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Keeping Up With Curb Appeal: The Top 5 Driveway Maintenance Tips You Need to Know

Whether you have bricks, pavers, concrete or an asphalt driveway, keeping it in good shape is the biggest factor in how long the surface will effectively serve you. Upkeep is also essential to ensuring that they maintain their appearance and add value to the home. Check out these top tips for maintaining the most common driveway materials.

1. Stay Diligent with Seal Coating

Driveway maintenance will be eased with routing seal coating of the installation’s surface. This is a good move for most kinds of solid-surface driveways, and is a must-do for concrete and asphalt materials that can stain and deteriorate with excessive sun and moisture exposure.

However, an asphalt driveway will need around 90 days to cure before being sealed. Most surfaces will need to be resealed about every two years to extend their lifespan and keep them looking attractive. This task is often best left to professionals, as it takes special tools and can be time-consuming for the typical homeowner.

2. Clean Up Stains Quickly

Routine seal coating can help prevent stains from oil, gas and other fluids that can penetrate bricks, pavers, concrete and asphalt driveways. Yet, it’s best to immediately clean up any such spills to keep stains at bay, which is likely to detract from the beauty of the home. Consider regular pressure washing to retain an ultra-clean look throughout the year.

3. Don’t Let Plants Take Over Driveway Surfaces

While green foliage is desirable in landscaping, plants and weeds can be a true menace to driveways. They can penetrate through to the surface by way of small cracks, which can actually widen them over time. Experts recommend filling in any cracks quickly and aggressively.

To prevent grass from taking over the edges of driveways, invest in some type of trim, edging or river rocks to place along the sides. In addition to keeping grass where it belongs, this addition can become a key visual element of your hardscaping design.

4. Perform a Driveway Inspection After Winter or Heavy Freezes

Should you reside in an area that sees freezing temperatures or seasonal snowfalls, the driveway will experience freeze-thaw cycles. Unfortunately, this can be a primary cause of driveway damage and is a particular issue with an asphalt driveway that can easily shift.

Be sure to do a visual inspection after deep freezes or heavy snow to check for cracks, potholes, or any signs of crumbling materials. Be prepared to take care of any necessary repairs right away. Ignoring deterioration will only allow the problem to worsen and spread to other areas of the driveway.

5. Invest in a Driveway Professional

While it’s possible to do a good portion of driveway maintenance and basic repairs as DIY projects, bigger jobs might be best left to professionals. In cases of tough stains or large installations, an experienced technician can make magic happen with greater ease and in less time. Having a local contractor in place ensures fast repairs and regularly scheduled seal coating and cleaning.

Don’t Underestimate the Talents of a Pro

As you can see, the driveway is a large part of a home’s exterior features, and will be seen by neighbors and passersby on a regular basis. Don’t be the neighbor who neglects their driveway and drives down the overall curb appeal on your street. Invest in driveway maintenance!

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Is a Concrete Driveway the Best Choice for Your Home?

Has your driveway seen better days? Cracks, potholes, and drainage issues are all tell-tale signs that a new driveway install may be in your immediate future.

If you’re ready to replace your driveway, you have many options, including having a concrete driveway or a cement driveway installed. Keep reading to learn about the pros and cons of installing a concrete vs. a cement driveway.

The Differences Between Concrete and Cement Driveways

Concrete and cement are often used interchangeably because they look similar; however, they are not the same. Very few things are constructed with cement alone.

Cement is an ingredient in concrete. Along with cement, concrete is also manufactured with water and aggregates including gravel, stone, and sand, which make up about 75% of concrete. Cement, meanwhile, is made from a mixture of silicon, calcium, iron, and aluminum, which are then heated up to a very high temperature before being ground into a fine powder we know as cement. It is then often used as a component of concrete.

Using cement alone is more suitable for smaller projects such as grout or to repair damaged concrete. Most experts don’t recommend using just cement to construct a driveway because it is less durable than concrete and won’t last as long.

Using Concrete to Construct a Driveway

Concrete is one of the most popular and durable materials in the world. It’s used to construct homes, commercial buildings, driveways, columns, and foundations.

Some of the benefits of choosing a concrete driveway over cement, asphalt, or gravel include:

Durable and Long Lasting

Well-maintained concrete driveways can last 30 years or more. Ensure you hire a reputable concrete company to install your driveway as proper installation plays an important role in the durability and lifespan of your driveway. Typically constructed with separate square slabs, concrete driveways are durable enough to handle heavy trucks, RVs, and boats. Concrete driveways often last 50% or longer than asphalt surfaces.

