If you’re got a damaged driveway, you are probably debating whether it’s better to repair or replace it.
Both concrete driveway repairs and full replacement can be a good choice depending on the damage and the situation.
In this blog, we will cover the pros and cons of both to help you decide the right choice for your situation.
How to Decide Whether to Fix Or Replace Your Driveway
When there’s damage to your concrete driveway, it’s important to measure the extent of the damage and examine if repair work is possible as opposed to a complete replacement.
Minor cracks or sunken patches might be repairable through filling or sealing. However, if your driveway is full of large potholes, extensive cracking or if it’s over 20 years old, consider a full replacement.
The weather conditions and age of your driveway also play a role in this decision. If you’re dealing with budget limitations, you’ll need to think carefully about whether you can accommodate the cost of a complete replacement, or fixing it is the better option from a financial perspective. Regular checks and upkeep can assist you in making a well-informed choice.
Common Driveway Damage And Repair Options
Here are the common types of driveway damage. Each type of damage has its own set of repair solutions:
- Cracked Concrete
- Crumbing Concrete
- Sinking Driveway
Pros and Cons of Fixing Your Current Driveway
Evaluating the advantages and disadvantages of repairing your concrete driveway is a vital move before you put money into any repair or replacement jobs. One merit of repairing is it’s cost-effective. It’s about $3 per square metre for minor problems, making it significantly less expensive than a total replacement. Moreover, quick action on small chips and surface flaws can prolong your driveway’s life and avert larger, pricier problems later on.
A well-done mend can also boost the look of your driveway without needing a full makeover. On the flip side, if your driveway has widespread damage, repairing might not be the optimal solution. You could merely be postponing the unavoidable replacement, resulting in more expenses in the long run.
Pros and Cons of Replacing Your Driveway
It’s true that renewing your driveway requires a larger initial expense, but it’s important to think about the potential benefits over time such as lasting for a long period, increased property worth, and a fresh, updated look.
Yes, you’ll face immediate expenses and potential interruptions during fitting, but you’ll also see benefits. A new driveway can last over 30 years and enhance your home’s external appeal. If you opt for high-quality materials like pattern imprinted concrete, it could be even more appealing, though at an extra cost.
Furthermore, renewal allows you to tackle any fundamental issues like drainage troubles or structural harm that repairs can’t handle. So, while renewal is a significant investment, it’s often a wise one, offering durability, visual appeal, and less upkeep in the future.
Conclusion
Whether you consider repairing or replacing your concrete driveway, Smooth Concrete is here to help. Get in touch with us today! Call 0403 292 005 or email us at luke@smoothconcrete.com.au