Concrete is the most durable option for rebuilding a driveway. It can last up to 15 years if properly maintained.
Asphalt is more prone to cracking, making it a less desirable choice for long-term use. However, it can be patched and resurfaced. However, if you want some professional help, you can consult Driveway Replacement Colorado Springs.
Repairing surface damage like cracks and discoloration is usually more cost-effective than replacing your driveway. However, major damage may indicate a structural problem that requires replacement.
Whether you choose asphalt or concrete for your driveway, durability is an important consideration. Both materials withstand heavy traffic loads and hold up well in most climates, but there are some differences that may affect your decision to repair or replace your driveway.
Asphalt is less expensive than concrete, but it has a shorter lifespan and is more susceptible to cracking. Repairing minor damage to asphalt can help extend its life, but you will likely need to replace it sooner than if you chose concrete.
Cracks are the biggest sign that it’s time to consider a replacement. If left untreated, they can widen under the weight of vehicles and allow water that freezes to penetrate the surface and erode or shift the base material beneath the driveway. Concrete and asphalt can both be repaired with crack filler, which is typically available at home improvement stores and costs between $10 and $15 per bottle. However, larger cracks or holes suggest there is extensive damage beneath the surface, and a complete replacement may be more cost-effective in the long run.
If you have asphalt that is moderately damaged, a concrete overlay may be the right solution. This process involves pouring a thin layer of new concrete over the existing surface and can include decorative elements such as stamping or coloring. This is a great choice for homeowners who want to avoid the cost of replacing their entire driveway and still enjoy a newer appearance.
If your driveway is experiencing major structural issues such as heaving or shifting, it’s best to replace it instead of attempting to repair it. Replacing the entire driveway can add up to 15 years to its lifespan and can be a more cost-effective solution than repairing or resurfacing an older driveway. If you’re considering a driveway replacement, it’s important to talk with a trusted concrete professional about the type of damage and how much it will cost to repair or replace it. This will help you determine which option is best for your budget and lifestyle.
Style
When it comes to curb appeal, your driveway makes a statement about you and your home. Whether you’re hosting friends, family, or neighbors, your driveway will attract their attention before they even step foot inside your door.
When you’re ready to repair or replace your existing driveway, it’s important to consider the aesthetic as well as the durability of your chosen materials. Having some knowledge ahead of time can help you make the right decision for your needs and save you money in the long run. From what type of material is best for your climate to how a professional finishes concrete, we’ve tapped Micetich and Courtney Harmon to share their expert tips and advice.
A smooth finish provides an elegant, sleek look that’s easy on cars. However, it doesn’t offer much in terms of traction and can be slippery when wet. Adding a salt finish to your concrete creates a speckled texture that adds subtle traction and can be a budget-friendly option. To achieve this look, coarse salt is spread and rolled into fresh concrete to create an indentation-filled surface.
Curb Appeal
A smooth, silky-smooth concrete driveway isn’t just a convenience; it’s a big part of your home’s curb appeal. Real estate agents agree that a well-maintained driveway is one of the top ways to boost resale value.
If your concrete driveway has cracks, pits, or other damage, it’s a major detraction from your home’s beauty and value. But it’s often possible to repair these issues cost-effectively without undergoing an expensive, extensive replacement.
For minor problems like a few moderate cracks, resurfacing is an economical choice. It can add 10 to 15 years to the lifespan of your asphalt or concrete driveway, and it’s a great way to refresh its appearance.
When you’re comparing options for driveway replacement, it’s important to choose a professional who will use quality materials and adhere to building codes. Otherwise, your investment will only last a fraction of its expected life span.
A reputable local contractor will know the proper installation methods for your area’s climate and soil type. They can also help you design a driveway style that complements your home’s architectural style and neighborhood. For example, concrete stained in rich earth-tone colors and stamped to resemble natural stone lends rustic charm to ranch, farmhouse, or country home styles, while contemporary homes benefit from a modern paver design.
It’s easy to forget about the little things that make your home stand out from the rest, like the front walkway and mailbox. But these overlooked features can have a dramatic impact on your home’s curb appeal and even its resale value.
For instance, a shabby or unattractive mailbox will draw unwanted attention from passersby. A spruced-up box, on the other hand, will catch passersby’s eyes and add to your property’s overall curb appeal.
Other simple, low-cost improvements that can make a big difference include adding flower beds around your mailbox and house numbers or a coordinating paver walkway to the front door. You can even highlight your front walk with strategically placed lighting to illuminate your home in the evening and showcase its beauty in photos for listing online.
Maintenance
Concrete is a durable material for driveways, but it will eventually wear down. Over time, the heavy weight of vehicles, weather conditions, and oil leaks can crack, fissure, and discolor the surface. Stains, holes, and divots may also develop as a result of failing drainage, tree roots, or soil erosion. Repairing these problems and replacing the driveway surface will improve its appearance and help prolong its lifespan.
A new driveway surface will require less maintenance than a worn-out one, and you’ll have more options for color, texture, and finishes. In addition, a concrete or asphalt replacement is generally more cost-effective than repairing existing damage and can add 10 to 15 years to its life span.
For a typical concrete driveway, repair costs typically fall between $10 and $20 per square foot if cracks are limited to less than a quarter inch wide. However, large cracks will only serve as a band-aid that will likely need to be repaired again and again unless they are addressed from the root. This is because cracked surfaces allow water into the base, which erodes the underlying materials, which in turn causes freezing temperatures to cause further damage.
Repairing or resurfacing an asphalt driveway can cost between $1,000 and $3,700 per square foot. This price range includes patching cracks ($0.50 to $3 per square foot), filling divots and holes ($3 to $5 per square foot), and resurfacing ($1 to $4 per square foot). A professional contractor can also strip an asphalt driveway without removing the base at a cost of $4 to $10 per square foot.
When repairing or resurfacing your driveway, be sure to schedule the project when the temperature will be warm enough for hot asphalt work. It isn’t practical or advisable to do extensive asphalt work in cold weather, as the material needs to be warm to bond properly and cure completely.
As with any home improvement project, it’s important to choose a reputable contractor to ensure the highest quality of workmanship and materials. Using subpar materials will only shorten the lifespan of your driveway and detract from its curb appeal. Micetich recommends asking your pro for a list of materials and photos from previous jobs to ensure you’re getting the best value for your money.
