No matter where you live or what kind of home you own, the winter season can take a toll on your driveway. The constant cycle of freezing and thawing out can crack even the most robust of surfaces, and the cold weather does not exactly make ongoing driveway maintenance easy.
Now that the weather has finally broken and the days are getting warmer, it’s time to check the integrity of your driveway. From tiny hairpin cracks to large gaping holes, these imperfections in the surface can shorten the life of your driveway and speed the day when you will be spending thousands of dollars to put things right. If you want to put off that day, and its associated expenses, as long as possible, summer is the perfect time to do some timely maintenance. Here are 8 tips to extend the life of your driveway and keep it in great shape all season long.
- Clean your driveway regularly. Simply keeping your driveway clean can extend its life and prevent bigger problems. Something as simple as a weekly hosing in good weather can make a world of difference.
- Maintain your car. Oil leaks and dripping automotive fluids will seep into the surface of the driveway and damage its structural integrity. Check your automotive fluids regularly, fix leaks promptly and protect your driveway.
- Patch small cracks quickly, before they have a chance to spread. That hairline crack may not seem like much now, but if left unattended, it will quickly spread.
- Remove stains promptly. Check your driveway for stains and areas of discoloration every day, and clean up stains as quickly as possible.
- Apply sealant seasonally or as needed. Applying fresh sealant to your driveway can extend its life and keep it in great shape all year long. You should apply sealant once a season, and seal cracks and other imperfections promptly.
- Do not leave heavy vehicles parked in the driveway. Heavy construction trucks and other large vehicles can damage the driveway, so move them out of the way as quickly as possible.
- Check for weeds and kill them promptly. That tiny weed could turn into a big problem later, so deal with weeds as soon as you see them.
- Use your power washer carefully. A good power washing can remove stains and make your driveway look like new, but use the equipment with care.
Your driveway is more than a place to park your car; it is an integral part of your home's curb appeal. If you want to keep your driveway looking its best, you need to care for it properly. The 8 maintenance tips above are a good place to start!
