The sun’s UV rays, oil spills, gas, salt and harsh chemicals can all contribute to damage on driveway surfaces. When this happens, it’s time for a coat of sealant.
Small cracks can quickly become bigger problems when left untreated. Water seeps into these cracks, freezes and expands, causing them to widen and deepen over time. Contact Driveway Repair Nashville for professional help.
The most common driveway issue is cracking, which can be cosmetic or structural. Hairline cracks are thin, surface-level cracks that don’t compromise the integrity of the concrete, but they can widen over time and allow moisture to seep in, which erodes the concrete and causes further damage. Deep cracks, on the other hand, are more serious and often indicate underlying issues that require more extensive repairs or replacement.
Repairing cracks promptly is a cost-effective alternative to full replacement and can save you from more expensive damages down the road. Using concrete fillers and patching compounds, you can seal the cracks, which prevents moisture infiltration and prolongs the lifespan of your driveway.
Before filling or patching a crack, thoroughly clean the area to remove debris and loose dirt. Wear safety gear like gloves, goggles, and a mask to protect yourself from dust and chemicals and work in a well-ventilated area to avoid inhaling fumes. Use a wire brush or chisel to remove any remaining dirt and old filler from the cracks. Once the crack is cleaned, prepare it for filling by mixing a standard concrete mix (with gravel) or dry concrete resurfacer with water to a thick consistency. A mixing paddle attached to a heavy-duty low-RPM drill makes quick work of this step.
For small cracks (less than 1/2 inch wide), apply a concrete or masonry crack elastomeric filler with a caulking gun. This filler creates a flexible seal that stops moisture from seeping in and extends the life of your driveway. For larger cracks, use a concrete patching compound that contains cement-based ingredients for added strength and durability.
Cracks that have formed due to soil movement or shifting can be a sign of an underlying issue with your driveway’s foundation and should be assessed by a professional. In addition to affecting the appearance and functionality of your driveway, these cracks can be hazardous for pedestrians and cars. They may snag or trip tires and can lead to uneven surfaces or potholes. A crack in your driveway can also invite water into the structure, causing further damage and leading to costly repairs down the line.
Potholes
Over time, heavy vehicles, severe weather and general wear and tear can cause craters to form in your driveway. These potholes are not only unsightly, but they also put you and your car at risk. The best way to reduce the dangers associated with them is to repair them as soon as possible.
Many property owners will try to fix their potholes by filling them with loose gravel. This method is not only slow, but it is also not a long-term solution. As soon as the fresh gravel gets wet, it shifts and breaks apart. As a result, the potholes are likely to reappear very quickly.
Another common way to repair a pothole is to dig up the existing gravel and replace it with new material. This is a much quicker and easier job, but it is still not an effective long-term solution. It is not uncommon for rain or a car to wash away the newly-placed material, causing the pothole to return.
If you choose to dig out and remove the existing gravel, you will need to have a good quality shovel. A shovel with a metal head is ideal, as it will break up the hardened material without damaging the surrounding pavement. You will also need a good quality paver compactor to compress the replacement material into place.
A rented compactor will be far faster and more efficient than an expensive self-drive model. You will also need a wheelbarrow to transport the equipment to and from the site.
Preventing Potholes
The first and best way to prevent potholes is to ensure that your existing pavement does not become worn down. Proper grading, adequate base materials and proper drainage are the most effective ways to keep your pavement in good condition.
If your pavement is already showing signs of wear, crack treatments and routine resurfacing are effective options. In addition, regular sweeping will help to prevent the buildup of fines and debris that can contribute to pavement damage. If your driveway is gravel, regularly re-grading the surface will maintain its shape and improve drainage. This will prevent water from pooling on the surface and eroding the subbase.
Sunken sections
A sunken concrete driveway is unsightly and can be a safety hazard. It’s important to keep an eye out for signs of sinking, including puddles that form in the same spots after rain. These are clues that the soil is shifting or sinking, which could lead to further damage and costly repairs down the road.
Sinking can occur for a variety of reasons, including poor soil compaction during the initial installation of the driveway, heavy loads being consistently placed on a particular section, and ground movement or natural settling. Additionally, the weight of parked vehicles and equipment can compact the soil underneath the concrete, causing it to sink over time. Winter’s freeze-thaw cycles can also cause the water trapped in ice to expand, putting additional pressure on the sinking concrete.
When you notice the first signs of a sinking driveway, it’s crucial to address it right away. The longer you wait, the worse the problem will become, resulting in more extensive damage and costlier repairs down the road.
There are several ways to fix a sunken driveway, including patching and replacing it completely. However, these options may not be suitable if the foundation of the concrete is failing. In these cases, a complete replacement is a better solution as it ensures that the new sections are built on a strong base and will not sink again.
To repair a sunken driveway, the most effective option is concrete lifting using polyurethane foam injections. This process is less invasive than full replacement and can be completed in a single day. It involves drilling holes through the concrete and injecting a mixture of polyurethane fill material that expands to lift the concrete back into place. This method is cost-effective and durable, providing long-lasting results.
There are several steps you can take to prevent your driveway from sinking, starting with ensuring that the underlying soil is properly compacted. In addition, it’s important to make sure that the slope of your driveway is properly designed so that water drains away from the foundation. Finally, regular inspections can help spot potential problems before they become serious and expensive to repair.
Rough edges
When the edges of your concrete driveway start to crumble, it’s a sign that it’s time for repair. Crumbling edges can cause serious structural problems and safety hazards if left unattended. Resurfacing can strengthen the edges and restore a clean, attractive look to your driveway.
Concrete driveways are susceptible to cracking due to shifting soil and freezing and thawing cycles. Small cracks can become more significant and may lead to potholes if not addressed. To fix a crack, start by cleaning the area and removing any debris or weeds. Then, choose a high-quality crack filler designed for asphalt or concrete. This can be found in liquid or tube form and is easy to apply with a putty knife or trowel. Once the filler has been applied, it should be tamped down or driven over with your car to help compact it. Then, seal the area to protect it from further damage.
Sinking areas or sunken sections are another major concern. These can occur when the soil shifts or erodes underneath the driveway, leading to uneven surfaces that compromise both safety and function. To raise these areas, mudjacking or a more advanced technique like foam injection can be used to lift the surface back to its original level.
Uneven surfaces are not only unsightly, they can also create tripping hazards and damage vehicles. Uneven concrete can be caused by many factors, including poor drainage and construction issues. Fortunately, resurfacing the concrete can eliminate these uneven areas and restore a smooth, even surface.
If you have a gravel driveway, installing edging helps keep the stones in place and reduces the chances of them migrating into your lawn or garden beds. Adding a border of bricks, pavers, or concrete can also add a decorative touch and define the space between your driveway and the adjacent landscaping.
Sometimes, it’s not about damage but a desire to update your driveway’s appearance. If your driveway is in good condition but just doesn’t suit the style of your home, resurfacing can provide a cost-effective solution to give your exterior a facelift.