Extreme weather can pose a problem for our homes, and while we try to protect our houses from winter home damages, we tend to forget about the outdoor structures.
During winter, you should be worried about your driveway damages. Driveways are usually made from concrete and asphalt, and they easily get damaged during extreme weather conditions.
These damages do not take away from the durability of these materials. Asphalt and concrete remain one of the most durable materials for outdoor structures, but the truth remains that they are susceptible to damage under harsh weather conditions. So as winter is coming closer, you have to start taking measures to protect your outdoor structures from these effects. This article will show you a few ways to do that, but first, let’s talk about why these cracks occur.
Why Does Your OUtdoor Structures Crack During Winter?
Except if it is sealed properly, your concrete structures are porous. The implication is that water can find its way under the surface, and these pools of water will contract and expand and cause your concrete to crack.
While asphalt is more resistant to this cracking than concrete, it is still prone to cracks, especially during the winter when the water under its surface freezes and swells.
So How Do You Prevent These Cracks?
Let us now look at measures that you can take to prevent driveway damage. The best way to do this is to invest in protective measures. Let us look at some of these measures.
1. Handle Already Existing Cracks
Maybe your driveway already has cracks, and you are looking for ways to prevent further damage. The first step to take would be to repair already-existing driveway damage. Do not ignore cracks because they look tiny. They could cause serious problems.
To repair driveway damage, you have to clean up the driveway first. You can also do some power washing and allow the driveway to dry before you start repairs. After cleaning, you should look for hairline cracks and fix these first. You can fix them with a crack filler in a caulking gun. It is easy to do and will last for a while.
When dealing with larger cracks, you can use a concrete mix for concrete structures or asphalt patchers for asphalt driveways. Ensure you clear every loose piece before you start patching your large cracks.
Another factor you should consider when dealing with cracks is the weather. Particular temperature levels are perfect for filling cracks. This might get confusing, so ensure you contact professional outdoor contractors like the ones at Agape Home Services to get proper knowledge and help fix your driveway damage.
2. Regular Maintenance Of Your Driveway
Maintaining your driveway is another way you can prevent cracks. Ensure you effectively get rid of stains as soon as they appear. You can see it as fun DIY projects. The best method is to pressure wash the driveway. However, it would be best if you were careful of the chemicals you use so that you do not end up causing more harm than good.
Maintaining your driveway does more than prevent cracks. It also adds to the overall beauty of your home.
3. Use Driveway Sealers
These are sealants that will protect your outdoor structures from cracks. They prevent driveway damage and aid longevity. Depending on the type of driveway you have, you might need different sealers, but they all do the same thing.
These sealants can protect your driveway from stains, but most importantly, they prevent cracks. They do this by repelling the number one cause of driveway damage, water.
Sealants are easily applied, but you have to ensure your driveway is clean. If you are not confident enough to handle it, you could outsource the work to outdoor home contractors. After application, allow the sealant to set properly, and your driveway will be protected from cracks for a few years.
4. Ensure Your Driveway Has Proper Drainage
Without proper drainage, you are putting your driveway in harm’s way. A poor drainage system could lead to water puddles, and you already know what water does to driveways. Proper drainage is necessary for preventing cracks on your driveway. Check if your drainage is working well and if it is not, contact contractors to advise you on the best steps.
If you follow the steps mentioned here, you have sufficiently protected your driveway from damage. If you have done it properly and taken the time to prevent indoor winter effects, you are fully protected against winter home damages. If you want to fix winter home damage and you do not know how to do it, it might be best to contact contractors who are experts in this field to help you. Do not neglect the integrity of your outdoor structures. It is the first thing people see before they enter your home, and it should have a positive and long-lasting impression.
