Driveway Maintenance Guide: Expert Advice for Preventing Cracks and Potholes

Driveways are often overlooked when it comes to maintenance. After all, as long as you can get your car in the garage or the driveway, everything is fine. Not so fast! Driveways require routine upkeep and maintenance just like your backyard or garden. Below, we offer tips to keep in mind to keep your driveway in tip-top shape.

Fix small cracks now

If you already notice small driveway cracks, fill them with cement. Shrub roots and tree roots can cause small cracks to form over time. By taking care of minor issues now, you'll prevent more significant ones from developing later on.

Don't plant shrubs or trees too close to your driveway

Don't plant new trees or bushes too close to your driveway. If there are shrubs or trees already in your driveway, keep them pruned, and see if a landscape professional can help you trim roots without damaging the trees or shrubs. Also, avoid landscaping mistakes that could affect your driveway at some point.

Don't use salt on your driveway

Avoid using salt or deicers on your driveway. These products cause surface cracks by going right through tiny openings in your driveway's pavement or cement. Instead, use a shovel or snowblower to remove ice and snow. And be careful with the blades of the snowblower. Set it to a higher level so that you don't scrape your driveway. 

Park away from the edges

Cars or trucks can easily damage the edges of your driveway. Be careful to park your vehicles in the center of the driveway. If you need to have anything delivered in a larger vehicle, ask the driver to park in the middle of the driveway or on the street. Once cracks start at the edge, they tend to move into the center of the driveway over time.

Clean your driveway regularly

Motor oil can penetrate cement over time and soften it, as can pavement. Prevent driveway issues of this nature by cleaning your driveway regularly to remove oil and other vehicle fluids from the surface. Soap and water usually do the trick. Baking soda can help, too, as can a mixture of white vinegar and water.

Be careful with water on your driveway

When you do clean your driveway, be careful with the water you leave behind. Use a broom to sweep off excess water. Standing water gets into cement and causes cracks to develop. It can also weaken spots already affected by age. Do the same thing after heavy rains or snowfalls. Also, be sure downspouts pour into your yard and not onto your driveway.

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