Low Maintenance

Concrete driveways are incredibly easy to maintain. They typically require only regular sweepings or power washes. A concrete sealer should be applied once a year, especially in colder climates that experience frequent freeze-thaw cycles.

Cost-effective

Although concrete driveways are more expensive to construct than other surfaces, they’re most cost-effective in the long run because of reduced maintenance costs, fewer repairs, and a longer life expectancy.

Increased Home Value

Concrete driveways can help increase your home’s value. Not only do many people think concrete is more aesthetically pleasing than other surfaces, but potential homebuyers may be more likely to buy your house knowing the surface requires little maintenance and can last for 30 or more years before a replacement driveway is needed.

Environmentally Friendly

Concrete is a recyclable material, which makes it environmentally friendly. It also requires reduced energy than other materials because it doesn’t need to be repaired, resurfaced, and it lasts longer.

The Cons of Installing a Concrete Driveway

Overall, there are very few cons to installing a concrete driveway. If you’re looking for a cheaper alternative to a concrete driveway due to budgetary constraints, then it may be more cost-effective in the short term to install an asphalt driveway.

Although concrete requires minimal maintenance, it does need to be sealed once a year to ensure the durability of the surface. Fluids or oil stains from cars can be very difficult to remove once they seep into the surface.

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The Benefits of a Career in the Asphalt Industry

When you choose a career with an asphalt company, you become a leader in the construction industry. Think about all the miles of road that there are across the United States and how many of them are paved in asphalt. Millions of people rely on those roads to get them everywhere they need to be. This means that all those people depend on those working in the asphalt industry to keep the roads safe and functional. When a road is closed, it causes delays, frustration, and backups along adjacent roads. Those in the asphalt industry keep their communities moving. There are many benefits to having a career in the asphalt industry.

Job Security

Not many people can say they have job security these days. When you are looking for a career, security is a driving factor. Asphalt companies are not among the businesses fighting for survival. They are not going anywhere. Asphalt has been keeping our highways and roads functioning for just about 150 years. It is just as important now as when it was first used. The existing roads, parking lots, driveways, and other paved surfaces are always going to need maintenance and repair. In addition to existing roads, new roads are constantly created. Without a doubt, the asphalt industry provides job security.

Career Advancement

Each asphalt company has its own setup and style, but no matter which one you choose, there is going to be room for advancement. There are varying levels of knowledge, skill, and experience needed in construction, and asphalt is no different. Most organizations want you to contribute to the company in many different ways. There are many other positions within the asphalt industry, and not all of them are on the job touching the asphalt. There are plant managers, a foreman, laborers, road crew members, researchers, engineers, administration, and other support. Asphalt is not only found in construction. It is also found in civil engineering, technology, and research. Each person is dedicated to the safety and quality of the road system.

Hard-Working Partners

Everyone in the asphalt industry works hard and takes pride in their job. Workers in this industry are dedicated and hard working. To succeed in this industry, you must enjoy working with your hands and being involved in some aspect of construction. The entire team has a work ethic and lives by a higher standard for themselves and the community. Working in the asphalt industry offers a variety of extra perks. These include a well paying job that will last and is in the local area. There usually is not much travel involved with this job. You have the opportunity to contain education and growth into many different positions. You are not stuck forever out on the road pushing a broom. You are supporting and building the infrastructure for the community in which you live. You are using products that are sustainable for the environment. You are able to see the progress and the fruits of your labor on a regular basis.

There is no reason to delay looking for a job in the asphalt industry. You will not regret that decision.

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How Long Do You Need to Stay Off The Driveway After Applying An Asphalt Sealcoating?

One of the primary questions residential and commercial property owners want to know about applying a driveway sealcoat involves drying times. More specifically, property owners want to know how long after an asphalt sealcoat has been laid down can they resume usage.

While some resources offer advice such as “48 hours,” the answer is not that simple. A wide range of products can be employed, and each type of asphalt sealcoat dry time differs. It’s also important to keep in mind that seasonal temperatures and weather can impact how long you’ll need to stay off the driveway after applying a driveway sealcoat. For a more precise estimate, these are things property owners would be well-served to consider.

How Will Rain Effect an Asphalt Sealcoat?

Experienced asphalt contractors are careful to check local weather reports. Should Mother Nature deliver unexpected precipitation, an asphalt sealcoat can be rendered uneven or non-existent. Moisture from automatic sprinklers and other delivery systems can have the same negative effect on a newly coated surface. A driveway sealcoat typically must dry for at least 4-8 hours, depending on the product and conditions. Given the impact water can have on sealants, it’s advisable to stay off the driveway until a contractor can rectify the issue.

