.

4. Little to No Resealing Done

Sealing your concrete is one of the ways you can maintain and keep it looking fresh and new. This helps reduce the risk of damage to your concrete driveway from breaking or cracking. Therefore, resealing your driveway is recommended every two or three years. But if sealing isn’t done regularly, your concrete driveway will be prone to cracks, potholes, sunken areas, and more.

5. It's Turning 30 Years Old or More

Concrete's most notable features are its durability and capability to last long. Unfortunately, lasting for a long time is not equivalent to forever. Therefore, there will come a time when your concrete driveway has to go. Usually, concrete is good for at least 10 years, but if it surpasses 20 and turns 30, it's time for you to let go and move on. If your driveway is that old, repairs won't be as effective anymore, and internal damages will worsen until it gives out. Don't wait for it to happen; invest in a new driveway once it's older than your thirty-year-old self.

How long your concrete driveway lasts will depend on the quality of the materials used in your concrete, exposure to the elements, the weight it's been carrying, and more. Despite the differences, these signs are universal. They are a surefire way to know when to repair or replace your concrete driveway.

Have you spotted one or two or all of the signs on your own driveway? Don't hesitate and give us a call. Our concrete contractors will assist you in restoring or replacing your driveway for you!