The corporate offices of the midwestern offices of the data storage center just received a facelift. After a week long project of jackhammering out the old driveway and replacing it with a new surface, the circle drive is again open. The concrete repairs give an immediate impression to companies that come to visit for sales meetings and conferences.
In some parts of the country, driveway repairs are few and far between. In other parts of the country where the freezing and thawing process that wreak havoc on both asphalt and concrete driveways, these repairs a frequent part of home maintenance. When installed correctly and properly maintained, a concrete driveway can last 25 to 50 years. Initial signs of wear and tear, however, should prompt homeowners to seek advice on fixing a situation before it becomes dangerous.
For example, a sunken sidewalk is a hazard to neighborhood children and families who walk or ride bikes. The unseen drop can cause a trip or bike crash that can technically be the liability of the homeowner. As another example, when the initial caulking that is installed when a concrete driveway is poured starts to pull out or disintegrate, the resulting gaps allow for the growth of weeds. Worse yet, these gaps allow moisture to get between the concrete squares and cause further damage. Driveway repairs are almost always less expensive and less dangerous if they are dealt with immediately.
Some Neighborhoods Have Strict Codes about Driveway Surfaces
Subdivision codes in many parts of the country put limitations on what kinds of driveway surfaces can be used. For example, while it may be acceptable in one suburb to pour a colored concrete driveway, asphalt driveways may not be allowed. Although it is important to make driveway repairs as soon as they are needed, it is equally important to make sure that homeowners understand any subdivision codes and guidelines.
A driveway contractor can help homeowners determine if a concrete repair will work or if a complete replacement is needed. Often small driveway repairs can be completed in one or two days. Larger replacement projects, however, can take a week.
Environmentally, driveway repairs are pretty impressive. Although the old materials may not be used in the exact driveway where they originated, much is either reclaimed or reused. In fact, 67.8 million tons of asphalt pavement material was reclaimed, and nearly 100% was reused in the year 2013.
A well maintained driveway serves two purposes: they are safe and they are attractive.
