Cracked Driveway? Say Toodles

A cracked, crumbling and pitted driveway is an eyesore. It significantly takes away from that "wow" you want in your curb appeal. It can lower the overall value of the home, creating bad vibes before anyone sets foot in the house. It is also a danger, promoting the possibility of falls on your property.

Many property owners ignore the issue because of the expense. They don't consider the longer they let the condition persist, the worse it's going to get. And the more it's going to cost to repair.

The production is less expensive than you believe. The ROI of correcting the problem sooner rather than later is having perfect pathways, a great look, increased home value and confidence in the idea that your home looks outstanding.

How does your driveway get cracked in the first place

Extremely porous concrete acts like a sponge. Too much water is concrete's kryptonite. When excessive amounts get in, water washes away soil that supports the concrete. Yet, too little causes soil to shrink. (Let's consider you get a little of both over time.) Add in colder months when water freezes and thaws, and the process makes your driveway (and other concrete surfaces) pit, crumble and crack.

Salt doesn't help. It accelerates the freeze and thaw production, which corrodes concrete and assists in the breakdown.

So, what's the answer?

The answer is sealing concrete surfaces. Curiously, homeowners are ready to seal up everything from windows to indoor concrete floors. But a lot of homeowners don't consider the solution for their outdoor concrete.

The benefits of sealing concrete include the following.

Moisture repellant

Concrete is a compound known for its strength. But exposure to constant moisture will damage it internally and gradually until you see the damage. Another threat is the moisture causing moss or mold. A sealing aggregate helps keep moisture out and prevents damage and bacteria growth.

Minimize cracking

Cracks and frosts play a big role in the breakdown of your outdoor surfaces. If you want to prevent those heaves on your paths, a well-set layer of protective sealant will fill the smallest holes. You've now created a long-term upgrade that prevents cracking and other deterioration.

Deters fading

Color progressively fades in concrete even if the eye doesn't see it. A good contractor like Nelson Landscaping in Oklahoma City uses sealant to manage the color of exposed and stamped aggregate concrete. Sealing keeps surfaces looking new and vibrant longer.

Stain resistance

You don't want to merely seal; you want to beautify. Concrete sealing ensures your patio, garage, driveways and pool deck are always up to par. You won't worry about working on the car or chemicals staining concrete. You only have to wipe the stain, and everything's good as new.

Why go with a professional concrete sealing service?

Concrete sealing deserves a professional hand with the experience and equipment that goes along with it to protect different concrete surfaces. There are varying types of sealants, and a professional has the background to get it right.

TheHomeMag is your reliable resource for improving, upgrading and maintaining your concrete surfaces. To keep abreast of the latest in home maintenance, follow us on Instagram and Facebook.

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