Concrete contractors build concrete driveways durable, but that doesn’t mean they last forever. Even with proper care, there comes a time when your concrete driveway will need to be replaced.
Recognizing the time to replace your concrete driveway is important, as it can help you avoid costly repairs and keep your property looking its best. Here are 5 key signs that it’s time to replace your driveway.
1. Cracks
Cracking in concrete is a common problem that often arises after construction or (hopefully) a few years after installation. If the concrete is poured properly and in a climate that allows it to settle and cure, cracking is usually only cosmetic and unnoticeable. However, cracks in concrete that have become wider than 1/4 inch are a sign that the driveway is nearing the end of its life.
Repairing cracks in concrete is a relatively simple process. A masonry crack elastomeric filler can be applied to the surface and pushed into cracks using a caulking gun. This can be done several times and will provide a temporary fix for the cracks. However, cracks that are too wide to be filled are a sign that the concrete is in poor condition and replacement may be the best option.
A crack that has a network of connected lines is also a sign that it is time to replace the concrete. This could indicate that the driveway is weakened to the point where it can no longer support the weight of vehicles or the pressure of the ground on it.
2. Potholes
Concrete is a popular material for driveways because of its durability, but it is susceptible to damage over time. While some damage can be repaired with crack repair and other methods, if the underlying issues continue to progress, full replacement is the best option.
Potholes in a concrete driveway are not only unsightly, but they can cause damage to vehicles as they drive over them. This can include causing tire punctures, suspension damage, and other issues.
Potholes are a sign that the ground under your concrete is continuing to shift and erode, leading to void spaces and sinking of the surface. When this happens, it is impossible to repair and you will need a new concrete driveway installed.
3. Unevenness
Uneven concrete can lead to a host of problems. In addition to creating tripping hazards, it can cause damage to your car’s suspension and tires. This type of issue often arises due to poor construction practices and can be corrected with a few different techniques.
One method is to lift the slab and replace it with new concrete. This is a more involved process, as the concrete contractor will need to demolish the old concrete and then pour new concrete to create an even surface. However, this method can be effective and help eliminate trip hazards.
Another option is to use mudjacking. This technique involves drilling penny-sized holes into the uneven concrete and then pumping a polyurethane foam mixture into these holes. As the mixture expands, it raises the concrete back to its original position.
If you notice that your concrete driveway has become uneven, it is important to get it repaired right away. This will prevent the problem from worsening and save you money in the long run. If left untreated, your uneven concrete may eventually crack and break apart, which will be much more expensive than repairing it in its early stages.
4. Weakness
Concrete driveways serve as entryways to your home and provide parking space for vehicles. They also help enhance the aesthetics of a property. While these features are important, a concrete driveway’s lifespan can vary based on various factors. If you notice frequent cracking or other issues, it may be time to consider replacement.
The average lifespan of a concrete driveway is 30 years, but this can differ depending on the conditions it’s exposed to. Generally, a concrete driveway that has reached or exceeded its 30th birthday is no longer as durable and functional as it once was. If you’re noticing cracks and fissures throughout the surface, it may be more cost-effective to replace the concrete than to try repairing it again.
Another sign that your driveway is reaching the end of its life is sinking concrete. This is typically the result of drainage problems, such as cracks or pitting. While products can be inserted underneath the concrete to lift it up, it’s often more cost-effective to simply replace the concrete driveway. This will prevent water damage to your home and create a more stable foundation for the structure.
5. Sinking
A concrete driveway gives you a space to park your car, boosts curb appeal, and protects your home from rain and other weather conditions. However, a concrete driveway cannot last forever. Time, weather, and heavy vehicles can cause damage to a concrete driveway that may require repair or replacement.
One sign that it is time to call your concrete contractor and replace your concrete driveway is when sections of the slab begin to sink. This is most often caused by a problem with the soil beneath your driveway. For instance, if your soil is granular (with lots of small sand and rock particles), it erodes more rapidly than clay-based soil.
A sinking driveway is not only unsightly, but it can also be a tripping hazard. Fortunately, there are products that can be injected underneath the concrete to raise it up; however, this is only a temporary solution. Folks in the heart of central Wisconsin deal with this problem on a nearly annual basis due to the wild change in temperature that occurs yearly. If a large section of your driveway has begun to sink, replacing it is the best option. Call your local concrete contractors Wausau WI for a free estimate.
