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Driveway Repairs That You Can Absolutely DIY

If you're like most people, you probably don't think too much about your driveway. It's just there, doing its job of getting your car from point A to point B. But if it's starting to look a little worse for wear, or if you've got a big project coming up and need to do some repairs, then it's time to take a closer look. There are a lot of driveway repairs that you can DIY, and we'll cover everything from fixing cracks and potholes to resurfacing your driveway entirely. So whether your driveway is in bad shape or just needs a little TLC, we've got you covered.




Repairing Cracks and Holes

One of the most common driveway repairs is filling in cracks and holes. This can be done with an asphalt patching compound, or you can use a cold mix asphalt patch for larger areas. To repair cracks or holes, make sure to clean out any debris first and then fill the area with your chosen mixture until it's level with the surrounding surface. One thing that you will most certainly need in such a DIY project is concrete hand grinders that can help you prepare the surface and ensure that the patch is even with the driveway. In addition to the grinders, you also need to make sure that you have a tamper or roller to press the patch down firmly.


Resurfacing

Resurfacing is another DIY driveway repair project that can help your driveway look as good as new. You will need to use an asphalt resurfacer, which is a mixture of gravel, sand, and liquid asphalt. Start by cleaning out any cracks or divots in the surface of your driveway and then apply the resurfacer over the entire area with a squeegee or broom. Once it's dry (which usually takes about 24 hours), you can add a sealer for extra protection against wear and tear. If you're worried about compatibility with your old driveway, you can always check with a professional asphalt contractor before beginning the resurfacing process.


Installing a New Driveway

If your driveway is completely beyond repair, you can always install a new one. This process is fairly similar to resurfacing but it's more involved. First, you'll need to remove the old driveway material and then prepare the surface for installation by removing any debris and leveling out the area. Once that's done, you can lay down a base layer of gravel and compact it with a roller or tamper. Then add additional layers of gravel until it reaches your desired height, compacting each layer as you go. Finally, top off the driveway with an asphalt mix and use a squeegee or broom to spread it out evenly.


Sealing

A great way to give your driveway extra protection against the elements is to seal it. This process involves applying a special sealant over the entire surface of your driveway and allowing it to cure for several hours or days, depending on the product you use. Sealing can help protect against water damage and cracking, as well as make your driveway look shiny and new again.


Replacing Driveway Edges

The edges of your driveway are especially vulnerable to wear and tear because they're constantly exposed to traffic, weather, and other factors. If you notice that the edges of your driveway are starting to crack or crumble, then it's time to replace them. The best way to do this is with pre-cast concrete pavers – these come in various sizes and shapes so you can easily find something to match the existing edges of your driveway. To install, simply remove any debris from the area and then set the pavers in place, making sure that they are level with the rest of your driveway.


Installing Drainage

Driveway drainage is an important part of maintaining your driveway and keeping it looking good. If you don't have a proper drainage system in place, then water can pool around the edges of your driveway or start to seep into cracks and cause further damage. To avoid this problem, install a drainage system that will help keep water away from your driveway and ensure that it stays in good condition for years to come. This usually requires digging trenches around the perimeter of your driveway and filling them with gravel or crushed stone before covering them with dirt or soil.



No matter what kind of DIY project you take on for your driveway repairs, make sure to follow all safety precautions and use only quality materials for the best possible results. With a little bit of elbow grease, you'll be able to make your driveway look as good as new in no time.