At A Better Driveway Melbourne, we are here to service all your driveway needs. Today we’ll be looking at a few frequently asked questions about driveways and provide some answers. So, you can keep your driveway in top quality condition, whether it is made from exposed aggregate or textured concrete.
Why do driveways crack?
There are many reasons for cracks to appear in your driveway, the same as they appear on a footpath or any other concrete ground structure. One of the biggest reasons in Melbourne is temperature shifts; while we usually don’t have to deal with freeze-thaw cycles like in the northern hemisphere, the heat of the Australian sun can cause a concrete driveway, like many other materials, to expand. This expansion can lead to small cracks appearing and enlarging over time.
Another common reason is large tree roots growing underneath the driveway, the force of an object moving underground filling up the space can cause driveway cracks. However, if a tree root is removed/ decomposes a similar issue can occur. The dirt underneath can become less compact and drop to fill in the space originally taken up by the tree root, creating a gap between the underside of the driveway and top dirt, making the surface less stable.
If you own a heavy vehicle such as a truck, and it is going to be parked in your driveway often, keep an eye on the condition of the surface. Under the weight of heavy vehicles, driveways may crack, requiring resurfacing or even replacement earlier.
Why driveway sealing is necessary?
It is recommended to seal your driveway every couple of years to prevent deterioration. Your concrete driveway is exposed to external elements such as water, heat and cold all year round leading to erosion. Driveway sealant prevents severe cracks so that you don’t need to replace large sections of your driveway. The sealant repels water, meaning that during rain, the water will not be absorbed by the concrete and cause it to expand. However, any cracks should be filled before using a driveway sealant.
Which driveway material is best?
There are many factors to consider when deciding which driveway material is best for you – such as price, safety, and aesthetic? How will the driveway integrate with your yard and house? At A Better Driveway, we provide concrete services and installation of exposed aggregate, textured concrete, and coloured concrete surfaces. Get in contact with us and we can help provide consultation over what driveway solution your property needs.
Can you use a driveway sealer on concrete?
Yes, there are brands of driveway sealers that are suitable for concrete driveways. Consider which material your driveway is made from and get a sealant that is appropriate. Different sealants use differing liquid bases etc.
Will driveway sealer kill grass?
Although it is not recommended to use your lawn in a driveway sealer to help your plants grow, a driveway sealer should not kill your lawn if the grass is bordering your driveway. The grass blades where bits of sealer end up may have some discolouration, but this will disappear after the grass is mown a couple of times.
When to replace your driveway?
Most of the time, cracks in your driveway simply need to be filled to prevent further issues. However, if your driveway is covered in large cracks and potholes and is uncomfortable to drive on – it might be time to get it resurfaced or replaced.
At A Better Driveway, we offer a 5-year structural guarantee for your driveway. Sometimes cracks appear in poorly designed driveways far too early due to poor installation practices. Here at A Better Driveway, we guarantee the structural integrity of your driveway under normal use under warranty, so you can rest assured that you are getting a top-quality installation.
If you are considering a replacement or resurfacing of your Melbourne driveway and want guaranteed premium quality and installation, you have found the right place here at A Better Driveway. We specialise in various driveway types such as exposed aggregate, textured or coloured concrete.
Get in contact by calling us on 0412 537 776 or fill out our online contact form so a member of our team can get back to you ASAP.