When it comes to driveway repair, waiting is not an option. Waiting too long to address a problem can result in the problem itself getting bigger and causing further issues. More importantly, if not taken care of in a timely manner, homeowners can end up paying more than expected on repairing their asphalt driveway.
If saving money is your concern, there are some things that can be done without hiring a contractor. In some cases, however, a professional is necessary to get the job done, and in the correct way. To help you understand what jobs you can do and when to start pricing for contractors, here is what you need to know.
Small DIY Driveway Repairs
Cracks and holes in certain areas of your concrete driveway are simply filling fixes you can perform on your own. To fix these issues, concrete caulk a great temporary solution to keep the cracks from spreading and causing more issues. It also keeps water from getting in and is recommended to use just before winter. Deep cracks can be filled in with sand to stop water from getting in an expanding when it freezes.
After repairing the area, make sure to cover the area with a plastic sheet for about a week. You want the area to stay as damp as possible. You may also want to consider adding a layer of masonry paint to blend the repaired area with the rest of the driveway.
Problems That Require a Professional
Most homeowners want to save wherever they can when it comes to repairs and maintenance for their home. While this is understandable, some concrete repairs, like sunken driveways, need the expertise of a professional contractor. Most concrete driveways that suffer from sinking is caused by sub-base erosion and require a fresh coat of concrete under the surface.
While the process may seem fairly simple, it can be very costly if not done correctly. In the case that the small crack or series of cracks becomes a greater problem, invest the money in a contractor for a permanent solution.
Now that you know what repairs you can perform on your own and when to seek driveway repairs from an expert, you can better manage your home. It is understandable that as a homeowner, you want to save money. Considering that being a homeowner comes with many decisions, knowing when to seek the advice of a professional is crucial to your goal of saving money. If not, you could be in for a lot more than you bargained for.