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

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

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Hello Dave,

You did a Pre-Sale inspection of our home in N. Reading on 11/2006 as Sellers. I must say you prepared us well; can't say as much for the Buyers inspector who missed all the areas where we were still vulnerable.

Anyway, we are putting in an offer on a house in Littleton and proposing a 6/18 inspection date. House was built in 1979, about 2300 sqft. Wanted to give you a heads up.

Brian R.