Guide to Driveway Repair and Replacement

Guide to Driveway Repair and Replacement

Do you want to repair or replace your driveway and don't know where to start? Here is everything you need to know about driveway repair and replacement.

Your driveway is the entrance to your home, ensuring its maintenance is vital. Not only should you maintain your driveway for aesthetic purposes, but it will also increase property value. 

All homeowners may run into common issues from wear and tear, but this doesn't mean you will need to replace the entire driveway. Most of the time, all you need are some repair techniques to keep up with any small cracks. Ensure you keep an eye on any cracks because they can turn into large ones that can require complete replacement. 

There are several types of driveways and repair methods, so it is crucial to understand their differences. The most popular types are concrete and asphalt, which can be more expensive but also the most durable. 

Whether you are buying your first home or building your own, you shouldn't overlook the driveway. In this guide, we will go over the most common driveway issues, types of driveways, and the repair methods. 

Keep reading to learn everything about driveway replacement and repair. 

1. Most Common Issues with Driveways

Most homeowners will experience some type of issue with their driveway, whether this be from normal wear and tear or weather conditions.

Cracks

Cracks are the most common driveway issue and one of the easiest to repair. Cracks can appear along the edge of the pavement, mostly due to thermal expansion and contraction. Crack size can be minor or as large as the length of the driveway. It is important to keep an eye on cracks, no matter their size, because they can worsen over time and lead to significant issues. 

Pitting 

Pitting, also known as spalling, is when small holes appear on a driveway surface, causing it to look uneven and worn. This deterioration occurs when exposure to freeze-thaw cycles or the use of de-icing salts during the colder months. If you live in a colder climate or mountain town, be careful when applying de-icing salts to avoid damaging your driveway. 

Broken Edges

Broken edges on concrete driveways occur due to heavy traffic, weather conditions, or accidental damage. Similarly to cracks, these can be minor but can lead to larger issues. It is always best to repair the damage before it becomes a significant problem. 

2. Factors That Impact Your Driveway

Just like any other part of your home, there are several factors that will impact the health of your driveway. Being aware of what can damage your driveway is crucial to prevent severe damage.

Weather Conditions

Weather is the most common factor that can affect driveway conditions. Your driveway and exterior of the home are constantly exposed to all types of weather conditions, including moisture, hail, extreme temperatures, ice, and snow.

It is crucial to consider your local weather when choosing a paving material. Freezing and thawing cycles can especially impact driveways, causing cracks and expansion. 

Vehicles

While driveways are made for heavy vehicles, they can still put stress on the materials. Which causes faster wear and tear, which is hard to prevent; there are still ways to maintain the material. 

Soil Conditions

The soil beneath the driveway has to support the weight exerted on the concrete. Unstable soil can lead to issues such as uneven settling and cracks. If you live in a dryer climate, soil can shrink, leading to pockets of empty space where the driveway isn't supported.  

3. Types of Paving Material

Before replacing your driveway, ensure you understand what types of paving materials are available to you. Remember that all three types of material will increase home value and curb appeal. 

Concrete Driveway

According to HomeLight, concrete is the most popular paving material. It is extremely durable and low-maintenance. It offers a clean and modern look that will last up to 100 years. Additionally, concrete can withstand extreme weather, which is perfect for various climates. 

While concrete is long-lasting, it can crack over time, especially in colder climates. However, this can be avoided if you give it the proper care. Concrete driveways are highly customizable but can be more expensive to repair. 

Asphalt Driveway

Asphalt driveways are another popular choice among homeowners. Asphalt is a better option for cold climates and is easier to repair when needed. Additionally, asphalt has limited customization options, so if you want a simple driveway, this is the better option.

Asphalt is known for its smooth and blacktop surface. It is cheaper and quicker to install. However, it does require regular maintenance. While deciding between the two, ensure that extra maintenance is accounted for, which includes resealing every few years. 

Brick Driveway

Brick driveways offer a beautiful and timeless look. They are easily customizable with various patterns and colors and will most impact home value. Brick is a strong material, but it is the most expensive to install and maintain. 

Cost of paving materials, sourced from HomeGuide:

Factor	Brick Driveway	Asphalt Driveway	Concrete Driveway
Average cost per square foot installed	$10 - $30 per square foot	$3 - $7 per square foot	$4 - $8 per square foot
Average total cost (1-car driveway)	$5,500 and $14,400	$600 - $2,000	$800 - $2,300
Average total Cost (2-car driveway)	$8,500 and $17,000	$1,200 - $4,000	$1,600 - $6,400

4. When to Repair or Replace

When deciding between repairing and replacing a driveway, there are certain signs to look out for. The biggest are large cracks, potholes, loose edges, and significant unevenness. Your driveway needs to be replaced if there are extensive cracking, deep potholes, and drainage issues.

