Share:

A smooth concrete driveway adds curb appeal to any home, especially if you use decorative concrete. While this material is durable, over time it will show signs of wear and can damage your car without replacement. Here are several indications that you should stop patching the driveway and get a new one instead.

When to Replace Your Driveway

1. Deep Cracks

Small cracks in your driveway are common and happen when the weather changes or the ground shifts. You should repair these cracks quickly to avoid affecting the look of your decorative concrete. However, when large, deep cracks of more than half an inch wide form, you should replace the entire driveway. These deep cracks allow water, oil, and other substances to reach the foundation of the concrete, which will continue to weaken and damage it.

2. Potholes & Sunken Areas

decorative concreteWhen large chunks of concrete break from from your driveway or you notice that certain areas are sinking into the ground, you need a replacement. Potholes are hazardous for your vehicle, as they can damage the rims and knock the wheels out of alignment. Sunken areas indicate that the land is shifting or sinking, so you must remove the current driveway to repair the underlying surface.

3. Dull Appearance

Consistent sun exposure will fade decorative concrete. This may sound more aesthetic than dangerous; however, a weathered driveway is weaker and more likely to develop serious damage. Getting a new driveway of colored concrete will rejuvenate the life and appearance of your home. It will also add value if you decide to sell the home in the future.

4. Repeated Repairs

If you’re consistently repairing the same places in your driveway, it’s more cost-effective to replace the entire surface. Repairs are not as strong as freshly poured concrete, even though they are the same material. This is because the repair doesn’t cure at the same time as the rest of the surface. You can save time and money by investing in a new driveway that lasts for many years.

 

When you need a new driveway, call the professionals at Schreiter Ready Mix & Materials in O’Fallon, MO. These concrete suppliers offer a variety of materials for your specific construction project’s needs. They provide ready mix concrete, Solomon Colors®, Redi-Rock®, and more that they will deliver directly to your location. Call (636) 240-2600 to schedule a delivery. Learn about their products on their website.

tracking