Driveways
Signs your driveway needs replacing
Driveways take a lot of punishment — cars, weather, roots and years of wear. Some problems can be fixed; others point to a failing base that no amount of patching will cure. Here's what to look out for.
1. Wide or spreading cracks
Hairline cracks in tarmac or concrete are common. Cracks that keep widening, spread like a spider's web or have raised edges usually mean movement in the base.
2. Sinking or dips
Dips where you park or along wheel tracks suggest the sub-base wasn't built or compacted for the load.
3. Puddles that won't drain
Water sitting on the surface for hours after rain points to poor falls, a blocked drain or a base that's moved. Water heading towards the house needs sorting quickly.
4. Loose, rocking or spreading blocks
Block paving that rocks underfoot or edges that have spread outwards usually means failed edging or base.
5. Constant weeds
A few weeds are normal; weeds everywhere, with joints that are empty, usually means the paving has opened up.
6. Crumbling edges and potholes
Broken edges on tarmac and concrete often follow a lack of edging restraint. Potholes let water into the base, making things worse each winter.
7. It just doesn't suit your needs
Need more parking, better access or a smarter frontage? Sometimes the best reason to replace is that your home has outgrown the drive.
Repair or replace?
If the problems are local and the base is sound, a repair may be enough. If they're widespread, replacing with proper groundwork is usually better value long term. We'll give you an honest view at a free survey.
