An attractive, clean, and safe driveway is a work of art. Along with the pleasantries of your home’s exterior, a beautiful driveway can increase your home’s curb appeal and make life easier at the same time. Perhaps you’ve noticed a few changes after a few seasons of driving and parking. How do you know if now is the best time to get a new driveway?
Your Driveway is Damaged
Asphalt driveways last about 15 to 20 years. Unfortunately, thanks to factors such as the weather or poor installation, your driveway could be filled with potholes and cracks. An unsightly view for homeowners and guests alike, damage to your driveway can lead to damage to your vehicle. Just think of how much strain you’re putting on your car and how uncomfortable it feels for you as the driver. No one likes driving over potholes.
Consider getting a new driveway installed if yours is damaged beyond repair. Fortunately, you can hire a professional to fix the cracks. However, if the damage is too severe, you may need a new driveway installed completely. A smooth driveway is also less of a risk because potholes and crumbling edges could see your or a homeowner get hurt.
Your Driveway Isn’t Draining
Have you ever seen those big puddles of water sitting in your driveway? They’re horrible to look at, but that’s only one problem with them. Driveways that don’t drain can collect water that further degrades the quality of your driveway. Not only that, when walking to and from your vehicle, you risk stepping in the puddles if you’re not careful. Simply put, it’s better to have a new driveway if the water collecting in the current driveway is impossible to repair.
The water collects on your driveway’s surface most often when vehicles aren’t parked there. If you can redirect the water when it’s raining, the puddles won’t form. When your driveway is empty, take the time to clean the driveway carefully. Be sure to fill up any holes or cracks and keep the driveway’s edges clear from debris. A driveway that isn’t draining isn’t necessarily a permanent problem, so be sure to keep an eye on it.
Your Driveway Isn’t Big Enough
There’s nothing quite as uncomfortable and excruciating as trying to fit two cars into a tight driveway. When it’s dark or the weather’s terrible, you might run into one of your family member’s vehicles. If your driveway isn’t big enough, you’ll need a new, much bigger driveway installed.
You’re Dissatisfied with Your Driveway Style
Did you know that of the 2.6 miles of paved roads in America, 94% are asphalt? Asphalt isn’t as easy to install as concrete, but there are other styles you can choose from, including cobblestone and brick. The type of driveway can make or break your home’s curb appeal. If you’ve lived in your home for a while, maybe you’ve changed your interests. Consider a change in style!
You’re Planning on Selling Your Home
There could be plenty of reasons you want to sell your home, but there’s one catch. A driveway that makes a buyer frown doesn’t net you a win in the home-selling process. If you want to sell your home, consider taking the time to get your driveway repaired or upgraded. Repairs and upgrades will prevent you from having to put money into an entirely new driveway.
Independent auto shops carry out 75% of aftermarket auto repair. Part of that is due to the kind of damage cars take in various situations. Home buyers don’t want to take their vehicles to a commercial body shop, and if they see that their car is damaged after parking, the driveway is the first place they’ll look. Avoid having to go to an auto shop altogether and repair your driveway before it damages your vehicle.
As a homeowner, it’s worth taking the time to consider whether you need to repair, upgrade, or replace your driveway. Just remember that a better driveway improves your home’s curb appeal. Now, you’re one step closer to living in the home you always dreamed of having.
