Concrete Contractors Lincoln, NEWHEN SHOULD I REPLACE MY DRIVEWAY in Lincoln, NE Concrete Contractors, Lincoln, Nebraska Even if you have a beautiful home, a deteriorating driveway can detract from its curb appeal. Although driveways can last for decades, they will need to be replaced at some point. Check out these indicators to help you determine when it's time to replace your driveway in Lincoln, NE and how to identify the best local concrete contractors. 1. Cracks Have you noticed cracks forming in your driveway? This is a common problem that develops over time in both concrete and asphalt surfaces. In many cases, oil, gas, de-icing salt, and other harmful substances seep through the driveway surface and aggravate the cracks. If you live in an area that experiences freezing temperatures during the winter, water will likely seep into the cracks and expand once frozen. While small cracks can be repaired, unusually long, wide, or deep cracks indicate more serious damage. Because larger cracks cannot be repaired, it is best to get a complete driveway replacement in these cases (or attempts at repairs will last only a short time). If you decide to patch your driveway first, keep in mind that the repaired areas will most likely be much darker than the surrounding pavement, which isn't ideal for your home's curb appeal. 2. Potholes While a crack is unsightly, a pothole can be dangerous to your vehicle. Going over a hole in the driveway on a daily basis is bound to be punishing on your tires and suspension system. When the ground beneath the driveway expands and contracts, these large holes form. The driveway material on top begins to deteriorate over time, and pieces eventually crack or crumble away to form a pothole. Minor potholes, like cracks, are frequently repairable. However, even filling a pothole does not solve the problem of the ground below contracting and expanding, so the pothole is likely to reappear at some point. Replacing your driveway, especially if it is old, can be a great solution. Newer materials are designed to withstand these issues better than older materials used in driveways decades ago. 3. Drainage Problems Water will not have much of an impact on your driveway if it is in good condition. However, if your driveway has drainage issues, it can cause serious damage. Water will often run down the middle of an uneven or sloped driveway or pool in one or more areas. This can weaken the driveway in areas where water tends to gravitate, resulting in an increase in the number of cracks and potholes. A driveway drainage problem can be fixed in a variety of ways. Adding curbing or inlets can sometimes help direct water away from the driveway. However, in order to repair the damage that has already been done, you may need to completely replace your driveway before adding these features. 4. Rough Appearance Fading from UV ray exposure is a common problem with home driveways. These rays penetrate the driveway surface, oxidizing it and gradually fading the color. If your driveway is beginning to deteriorate, you should think about replacing it. Though the issue appears to be cosmetic, UV exposure can weaken the driveway. To repair the fading, you could try applying concrete or asphalt sealant, which can help to restore the driveway's original appearance. However, if the driveway's durability has been affected, it is best to replace it entirely. 5. Lack of Resealing Do you have a concrete or asphalt driveway? If this is the case, it is crucial to know that it should be resealed every two to three years. This helps in the prevention of breaking and cracking, especially around the edges. If you haven't kept up with this regular maintenance schedule, the cracks in your driveway may be too severe to repair. As a result, a complete replacement will be required instead. 6. Past its Prime Let's be honest: Your driveway may be too old at times. It's unavoidable; most asphalt driveways, for example, are only expected to last about 15-20 years. If your driveway has reached the end of its lifespan, you may be experiencing a combination of the issues listed above. Cracks, potholes, and fading are unavoidable after years of exposure to harsh weather, UV rays, damaging chemicals, and daily use. Repairs are also less likely to be effective at this point. A new driveway can solve your problems quickly and completely. You won't waste time or money patching a driveway that has simply reached the end of its useful life. Options for Driveway Replacement Are you beginning to suspect that you may require a new driveway? Don't worry; it's not as difficult as it sounds. You'll hire professionals to do the work, and depending on the type of driveway you choose; you might not have to replace it for decades. Here are a few options to consider: • Asphalt driveway: This is the least expensive type of driveway to install. It is also less prone to cracking. However, the look isn't as appealing to some homeowners, and it's only meant to last about 20 years. • Concrete driveway: A concrete driveway is twice as expensive to install as an asphalt driveway, but it can last up to 50 years if properly maintained. Concrete is also very rigid, so if you live somewhere where there is a lot of freezing and thawing, cracks will form eventually. • Paver driveway: A driveway made of pavers or cobblestones looks luxurious, but it comes at a high price: It is usually at least twice as expensive as concrete. This option provides a more customized look for your driveway, and because it is made of individual pavers, it is simple to replace any pavers that break or crack over time. However, the spaces between the pavers can encourage the growth of weeds, grass, and moss on the driveway. A new driveway can refresh the look of your Lincoln, NE home while also providing a more practical solution for your family. Using the above-mentioned signs, you can determine when it is time to replace your driveway. |
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