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Should I Repair or Replace my Drive?

Posted on by optioffice

A variety of factors come into play when considering whether to repair or replace your driveway. The age of the driveway, whether it is constructed from brick, cement or asphalt, changes in usage such as the introduction of heavier vehicles, and more cosmetic factors such as creating a harmonious design that fits with your garden or home will all impact upon your decision.

Asphalt has a lifespan of around 20 years, and brick and concrete of around 25 years. At this point it is wise to survey the breadth and severity of the degeneration of the materials, as a drive with 50-60 per cent damage will be more cost effective to replace than repair. Cracks and divots can be filled, but water will seep in and open them up again with time. Constant refilling is a lot of effort, and cracks larger than a quarter of an inch suggest there may be problems with the foundations.

Installing a new drive may seem like an expensive process, as it requires groundwork and the construction of a firm foundation however it could save you money in the long run. If your drive is less than a couple of decades old and damage is minor it is usually preferable to simply repair it. If, however, the damage is unsightly or extensive but the foundations are still young enough to be in good condition, there is a happy medium in choosing to resurface your drive instead of replacing it.

Resurfacing involves stripping away only the top layer and building on existing foundations. This is a particularly practical solution if you are looking to improve the look of your building before sale or after renovation.

Persistent cracking may indicate that water is seeping into the foundations, and the drive will either need to be repaired directly or be replaced. If it can be repaired, concrete drives in particular can have their lifespans extended by a couple of decades.

A good rule of thumb to stick to is to make decisions based on the size of cracks and divots, and the percentage of the driveway they cover. The larger and more frequent the damage, the more likely the drive will need to be replaced. You should also consider how long you will be at the property, how much you’re willing to invest, and how valuable your driveway is as an amenity.

Here at J.R.S. Contracting Ltd we are able to offer a range of groundwork services so give us a call today or visit our contact page.

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