If you own a home in the Houston area, there is a good chance that you have a concrete driveway. One reason for the disparity between concrete driveways and asphalt driveways in this part of the country has to do with the climate. If you have ever traveled in states such as North Dakota or Minnesota, you may have noticed an abundance of asphalt driveways. Since asphalt is more flexible than concrete, it can withstand the repeated hard freezes common in those areas better than concrete. However, in the Houston area, the freeze/thaw cycle is of less importance than the high temperatures encountered during the summer months. A driveway is a relatively small area of pavement, making it easier for intense heat to soften the asphalt temporarily and allow stationary loads — such as parked cars — to mar the surface. If you have a concrete driveway, however, there are a few points that you should keep in mind.
Concrete Driveways – Maintenance Is Required
Concrete driveways can have a useful life of 30 years or more, but they need to be given occasional attention to reach their full life span and remain attractive throughout. If cracks or other signs of damage occur, have a professional make the necessary repairs as soon as possible to prevent additional damage. Clean leaked oil, transmission fluid and other automotive fluids regularly to prevent permanent staining. Keep vegetation trimmed so that it does not allow water to pool around the edges of your driveway.
Special Considerations for Concrete Driveways
If you plan to plant trees, consider how far the roots will spread as they grow. Tree roots are a frequent cause of cracked or uplifted concrete. Although different species have different root spreads, a general rule is that the roots of most trees will extend about twice the tree’s height. For example, a tree that grows to 50 feet can put out horizontal roots that extend 100 feet. Trees that develop deep taproots or dwarf varieties are often better options to plant near a concrete driveway.
Concrete driveways need proper drainage to optimize longevity and appearance, so make sure that your downspouts are directed away from your driveway. If you notice water pooling on top of your driveway, you should consult a dependable contractor. There are numerous solutions that can be used to improve drainage. For example, curbs can be installed to channel runoff or prevent runoff from neighboring properties.
LDC Paving offers a variety of paving services, including the repair of concrete driveways in Houston, TX. We have the experience, skills and knowledge to provide you with quality work at reasonable prices. We offer a wide variety of pavement-related services, including concrete repair, curbing, asphalt paving, sealcoating, pavement markings, asphalt overlays and parking lot maintenance. Call (832) 640-7296 to request a free estimate or complete the online form.