Driveway Maintenance

asphalt driveway

ASPHALT

Blacktop driveways won’t stay smooth and black forever. The harsh New England weather works to break down the surface over time. Without proper maintenance, cracks and potholes will inevitably appear. Grass can also take over the edges and spread through cracks in the driveway.

Excessive heat, freezing temperatures, UV rays, and substances like salt, oil, gas, and grease all contribute to the wear and tear on your driveway. Without protection, that once-beautiful black surface can turn into a lumpy, crumbling mess. By sealing your driveway every two to three years, you can prevent these issues. You can either tackle the job yourself or hire professionals who specialize in driveway maintenance.

CONCRETE

Repairing cracks and holes in concrete is essential for preventing water damage and improving safety. These cracks can allow water to seep into vulnerable areas, and since concrete is porous, it absorbs water like a sponge. When temperatures drop and the concrete is wet, the water can freeze, causing cracking, spalling, or chipping. To minimize this damage, regularly seal the concrete with an acrylic or silicone-based sealer specifically designed for concrete and masonry.

A liquid concrete sealer fills the pores of the concrete, preventing water absorption. Typically clear, concrete sealers last anywhere from six months to a year, depending on the quality of the product, surface preparation, and climate.

Inexpensive "water seals" often don't provide the same level of protection as higher-quality products. Additionally, lower-quality sealers need to be reapplied more frequently, which can end up costing more over time. Concrete sealers can be applied with a brush, roller, or pump garden sprayer. Before applying the sealer, be sure to clean the concrete thoroughly. Rock salt used to melt snow is a common cause of concrete deterioration, and sealing can help protect against salt damage. After the snow melts, rinse the area with hot water to remove as much salt as possible before sealing.

A driveway that isn’t properly maintained will quickly develop excessive cracks and deteriorate.

damaged driveway

BACK TO MAIN PAGE

Share:

Here is what my clients have to say about my home inspection services:

Press F5 (on your keyboard) for additional testimonials

Dear David,

I just wanted to write a quick thank-you for the professional and informative job that you did at my home inspection on Monday. As a first time home buyer I was incredibly nervous going into the inspection not knowing what to expect - what should I be asking? What should I be looking for? it was all very overwhelming. However, after the first 15 minutes of the inspection, you quickly put all of my fears to rest!

The way that you took the time to point out and explain to me everything that you were looking for, as well as all of the helpful suggestions that you so freely gave out instantly, had put my mind at ease. I was able to feel that I was in good hands and knew that I had a “Professional” doing the job. This was solidified for me at the end of the inspection when you went over your extensive report with me, item by item ensuring that I fully understood what was there.

Your professionalism and expertise was so greatly appreciated. If ever anyone asks for a recommendation please feel free to give them my name, it would be my pleasure to help put another home buyer’s worried mind to ease by letting them know that with Massachusetts Home Inspections, they can count on a professional job well done.

With Kind Regards,

Karen S.