When to Repair or Replace Your Driveway

Until an issue arises, you generally don't spend much time worrying about your driveway. If you notice cracks, potholes, or other signs of wear and tear, you may wonder where they originated from and how to fix them. Our Montgomery Driveway Repair Team can help you assess the extent of your driveway's damage and offer you solutions to fix and polish your driveway back to its new condition.

​Numerous factors, including motor oil or gas, de-icing agents, subfreezing temperatures, and the weight of your vehicle, can cause damage to your driveway. Continue reading to discover how to differentiate between minor problems that only need repair and indicators that your driveway may need to be replaced entirely.

What Is the Lifespan of a Driveway?

A driveway's lifespan is affected by climate and upkeep; however, the material mainly determines its longevity.

How Long Does an Asphalt Driveway Last?

A driveway made of asphalt will survive for 15 to 20 years. Regular upkeep will help an asphalt driveway last longer.

How Long Does a Concrete Driveway Last?

A concrete driveway should last roughly 30 years with proper installation and maintenance. Concrete driveways could deteriorate more quickly in regions with a colder temperature, but they should still last for around 20 years.

Six Clues that Your Driveway Needs Repairs

You may be unsure whether your driveway needs repair. It may be necessary to make arrangements for replacing, resurfacing, or patching your driveway if you start noticing changes.
 
Considering repairing your driveway if it has:
 
1. A pothole: If repaired promptly, you can quickly fix a single pothole while avoiding future damage
2. Minor cracks that don't connect: Smaller cracks that are less than 1/4 inch wide should be fixed as soon as possible to prevent them from worsening. If water freezes and expands in a fissure, the fissure will get deeper and larger, which will most likely lead to more issues down the road.
3. Sunken spots: You can level out any parts of your driveway that have sunk below the level of your garage by patching them up.
​4. Edges that are crumbling: If the edges of your asphalt driveway are crumbling, the edges were likely too thin to begin with. To avoid further damage, consider putting in more edging.
5. Fading color: If the color of your driveway has changed over time, don't be alarmed. While this indicates aging, it is still okay to use. If you have a concrete driveway, you can restore the color by fixing gaps and applying a sealant.
6. Your driveway is showing signs of wear & tear but it's less than 10 years old: Your driveway should last at least 15 years, so if it's less than 10 years old and is cracking or sagging, you should consider making repairs to extend its life.

If the damage is minor enough, doesn't cover more than half of the driveway's surface, and the repairs allow you to keep the driveway's overall integrity, you should repair your driveway.
 You may also consider resurfacing your driveway if it only requires repairs to the surface and not the foundation, or if you are bothered by the appearance of patched concrete or filled-in fissures. Resurfacing involves changing the top layer of asphalt or concrete rather than completely tearing up your driveway or fixing smaller portions. This will update the appearance of your driveway while costing less than a complete repair.

Asphalt driveways are more commonly resurfaced than concrete driveways, although your concrete may also be resurfaced.

What is the cost of resurfacing a driveway?

Driveway resurfacing or repaving costs between $1 and $3 per square foot. This option is more affordable than a complete driveway replacement. Still, because the repair is applied to your driveway's entire width and length, it will be more expensive than patching or repairing individual cracks and potholes. ​

5 Signs You Should Replace Your Driveway

Replacing a driveway is a significant financial investment. However, if it is beyond repair, it's probably wiser to take this route as it's a good investment. If your driveway has any of the following, you should consider a complete replacement:
 
1. Numerous potholes: Several potholes deep enough to affect the foundation indicate that your driveway needs to be completely redone. These holes will cause more damage by collecting water and therefore cost a great deal to fix individually.
2. Several interconnected spiderweb cracks: If most of your driveway is covered in intertwined, scale-like cracks, it's probably time to consider driveway replacement.
3. Drainage issues: If the area around your driveway or your driveway itself does not drain properly and is directing water toward the foundation of your home, you need to solve this problem as soon as possible in order to prevent further damage to your property.
4. Older than 20 years: A concrete driveway over 20 years old that shows indications of wear & tear should be entirely replaced.
5. Multiple separate areas that need to be fixed: If your driveway has several issues that need to be fixed, you may want to consider replacing it altogether.

How much does it cost to replace a driveway?

A new driveway requires significant investment. Expect to pay between $5 and $10 per square foot to replace a concrete driveway. The typical price to install a concrete driveway is $4,192, according to HomeAdvisor. Asphalt driveways are less expensive, ranging from $3 to $4 per square foot, but they have a shorter lifespan and are less durable.

Should I install a new driveway before I sell my home?

Driveway replacement is a better option than a driveway repair if you intend to sell your house soon. Even though you might not see a dollar-for-dollar return on your investment, a brand-new driveway will make your house look more charming and appealing than one that is patched up or damaged, which might quickly turn off potential buyers.

Do Your Montgomery Home Need a New Driveway?

What is your driveway trying to tell you? Are there any indications that the driveway needs to be replaced? Before trying to demolish and replace your concrete or asphalt, it's important to get expert advice first to determine the best available options for your situation. Contact one of our driveway contractors at (334)-721-5205 for an at-home consultation, and schedule a no-obligation free quote today!