How Long Does A Driveway Sealcoat Take To Dry During Summer?

The best time to apply an asphalt sealcoat is during the warm-weather months. This timing should also be factored against regional rainy seasons. Some areas of the country experience fast-moving showers and severe weather during periods of high temperatures. That’s why local driveway sealcoat contractors pay special attention during those months.

That being said, it’s typically wise to take advantage of warm weather days with full sunlight. A sealcoat can dry within a few hours when applied in direct sunlight on a warm day. Depending on the product, property owners may be able to walk on their driveway as soon as 4 hours after the process has been completed. In terms of driving an automobile on the newly coated surface, the soonest advisable usage is about 24 hours. Most surfaces require a minimum of 48 hours before vehicles can drive over them without negatively impacting the work. However, if weather conditions are not optimal, it may be in your best interest to stay off the driveway for at least 72 hours.

When Can a Driveway Sealcoat Handle Everyday Use?

It’s essential for property owners to understand that a significant difference exists between walking, driving, and unfettered use. While a fast-drying asphalt sealcoat product can hasten light usage, most materials take much longer to fully cure. It’s not unusual for driveways to require upwards of 30 days before property owners enjoy carefree usage. That’s largely because asphalt sealcoat products may not have hardened enough to withstand oil and fuel staining. A product that has not necessarily completely cured could be negatively impacted by turning car or truck tires in place or hard impacts. The critical point is that home and business owners would be wise to take precautions during the first month to ensure the surface isn’t compromised.

Driveway Sealcoat Best Practices Make A Difference

For an asphalt sealcoat to effectively dry and cure, best practices must be observed. Temperatures should not generally fall below 50 degrees and driveways must be perfectly dry before applying products. Sunny days with low humidity maximize dry times and support effective curing. Never consider applying a driveway sealcoat if the forecast indicates a rain threat within 8-12 hours. If severe weather has been forecast, it may be prudent to postpone the work. Asphalt sealcoat best practices help shorten the time your driveway will be sidelined.

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What Type of Concrete Is Used for Driveways?

If you are thinking about adding a driveway or repairing your current one, then you are probably wondering what type of concrete is going to be used. The reality is that there are many different types and mixes of concrete. Therefore, the right mixture for one job might not be ideal for a different job. If you are thinking about installing a concrete driveway, then you need to consider the strength of the concrete, its air entrainment rating, its overall size, and even its slump rating. This is why it is a good idea to reach out to a concrete company for help. When it comes to concrete for your driveway, there are a few points to keep in mind.

The Characteristics That Define Concrete for a Driveway

If you are looking for concrete for your driveway, then you need to make sure that you find concrete that is going to be able to withstand the weight of vehicle traffic. Ideally, you need concrete that can stand up to 4,000 pounds per square inch for your driveway. During the cold winter, you also need to look for a concrete mix that has a six percent air-entrainment value. This will create small bubbles in the mix of concrete, providing water in the concrete a place to go when it freezes and expands.

In addition, in order to make the installation process easier, you need to think about the slump rating. Slump is a measurement of the workability and thickness of the concrete once it has been mix. You are looking for a slump rating of around 4 to 5 inches in order to make the installation process easier.

The Installation Process of Concrete for Driveways

Before your driveway can be poured, a contractor has to make sure that the site is prepared properly. This means providing a smooth, firm base upon which the concrete can be poured. Once the site has been formed properly, it is time to mix the concrete with water. Usually, ready-made concrete is used for concrete driveways because it meets many of the characteristics above. Once the mix is ready, the contractor will pour the wet concrete into the driveway, using shovels and rakes to ensure the concrete is laid out properly.

Once the concrete has been poured, it is going to be troweled and finished. This will make sure the final product looks appropriate. Finally, the concrete has to be cured as well. The curing process could last as long as 28 days, with the first few days being the most critical. This will harden the surface, allowing it to withstand the stress of routine foot and vehicle traffic. Then, the concrete driveway is finished.

Rely on an Experienced Concrete Company for Help Installing a Concrete Driveway

These are just a few of the most important points that you need to keep in mind if you are looking for concrete for your driveway. You need to make sure that you find the right concrete that is going to allow your driveway to withstand not only the elements but also routine vehicle traffic. Then, you need to find a contractor who understands the process of installing a concrete driveway. If you have a concrete project in the near future, you need to reach out to an experienced concrete company for help. That way, you can ensure that the project is completed properly the first time around.