HomeMy WebLinkAboutThe Citizen, 2016-10-27, Page 21THE CITIZEN, THURSDAY, OCTOBER 27, 2016. PAGE 21.
Driveway maintenance, repairs can add curb appeal
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Ongoing maintenance
Driveways need maintenance just like any other part of a
home to make sure they remain functional and good
looking. (MS photo)
MS - Though they are often easy
to overlook, driveways are durable
parts of a home that can greatly
impact a home's curb appeal.
Driveways endure quite a bit of wear
and tear over their lifespans, and
homeowners who have not given
their driveways much thought may
want to start looking for potential
trouble signs that indicate a need for
some driveway maintenance.
Seasonal de
NC - Changing up the look of
your home with the seasons and
holidays is fun, keeps things
fresh, and ensures your home
is on trend. But a complete
overhaul can be expensive and
unrealistic.
Fortunately, there are simple ways
to keep a solid foundation in your
space that can easily be revamped
no matter what mood or style the
calendar calls for.
• Power of neutrals: Key core
pieces are best in neutral shades that
go with everything. They don't have
to be boring white or basic beige,
but think of warm tans and cool
greys. Black, always in fashion,
adds instant sophistication, while a
navy blue or deep green can work as
a modern neutral. This goes for
carpeting, walls and pricier
furnishings.
According to HomeAdvisor, the
average cost of a driveway
installation in 2015 was just under
$3,700. Those costs are influenced
by a host of factors, including the
size of the driveway and the material
it's made of. Damaged driveways do
not necessarily need to be replaced,
as some may just need minor
repairs. But homeowners who see
any of the following trouble signs in
coration tips
• Add pops of colour with
accents: Inexpensive decorative
elements are a great way to bring in
bolder hues and seasonal flair. Swap
Continued on page 22
their driveways may want to consult
a professional contractor to
determine what their next steps
should be.
• Potholes: Potholes might be
most often associated with heavily
trafficked roadways, but even
driveways are susceptible to
potholes. As the ground beneath the
driveway expands and contracts, the
pavement above that ground
weakens and becomes more
susceptible to damage. That damage
may ultimately lead to large chunks
of the driveway breaking down,
creating holes as a result.
Homeowners who live in areas that
experience heavy snowfall may see
their driveways develop potholes
after they are shovelled or plowed.
Potholes that are not fixed may
damage vehicles that drive on the
pavement, and potholes may even
expand over time.
• Accumulation of water:
Puddles that form during a rainstorm
may not be indicative of anything
other than a rainy day. But water that
pools or runs down the middle of the
driveway may indicate drainage
problems. Such problems may be
the result of structural problems with
the slope of the driveway, which can
cause bigger issues down the road.
When water is not absorbed into the
ground or directed away from your
home, it can then flow into the
house, potentially making your
garage or home susceptible to water
damage.
• Cracks: Cracking is one of the
more noticeable issues that can
plague driveways. Many driveways
experience cracking as materials
inevitably succumb to the elements.
Driveway cracks may develop for
various reasons, including poor
initial installation. Tree roots that
grow beneath the driveway surface
may also contribute to cracking as
the driveways ultimately succumb to
the pressure created by the growing
roots. Some cracks may prove less
problematic than others, but
homeowners should still speak with
a contractor if they notice their
driveway is starting to succumb to
cracks.
Driveways may not draw the
attention of homeowners too often,
but damaged driveways that go
ignored may ultimately lead to very
costly problems.
Scott McDonald
General Carpenter
. � ,ions
Clearview fleROV
Fully Licensed Carpenter
Over 10 Years Experience!
42475 Moncrieff Rd.,
R.R. #2 Blyth, ON NOM 1HO
519.955.1215
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