How To Care for Your Driveway: 5 Tips

Our driveways are extensions of our home. Performing driveway maintenance should be done often to improve the functionality and appearance of your driveway.

Driveways are gateways to our homes. They are one of the most used assets of our homes, but their upkeep is often overlooked. Overlooking your driveway’s needed maintenance can make your home look uninviting and disheveled. Here’s how to care for your driveway properly.   

Fill in the Cracks  

Cracks in your driveway can lead to big potholes that will damage your vehicle. Concrete driveways should be sealed annually, and asphalt should be sealed every few years to prevent cracks from appearing in the first place. If you do notice any cracks beginning to form, take care of them as soon as possible. Remove any debris from the crack and fill with a driveway crack filler; then, seal the driveway for protection.

Avoid Salting Cement  

Salt on cement driveways can create abrasions, penetrate the driveway surface, and create large cracks. Look to use alternatives to salt, like sand or coffee grounds, for grip on a slippery driveway surface.   

Be Careful With Snow Removal  

Snowplows and shovels can do damage to your driveway if you are not careful. The blade of a snowplow or a metal shovel can scratch the driveway surface. Try to use a plastic shovel and shovel uneven parts of the driveway rather than plowing to avoid scratching the surface.   

Avoid Water Buildup   

Puddles of water or other liquids can eventually lead to potholes. Make sure your driveway has a clear run-off path, ensure there are no drainage systems leading to your driveway, and clean off puddles of water when you see them.   

Wash Your Driveway  

Cleaning your driveway may sound unconventional but it is one of the best ways to care for your driveway. Rinse any oils or other substances off your driveway. Oils can build up and penetrate the surface of a concrete driveway or weaken the strength of asphalt driveways. Rinse the oils away and scrub the stained areas with a standard brush and biodegradable cleaners.