A simple repair might be enough if the driveway has minor cracks and damages. Before anything, consult with a professional contractor who can give you the best recommendations. 

Some isolated cracks can be easily sealed; however, if they turn into "alligator cracks," they may need to be completely replaced. Alligator cracking is a network of interconnected cracks, which will turn into a large problem. 

Another sign that your driveway needs to be replaced is standing water. If you notice water pools on your driveway, then there is likely a drainage problem that should be taken care of immediately. 

The average time to replace a driveway depends on its conditions and the type of driveway. Concrete has the longest life if it is properly installed and maintained. On average, a concrete driveway can last over 30 years. An asphalt driveway can last anywhere between 15 and 30 years, and a brick driveway lasts 25 years or more. 

Keep in mind that this also depends on how well-maintained the driveway is. If you want to increase your driveway life, ensure you maintain it well. 

5. Maintaining Your Driveway

Maintaining your driveway is one of the most important factors if you want a long-lasting driveway. There are several ways to maintain the driveway on your own without the help of a professional.

Depending on your area's climate, you may need to watch out for puddling after rainstorms. When water sits and freezes, it can cause depressions in your pavement. Luckily, any depressions can be fixed with a cold patch and sealed with a seal coat. 

If you have asphalt pavement, watch for weeds growing from cracks. These cracks have to be cleaned and filled to prevent further damage. 

Here are some steps to follow to keep your pavement in top shape:

1. Keep the surface clean.

Before anything, you should sweep or powerwash away any debris. You'll need a clean surface before fixing any driveway damage. Ensure that the driveway is dry after pressure washing.

2. Fill any cracks.

Cracks can be repaired with several different materials, depending on their size. For cracks half an inch wide or smaller, use a crack fill liquid sealer. If the crack is bigger than half an inch wide, then use a rubberized crack filler with a crack fill melter. Both of these can be bought at your local store and done without the help of a professional. 

3. Repair damage.

Once you have filled any cracks, if you still have potholes, ensure they are filled. After cleaning the edges of a pothole, you can pour in a bag of asphalt patches. Ensure the product fills the entire hole and is tightly packed. Next, cover the area with plywood, oiled side down, and drive over the area with your car to condense down the crack filler or asphalt patch. 

4. Seal

Sealing the cracked surface will provide a layer of protection from further damage. Stir the sealers until the consistency is thick, and pour it over the surface. 

Methodology

We used information and data from several different sources, as well as our own data, to determine everything you need to know about driveway repair and replacement. Most of the data was sourced from the following sources:

• HomeLight
• HomeGuide

FAQ: Driveway Repair and Replacement

Here are some commonly asked questions about driveway repair and replacements.

Is it better to resurface or replace a driveway?

Depending on how damaged your driveway is, it may be better to resurface. Resurfacing is the best option if over 25% of the surface is moderately damaged. Replacing the driveway is only necessary if it has large potholes or cracks wider than 1/4 inch. 

What is the cheapest driveway repair?

Gravel is the least expensive driveway to repair, costing approximately $1.25 to $1.80 per square foot. The most expensive are asphalt and concrete, which cost anywhere between $3 and $15 per square foot for repair. 

How do I calculate the cost of a new driveway?

When calculating how much to set aside for a new driveway, factor in the cost of labor, materials, and the size of the driveway. 

What is the best material to redo a driveway?

Concrete is the best driveway material; although it is more expensive, it is the most durable of all paving surfaces. Additionally, concrete will last much longer than any other paving surface. 

What type of driveway adds the most value?

A paved driveway will add the most value to your home. Paved driveways are also highly functional and aesthetically pleasing. 

Driveway Repair and Replacement - The Bottom Line

Fixing a driveway is more than ensuring it looks good; it is about preserving its function and longevity. As a homeowner, there are enough things to think about, and you don't need any extra stress.

Ensure the driveway is properly installed the first time and maintained throughout its life to save you money and time. Before buying a new home, ensure the driveway is in good condition during the inspection.  

Just like any other part of your home, you should take pride in your driveway and expect it to be durable. Depending on its condition, it may require some extra care and attention, but the effort will definitely pay off.

As you search for your next home, Raleigh, NC, is one of the fastest growing areas in the country, with many stunning neighborhoods to choose from. Feel free to contact one of our helpful real estate specialists, as they are eager to help you find the perfect location. We know that investing can be overwhelming, but a real estate agent can walk you through the entire process.