As a homeowner, you probably know how much your driveway to and from your home contributes to the overall look and functionality of your property. Over time, wear and tear from weather, heavy vehicles, and daily use can leave it looking less than ideal. So, when should you tackle issues yourself, and when is it time to call in a professional? This guide is here to help you navigate the world of issues and determine when it’s time to bring in the experts.
Why Your Driveway Matters
Before we get into the signs that your surface needs professional attention, let’s talk about why it’s worth keeping an eye on its condition. Beyond just being a place to park your car, the surface is a vital part of your home’s curb appeal and safety.
A well-maintained surface can:
- Improve accessibility: Cracks and uneven surfaces can be a safety hazard, causing trips, falls, and potential vehicle damage.
- Enhance your property value: A well-kept surface can boost your home’s appearance, making it more appealing to buyers if you’re looking to sell.
- Increase longevity: Regular maintenance helps your surface last longer, saving you money by delaying the need for a full replacement.
Now, let’s dive into the most common signs that suggest it might be time to call in a professional.
1. Visible Cracks in the Surface
It’s normal for small cracks to appear in your surface over time, especially with the extremes in weather that places like Virginia experience. But when those cracks start to grow or multiply, it’s a clear indication that it needs attention.
Why You Should Call a Pro
While you can fill in small cracks yourself using DIY crack fillers, larger cracks or those that are spreading quickly need a more thorough fix. Cracks often indicate deeper issues, like shifting foundations or improper drainage, that won’t be solved with a quick patch job.
A professional will assess the situation and offer solutions such as:
- Resurfacing: If cracks are widespread, resurfacing can provide a fresh, smooth layer of asphalt or concrete to cover the old, cracked surface.
- Full replacement: In some cases, when cracks have compromised the structure too much, a full replacement might be necessary.
2. Potholes or Depressions
Potholes are not only unsightly—they’re a serious safety concern. They can cause damage to vehicles, create dangerous walking conditions, and worsen over time.
Why You Should Call a Pro
Potholes form when water seeps into cracks, freezes, and causes the surface to break apart. While small potholes can sometimes be patched, larger ones require a more comprehensive solution.
Here’s why it’s better to call in an expert:
- Proper compaction: Repairing a pothole requires compacting the base material to prevent the issue from recurring. Professionals know how to handle this step correctly.
- Durability: A well-done repair will not only fill the hole but ensure that the surrounding area remains intact and can withstand future traffic.
Repairing a pothole involves removing the damaged area, filling it with new material, compacting it, and sealing the surface to prevent future erosion.
3. Water Pooling or Drainage Issues
Good drainage is key to maintaining its integrity. If water isn’t draining properly, it can cause cracking, erosion, and even structural damage.
Why You Should Call a Pro
If you notice water collecting in certain areas, or if it’s flowing toward your home’s foundation, it’s time to call in the pros. Drainage problems are often the result of improper grading or aging materials, and they can lead to serious damage if not corrected.
A professional will be able to:
- Assess the slope: It should slope away from your house, ensuring water drains properly. A professional can regrade the surface to restore proper flow.
- Install drainage systems: If regrading isn’t enough, experts can install a French drain or surface drains to redirect water and prevent future issues.
4. Fading or Severe Cracking
It’s normal for asphalt to fade over time due to sun exposure and wear. However, if fading is combined with severe cracking or surface erosion, this could indicate deeper issues.
Why You Should Call a Pro
When cracks become large or deep, or when the surface begins to erode significantly, patching isn’t enough. Professional help is required to restore its integrity and appearance.
A professional contractor can:
- Seal the surface: If it is still structurally sound but showing signs of wear, sealcoating can protect it from the elements and restore its look.
- Resurface or repave: For more significant damage, resurfacing or repaving might be the best solution. This process involves removing the damaged layer and applying a fresh surface to restore both function and aesthetic appeal.
5. Alligator Cracking (or Spalling)
Alligator cracking, which looks like the skin of an alligator, is a common issue. This condition happens when the surface starts to break down into interconnected cracks, often due to traffic, poor installation, or moisture infiltration.
Why You Should Call a Pro
Alligator cracking is often a sign that the base layer has become unstable. This kind of damage is typically too extensive for a DIY fix, and a professional is needed to assess the situation.
Professionals will often:
- Remove the damaged area: They’ll take out the cracked surface and replace it with new material.
- Fix underlying issues: Often, this type of cracking is caused by problems with the base layer, such as poor installation or drainage issues. A contractor will identify and fix these issues to ensure it doesn’t continue to degrade.
6. Uneven Surfaces or Settling
Over time, surfaces can shift or settle, especially in areas that experience freezing and thawing. An uneven surface not only looks bad but can also cause accidents and vehicle damage.
Why You Should Call a Pro
If it is noticeably uneven or has sagging areas, this could mean the sub-base beneath the surface is unstable. Fixing this requires excavation and regrading, tasks that are best handled by professionals.
A professional contractor will:
- Regrade the surface: The surface needs to be even and properly sloped to ensure good drainage and prevent pooling water. Professionals will regrade it to achieve the right slope.
- Compact the base: Properly compacting the sub-base is crucial to ensure it remains stable and doesn’t settle again after repairs.
7. Stains and Oil Spots
While stains from oil, grease, or other chemicals might seem like minor cosmetic issues, they can degrade the surface if not dealt with properly.
Why You Should Call a Pro
If DIY cleaning methods aren’t working, or if it has significant staining or discoloration, it’s time to call in a professional. A contractor will have the equipment and products needed to clean it thoroughly and restore its appearance.
Professional contractors can:
- Use pressure washing: High-powered pressure washers can remove stubborn stains without causing further damage to the surface.
- Apply sealant: After cleaning, sealcoating will provide a layer of protection, helping prevent future stains and damage from oils and other chemicals.
8. Old Age and Extensive Damage
Finally, no matter how well you take care of it, it will eventually reach the end of its useful life. Asphalt typically lasts 20 to 30 years, while concrete can last up to 50 years with proper maintenance.
Why You Should Call a Pro
If it’s showing extensive signs of wear or its structural integrity is compromised beyond simple repairs, it may be time for a full replacement. A professional will assess whether resurfacing is an option or if a complete replacement is necessary.
A professional contractor will:
- Evaluate the condition: They’ll determine if it can be resurfaced to extend its life or if replacing it is the best course of action.
- Remove and replace: In cases of extreme damage, replacing it might be the most cost-effective and long-lasting solution.
Conclusion: When Should You Call a Pro?
In general, if it shows signs of significant damage—whether from large cracks, potholes, drainage issues, or uneven surfaces—it’s time to call a professional. While some minor maintenance tasks can be handled by homeowners, larger problems are best left to the experts who can ensure the job is done right the first time.
Investing in professional maintenance not only restores the look and functionality but also saves you money in the long run by preventing further damage. So, if you’re unsure about whether it’s time to call in the experts, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional to get an assessment and help keep your driveway in great condition!
