The new layer of cement applied to your driveway can give it a fresh look after years of fading and cracking. Completely replacing an entry means that the new entry should last between 15 to 20 years, while the thin layer of cement can last between 8 and 15 years. The number of years will depend on the quality of the material used and the environmental conditions experienced by the coating. It is important to note that the coating must be resealed every 5 to 7 years, depending on the type of materials used and the type of finish used in the coating.
Before you start breaking down concrete or asphalt, call a professional to make sure the weather is right for placing your new driveway. If your existing concrete slab has very large cracks, deep cracks, or has very uneven areas, you may need to tear it down and start from scratch. It's best to consult with an experienced concrete contractor who can view your property and give you a professional opinion. A concrete coating will not last on a surface that is not viable.
However, after years of exposure to the elements, as well as pedestrian and vehicular traffic, your concrete driveway may start to look worse from all that wear and tear. A coating compound has a special adhesive agent within its mixture that allows it to bond with old concrete. The concrete coating removes the top layer of a concrete slab and then pours a new coating layer. Repairing or repaving an asphalt driveway does not remove the aging asphalt underneath.
Whether you decide to repair the cracks or replace the entire driveway, maintenance is key to helping your driveway last a couple of decades. While it's possible to repave your concrete driveway yourself, it's not a simple DIY to take lightly. This is a cheaper option than replacing, but it will cost more than patching or repairing individual cracks and potholes, as the cost will apply to the full length and width of your doorway. Then, with a long-handled squeegee, spread the material back and forth along the inlet, effectively rubbing the grinder into the concrete.
If you've decided that re-paving concrete is the way to go, the preparation stage is absolutely crucial.
