How to Tell if You Need a New Concrete Driveway
Wondering if it’s time to replace that old, cracked concrete driveway? Your local concrete contractor can help assess if a driveway replacement makes sense, but there are a few obvious signs to watch out for on your own. Keep reading to determine if you need to call your local concrete contractor for a new driveway installation.
Visible Cracks Across the Surface
If you begin noticing cracks that span sections of the concrete, it likely means it’s aging and sinking unevenly. Temperature changes cause expansion and contraction, making concrete more prone to cracking over time. Are the cracks growing larger or multiplying? Then a driveway replacement should be on your home improvement agenda for this year. Your trusted local concrete contractor has solutions for cracked driveways.
Sections That Are Raised or Sunken
Concrete driveways are supposed to be flat and stable. If you see raised bumps or sunken divots spanning large areas, it points to subgrading problems underneath. The ground below wasn’t compacted properly before pouring, which caused shifting and eventually uneven areas. A professional local concrete contractor inspects for root issues or poor drainage when pouring new, more durable concrete.
Stains That Can’t Be Removed
Oil leaks from your car, leaf stains, and rust should wash away. However, if you have discolorations that remain after aggressive cleaning, it means those stains have penetrated porous areas full of tiny holes and pits. Your local concrete contractor recommends preserving concrete with sealants that make staining less likely over time. According to Family Handyman, spring and summer, or any time the temperature is above 50 degrees Fahrenheit, are the best times to seal concrete surfaces. For existing stains that won’t fade, replacement is typically the most viable option.
Difficulty Parking Without Scraping
Pulling into your driveway shouldn’t require tricky maneuvering skills. If you’re scraping your undercarriage at certain angles, it’s not your parking skills that are the issue. Significant cracking, crumbling edges, and uneven spots make smooth entries and exits tricky. Have another driver watch your car’s path of travel next time you arrive home. Any noticeable scrapes or bumps mean your concrete is past its prime. Bringing in the pros for a new driveway installation is wise before further damaging your car.
Some homeowners wait years too long before calling a local concrete contractor for replacement concrete. If your driveway aesthetic looks noticeably flawed, that’s usually the first sign repairs won’t improve matters long-term. Trust your instincts if something feels off while walking or driving into your home. Call Professional Pavement Services today to obtain an estimate to install a new concrete driveway.
