Taking care of your home extends beyond the house itself. Your driveway is a part of your property that requires attention as well. You walk and drive on it every day, and it’s the first thing guests notice when they visit. But, do you know when your driveway concrete needs repair?
Here are six telltale signs that it’s time to consider a concrete repair service for your driveway.
1. Visible Cracks are Sprouting
When you start seeing visible cracks in your driveway, it’s an unmistakable sign of distress. These cracks might start small, but gradually grow wider and deeper. A minor issue could lead to more significant problems, such as a complete driveway breakdown. These cracks also indicate underlying issues such as soil erosion or poor initial installation.
2. The Appearance of Potholes
Potholes are not only an eyesore, but they can also be dangerous. They pose a risk to vehicles and can be a tripping hazard for pedestrians. The formation of potholes is often due to the expansion and contraction of water under the concrete. Over time, this process weakens the concrete, causing it to break down and form a hole.
3. Pooling Water Becomes Frequent
Water pooling is a common yet often overlooked sign it’s time for driveway concrete repair. This is especially true for homes subject to Milwaukee’s year-round wet weather. After a rainstorm or even just routine garden watering, you might notice small ponds forming on your driveway. These pools of water might seem harmless at first glance, but this may indicate deeper problems.
An uneven surface or craters in your concrete are usually caused by the sinking or shifting of the ground beneath. Not only can these pockets of standing water hasten the deterioration of your driveway’s surface, but they can also seep into the cracks and cause further damage. The continued exposure to water can make these dips and depressions larger and deepen the damage to your driveway over time.
4. Sunken Concrete Areas
Sunken concrete is usually the result of underlying soil erosion or a shift in the ground beneath the driveway. Factors like poor soil compaction, heavy loads, or water erosion can cause the soil to compact or wash away. When this happens, the concrete above sinks, leading to uneven, sunken spots.
Apart from detracting from your driveway’s visual appeal, these uneven areas can create serious functionality issues. They can make it challenging to drive or park your car smoothly, and they can even turn into potential tripping hazards for pedestrians. Moreover, if left unaddressed, these sunken areas can worsen, leading to more extensive and expensive repairs.
5. The Driveway is Simply Aging
Like everything else, concrete driveways have a lifespan. Generally, a concrete driveway can last up to 30 years with proper maintenance. As your driveway nears this mark, you may start to observe the fading color, a rougher surface texture, or even structural issues such as cracking and crumbling. Aging driveways aren’t just an aesthetic concern. The structural integrity can be compromised over time, potentially leading to unsafe conditions or damage to your vehicle.
While it’s impossible to stop the natural aging process, with appropriate maintenance and timely repairs, you can significantly extend the lifespan of your driveway. If your driveway is reaching this age, it may be time to consider repairs or possibly a complete replacement.
6. The Driveway Fails the ‘Sweep’ Test
Among various methods to assess the condition of your driveway, the ‘sweep’ test stands out due to its simplicity and effectiveness. This quick test involves sweeping your driveway with a broom and observing the aftermath. If you notice a substantial amount of concrete dust, it likely indicates surface deterioration.
This dust is often the result of the gradual breakdown of your driveway’s top layer, and it’s a sign that the concrete is not as strong as it should be. Atlas Mudjacking is here to help you address these problems early, using our efficient mudjacking process to strengthen and level your driveway before minor wear turns into major issues.
Why Choose Atlas Mudjacking for Driveway Concrete Repair?
At Atlas Mudjacking, we offer a simple, cost-effective solution for driveway concrete repair. Mudjacking, also known as slab jacking, is a process that raises and levels your concrete driveway, rectifying issues such as sinking and unevenness. It’s a quicker and more affordable alternative to complete driveway replacement.
Don’t let driveway problems get you down. Reach out to Atlas Mudjacking for a straightforward, no-obligation quote. Let us help you restore the look and functionality of your driveway. Remember, your home deserves the best, and so do you.