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Your Guide to Winter Driveway Maintenance
Winter weather brings snow and ice to your driveway, along with the challenge of keeping it clear and safe. Unfortunately, some common practices and products can do more harm than good.
Failing to properly maintain your driveway during the winter months can cause it to need repaving on an earlier timetable. And a cracked, damaged driveway not only looks bad but also negatively affects the value of your home. Our real estate agents suggest following these guidelines when you're performing winter driveway maintenance:
- Clean Your Driveway in Advance
Thoroughly clean your driveway before any snow or ice forms on it. Start by picking up sticks and sweeping away fallen leaves, stones, and any other debris. Then give your pavement a good pressure washing, and if you have any stains that are set in, apply a chemical remover. - Fix Any Cracks
Cracks and holes in your driveway can become even bigger after snowy or icy weather. This occurs because as freezing moisture seeps into the cracks, it freezes and expands. This causes even more damage to your pavement, and as you step on or drive over the spot, it's likely to become even larger. That's why you should inspect your driveway before freezing precipitation occurs and call a professional paver to fix any holes or cracks. - Seal Your Driveway Regularly
Apply a coat of sealant to your driveway every two to five years, or hire a company to do it. This gives your pavement an extra layer of protection against damage and decay. Edge your driveway. Remove two to four inches of grass and dirt from alongside your driveway by edging it. That way, water and snowmelt will be able to drain away from your driveway. - Consider Your Gutter Spouts
If any of your gutter spouts point toward your driveway, move them, so they're pointed away from the pavement. Otherwise, falling rain that may later freeze, as well as melting snow and ice, will pour onto your driveway and freeze, possibly causing damage as well as a safety hazard. - Choose a Less Harsh De-Icer
You're likely to find many types of de-icer at your local hardware store or big-box retailers. Rock salt (sodium chloride) is one of the most popular, but it's a harsh chemical. Instead, choose a safer, less corrosive alternative like potassium chloride or magnesium calcium acetate. - Use the Right Kind of Shovel
When you're shoveling snow off of your driveway, avoid regular metal shovels since they can leave damaging marks on your driveway. Instead, buy one that's rubber-bladed. Avoid hitting your driveway with it by keeping it a half-inch to an inch away from your driveway's surface as you shovel.
If you're interested in buying or selling a home in Livingston County, MI, or have other real estate needs, contact us today. We have provided high-quality service to area residents for over 35 years and would love to help you with your real estate transactions!