A driveway is a crucial component of your property that will enhance its curb appeal and increase its resale value. When you’re ready to upgrade your driveway, it’s important to consider all available options. The type of material you choose for your new driveway can significantly impact its cost and lifespan. Before you begin, ensure it fits your budget and needs correctly.
As you can see, a driveway that has been properly maintained and cared for will last you for many years to come. Paving Company Charleston SC will also enhance your property’s curb appeal and increase its safety for you and your family. You don’t need to spend much money on maintenance, but it is essential to do so as soon as possible to avoid costly repairs. A hard-surface driveway like concrete or asphalt should be built on a slight gradient that allows rainwater to drain away rather than collect. This helps prevent erosion and puddle formation.
You can install a swale at the end of your driveway or along the sides for flat properties prone to drainage problems. This subtle option is not only attractive, but it can also help keep your landscaping looking fresh and healthy. To build a swale, dig a U-shaped ditch in your yard where the water runs off. Make sure it has a slight slope of around three inches per ten feet and line it with gravel to protect your landscape from erosion.
For areas that are too steep to use a swale, you can install French drain pipes alongside your driveway. These pipes can direct water away from your home using small holes on the top. These can be covered with a metal grate to help prevent debris from clogging the pipe.
Whether you have an old concrete driveway or want to make your new patio look unique, stains can change the entire look of your outdoor space. The right stain can create a rich, earth-tone color that makes a statement while still remaining durable and easy to maintain.
Choose a water-based solid color or an acid-based chemical stain to achieve the desired look. Both have their benefits and drawbacks, but either will give your concrete the colors you’re looking for.
Before you can start staining, the concrete must be clean and free of any contaminants that will prevent the stain from soaking into the pores of the concrete. This includes grease, oil, paint, waxes, sealers and anything else that could cause the stain to sit on top of the concrete instead of soaking into it.
Once your concrete is ready to be stained, you can purchase the stain you need at a home and garden store or a paint store. Be sure to order extra stain so that you have enough to get a good coverage.
Sealing your driveway or parking lot provides a barrier to protect it from damaging elements like water, salts, and road chemicals. It also extends the life of asphalt and prevents deterioration.
Depending on the type of pavement you have, your driveway will need to be cleaned and patched before it can receive a coat of sealer. This will ensure that the liquid coating adheres properly to the surface and reaches the underlying asphalt.
First, remove all grass overhanging the edges of the pavement. Next, sweep the surface to remove any dirt or debris. Finally, flush oil and gas stains with detergent made specifically for your type of driveway.
Once all stains have been removed, apply an oil spot primer to any spots that still contain oil. Then, using a squeegee, spray the liquid sealer over the entire surface. Allow it to dry before applying a second coat if needed. This is a quick process and will help the asphalt stay healthy for longer.
One of the most important things you can do for your driveway is to keep it clean. It is a porous surface and any dirt or oil left on it will eventually cause damage and staining.
In addition to regular cleaning, you should also inspect your driveway and take care of minor cracks and potholes. Leaving these cracks unfilled is another opportunity for pavement deterioration and increases the likelihood of larger repair bills down the road.
Keeping your asphalt driveway free of debris is also a good idea. Small rocks or leaves can chip or tear away at the asphalt, causing a lot of wear and tear.
