Driveway Maintenance
A well-maintained driveway not only enhances the look of your home but also ensures its longevity. Regular upkeep can prevent costly repairs and keep your driveway looking fresh for years. Here’s everything you need to know about maintaining your tarmac or block paving driveway.
Tarmac Driveway Maintenance
Tarmac is relatively low-maintenance, but a few steps can help it last longer and stay in top condition.
Regular Cleaning: Use a stiff brush or a pressure washer to clear dirt, debris, and moss from the surface. Removing organic material prevents moisture from building up and causing damage.
Sealcoating: Every few years, applying a protective sealant can rejuvenate the surface and protect it from wear, UV damage, and oil stains.
Crack Repair: Small cracks should be addressed as soon as possible. You can fill them using a cold bitumen crack filler to prevent water from seeping into the base layer and causing further damage.
Avoiding Heavy Loads: While tarmac is strong, regularly parking heavy vehicles or machinery in the same spot can lead to depressions or even cracks. Distribute weight evenly to avoid damage.
Block Paving Driveway Maintenance
Block paving requires a bit more maintenance, especially if you want to keep the design looking crisp and free of weeds.
Weed Control: Weed growth between the paving blocks is common. You can use a weed killer or simply remove them manually. For added protection, reapply kiln-dried sand to the joints between the blocks regularly, as this helps lock them in place and reduce weed growth.
Jet Washing: Using a pressure washer is an effective way to clean block paving, but be careful not to dislodge the sand between the blocks. After cleaning, it’s a good idea to reapply sand and reseal if necessary.
Relevelling: Over time, individual blocks can shift or sink, especially in areas with high traffic. These can be easily lifted and relevelled by replacing the sub-base material beneath.
Sealing: For added protection, consider applying a sealant every few years. This helps prevent stains from oils or other chemicals and keeps the blocks looking vibrant.
General Tips for All Driveways
Regardless of the material, here are some general tips that can extend the life of your driveway:
Drainage: Ensuring proper drainage is essential. Regularly check that water isn’t pooling in areas, which can cause damage to the surface. If drainage issues occur, they should be addressed quickly to prevent long-term problems.
Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Use driveway-safe products when cleaning. Harsh chemicals can erode the surface or strip away protective layers like sealants.
Snow Removal: If you live in an area prone to freezing temperatures, use a plastic shovel to clear snow. Metal shovels can scratch the surface of your driveway. Avoid salt or de-icing chemicals on block paving, as these can damage the material.
When to Consider Repairs
Over time, even with proper maintenance, driveways can show signs of wear. Here are some signs that your driveway may need repairs or resurfacing:
Cracks or Potholes: For tarmac, minor cracks can be repaired easily, but if they worsen, it may be time to consider resurfacing.
Sinking or Shifting Blocks: Block paving driveways can become uneven over time. Relevelling individual blocks is a quick fix, but extensive sinking may require a more comprehensive repair.
Conclusion
With regular maintenance, your driveway can look fantastic and remain in excellent condition for many years. Whether you have a tarmac or block paving driveway, simple upkeep like cleaning, sealing, and addressing issues promptly can save you from larger, more costly repairs in the future. At Strelley Asphalt, we not only install high-quality driveways but also offer advice on how to keep them in great shape.