Different Types of Driveways and how to Maintain them
It's not surprising that driveway installations can be expensive. Of course this also means that the overall value and appearance of your property will increase. A well-maintained driveway shows the pride that you take in your property and the willingness to invest for a more inviting presence.
When it comes to all driveways in general, there are three simple maintenance tips that all homeowners should follow:
-Removing stains as soon as they appear
-Avoiding heavy traffic of large vehicles
-Stay away from deicing chemicals
That being said, here's a more in-depth guide to the different types of driveways and how to deal with them:
Concrete: Concrete driveways require regular sealing and cleaning for a perfect appearance. For reference, you should look to seal your concrete driveway once every two years, or whenever you notice wear and tear in the finish. This is especially important if your driveway is used everyday in an area without too much severe weather. Lastly, fluid leaks should be avoided as the liquid can seep into the concrete and even cause discoloration.
Brick: Implementing a brick driveway can take a lot of time and money. Thus, it creates an even bigger incentive to maintain its quality and help it last longer. Once a week, you should look to remove any grass or weeds growing along or between the bricks. Mud and dirt can also build up in between the bricks, so an outdoor brush may be required. Hosing the driveway regularly will also keep it free of any debris. You want to avoid the packing down of mud and dirt because that's when it becomes especially difficult to remove it.
Gravel: Amongst homeowners this material is considered to be the cheapest driveway option. Not only is it affordable but it's also reliably durable. Similar to the brick driveway, weeds can also grow on gravel driveways. Along with this, it's much harder to sweep away any debris buildup due to the texture of gravel. Potholes are also a possibility when it comes to a gravel driveway. If this does occur, then look to fill up the hole with sand and replace the missing gravel.
Asphalt: This is a popular driveway option due to how fantastic it can look when installed. The problem with this material is that it is easily damaged without proper care. Hosing off the driveway should be done once a week, and gas/motor oil spills must be avoided since it will damage the surface of your driveway.
Flagstone: Last but not least, the flagstone driveway is considered one of the most beautiful. Of course that means it comes at a higher price. Make sure to purchase cleaning materials specifically designed for flagstone driveways. Use this to target any stains that appear as soon as you spot them to ensure a long-term, healthy driveway.
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