Replacing a Driveway – A Short Guide

We get a lot of questions about driveway replacement and when it should be done. Many homeowners are unsure of the signs they need to be looking for that would lead a homeowner to make this decision. We thought it would be helpful to create a short guide so you understand what might be happening to your driveway, how to prevent further damage, and why damage occurs, to begin with. Bookmark this page for future reference.

 Should you replace your driveway?

Let’s look at various signs of damage that would lead you to pick up the phone and call the professionals to replace your driveway. 

1. Weathering – When your driveway is first installed, it tends to look clean and brilliant in color and visual appeal. Over time, your driveway is subject to environmental factors that quickly change its appearance. Things like UV sun damage will create a weathered look. That might result in a lighter color for asphalt driveways or a rougher look for concrete. A weathered driveway is usually the first sign that the asphalt or concrete is beginning to deteriorate. We suggest keeping an eye on it so you can patch it or replace sections before having to do a full replacement.
2. Small Potholes or Sinkholes – Just like the city streets that you travel on every day, your driveway is susceptible to potholes from everyday wear and tear. These holes typically need quick attention since they tend to spread at a rapid rate. Some of these potholes can turn into small sinkholes that will be more susceptible to weather. For example, rainwater will get into a pothole and wash out the dirt and rock underneath your driveway. This will create a sinkhole that will leave quite a dent in your driveway. Sometimes these can be repaired, but if they get too bad, you will want the driveway to be replaced. Repairing these problems will only delay the inevitable cost.
3. Cracks – Another sign that your driveway needs replacement services, is when a significant amount of cracks consume the space. Cracks tend to grow quickly and impact your entire driveway, making it more susceptible to water and freezing temperatures. Where potholes tend to be one-off problems, cracks (big or small) tend to consume in the entire driveway if not corrected early on. If you’re experiencing a lot of cracks in your driveway, let us take a look at it to see if a replacement is the right call.
4. Pooling Water – When you notice puddles and pooling water in your driveway, unfortunately, this is a sign of underlying deterioration. For example, with sinkholes, but pooling water may only show you where the valleys are underneath the driveway where sediment and dirt have washed away. In most cases, this type of problem will require your driveway to be replaced, as trying to correct this issue is like chasing a wild animal.
5. Peaks + Valleys – Have you noticed any undulations on your driveway that create peaks and valleys? As temperatures shift from cold to hot, and back to cold again, asphalt and concrete may buckle with the expansion and contraction of the material. This buckling also happens when there is heavy machinery used on the driveway in a repeated form, such as your car, truck, or SUV. Like the pooling water scenario, this problem usually results in a full replacement of your driveway, so you’re not dealing with never-ending problems that have no Solutions. 

What to do if you need your driveway replaced

Full driveway Replacements are a job left for professionals. For those who have asphalt driveways, you can typically seal those every few years yourself. However, with the problems described above, replacing a driveway is not an easy do-it-yourself task.

You’ll want to contact a reputable driveway replacement company (we would be happy to help you if you choose us) and make sure they have a few key features in their business. Here a couple of things to look for in a reputable driveway replacement company:

• Licensed + Insured – Be sure to find out if the company you choose is licensed and insured in your state. Many companies choose to forego these business steps so they can operate at a more affordable price point. Sadly, you have little recourse with companies who are not licensed and insured. 
• Labor Warranties – Another great feature of an upstanding business is to ask if the company has a labor warranty. A warranty will give you more confidence in the work a company will provide you in the event that the failure of your driveway is a result of poor workmanship.
• Testimonials – Take a look at a company’s website and online testimonials. For example, Google reviews. Research to see what other people in your area say about the business. It’s always helpful to get feedback from people who have already used their services, so you know what you’re getting into. 

We hope this short guide has given you some insight as to what to look for in driveway replacement. We know it’s not easy to make a decision or an investment like this, but we hope you consider asking us to help you in your next driveway replacement project. If you have any questions, we encourage you to contact us today; we are here to help.