HOW TO ENSURE PROPER MAINTENANCE OF YOUR DRIVEWAY

The first thing you will notice as you pull up on to someone’s house is their driveway. What most people do not realize is that the driveway is one of the most used places in your homestead and should be in top-notch condition.

Most often than not, people will overlook their maintenance until they stain or even crack. In such circumstances, it is advisable to give them attention and attend to them quickly. This will not only give them a lustrous look but will also extend their life making them serve you for longer. In addition, making repairs as soon as they happen will prevent bigger damages helping you save on significant amounts of money.

On that note, below are a few things to practice so as to give your driveway, the proper care that it deserves.

  • Clean the driveway

Regular cleaning of the driveway is one of the most effective ways to ensure that it remains in good condition. Motor oil, radiator fluid and other similar substances will not only affect the appearance of your driveway but may penetrate into the concrete and soften asphalt.

In case of such spillages, the immediate cause of action would be to absorb the fresh oil with a non-clumping kitty litter then wash it using a grease-cutting detergent. Do not forget to use warm water.

For old stubborn stains, use biodegradable cleaners to repeatedly scrub off the stains. In cases where the damage is extensive, it is advisable to seek professional company in your area. For me that meant typing in driveway cleaning in Wilmslow to Google to see a list of local options.

  • Prevent cracks

The best way to prevent cracks on your driveway is to seal it annually with concrete and using asphalt as a sealant every couple of years. This prevents water penetration, freezing as well as cracking.

Another cause of cracks is shrub roots that push the driveway from underneath. The best remedy for this is to do away with trees near the driveway or make a point of trimming away their roots.

  • Repair cracks

In case you notice a small crack or hole, immediately fill them. Remove loose materials using a masonry chisel then apply a crack filler just after brushing out the debris. Ensure the driveway is level and smooth to avoid tripping accidents.

The above is not such a hard task but getting a professional is advisable for the clueless.

  • Limit the use of water on the driveway

Excessive amounts of water will seep into the driveway destroying it. It is advisable to dig a small strip on the edges of the driveway that will drain water especially during the rainy season and in winter. Make sure the excess water drains into the yard.

Other practices to ensure proper driveway maintenance include careful plowing around the driveway and parking your car away from the driveway’s edges. When plowing during the snowy weather, for instance, make sure the plow is raised high enough for it not to scrape the surface of your driveway causing unwanted damages.

All in all, taking care of your driveway is one of the ways of making the most out of your home. As earlier stated, it not only improves its physical appearance but also enhances durability. Make sure you perform a little routine maintenance from time to time in order to effectively protect your investment.