How to Maintain Your Driveway

by Kevin Smith Author

You've always put tremendous effort into making your home look great. The walls are regularly cleaned. The glass windows are kept smooth and clear. What about your driveway? Cracked and crumbling? You might think that this is just a mundane part of the house, but it's an essential piece of your property's exterior.

It's important to give your driveway some attention to restore and maintain its pleasing appearance. After all, it's a major contributor to your home's curb appeal. Here are some ways to keep it in tip-top condition.

Fix the Imperfections

A driveway crack repair is simply necessary. It's not just because crumbling cement isn’t great to look at; it's also a safety hazard. A person might accidentally fall or trip due to the uneven surface. Patch them up as soon as possible. Start by clearing the loose pieces and debris using a chisel and a brush. After that, fill in the cracks using a sealant. There are several on the market, and the best part is that most of them are self-leveling.

Clean Leaks

When you notice oil or radiator fluid leaks from your vehicle on the driveway, clean them immediately. Car fluids can penetrate concrete and react up to a quarter inch, causing erosion from underneath. Cleaning leaks is as simple as using kitty litter, which easily absorbs fluids and other motor oils, followed by scrubbing with dish soap and warm water.

Prevent Mold Growth

Concrete takes in moisture, making it a hospitable environment for molds to flourish. Besides making your driveway look unsightly, they also make it slippery and cause accidents. Sealers can help repel water and prevent mold growth. They improve the durability of your pavement as well by preventing elements from penetrating the surface and damaging its base material.

Don't Use Chemicals

Snow piling up on the driveway is such a hassle. Most people just use deicers to thaw the ice. While this may be convenient, it doesn't do your pavement any good. They typically contain ammonium nitrate, which is particularly harmful to concrete as it chemically damages its surface. A better alternative is to use snow blowers or a normal shovel to get rid of the snow. Spreading sand is also great to gain traction for your tires.

Even if it's one of the most durable materials, concrete has its limits. Regularly clean, seal, and do a driveway crack repair to keep the path to your home in good condition.