When Should I Replace My Driveway?

Concrete Driveway Before and After

Does your driveway look a little worse for wear? Are you tired of seeing a patchwork of concrete near your home’s façade? If so, you may be debating between driveway repair and driveway replacement. Your driveway experiences daily abuse from vehicles, foot traffic and Mother Nature, but it can still last for decades with proper maintenance. Read on to learn when you should replace your driveway.

How Long Does a Concrete Driveway Last?

A well-maintained concrete driveway can last 30 years, on average. However, there are several factors that influence that lifespan, such as ground erosion below the driveway, quality of installation, the types of vehicles that sit on the driveway, oil stains, UV exposure, and much more. If your driveway is at least 30 years old, it could last another decade! But it might also be time for a new driveway.

How Long Does a Brick Paver Driveway Last?

Brick paver driveways can last a lifetime, but that doesn’t mean that they are maintenance free. The pavers settle and shift over time, so they occasionally need to be releveled. The good news is, you don’t have to replace the pavers. They can be arranged back in place. With a concrete driveway, there’s not much to do after the slab cracks. The only option is to tear it out and replace it.

Driveway Repair vs. Driveway Replacement

Depending on the condition of your driveway, you may only need driveway repair for now. For instance, if you have a paver driveway that is uneven, you could get paver restoration instead of a whole new driveway. Repair options for concrete driveways are a little more limited, but there are some cosmetic steps you can take before investing in a complete driveway repour.

Signs It’s Time to Replace Your Driveway

If you’re unsure whether you should replace your driveway, here are some signs to watch out for:

  • The damage to the driveway makes it unsafe to drive or walk on
  • The driveway is stained beyond repair
  • There is water pooling up on the driveway when it rains
  • The driveway detracts from the home’s curb appeal (important when selling your home)
  • There are cracks or holes in the driveway
  • You’re replacing other hardscaping features and want a cohesive look

If the driveway looks awful or no longer serves its functional purpose, it may be time for a new driveway. Reach out to Mortar City Masonry at (586) 533-1305 to schedule your driveway replacement quote.