Smooth Paving
Written by Elizabeth Wood
Editor In Chief, United Home Improvement

The appearance of your driveway and landscape paints an idea about who lives within those walls. The more you plan ahead, the greater the picture will be. Before designing and installing your pavement projects and repairs, there are few things to consider. First you must decide what material to use; asphalt, concrete, gravel, etc. Once you have selected a material, you must then decide whether this is a do-it-yourself project or will you need a paving contractor. Once you, or a contractor, have installed or repaired your pavement, you must then learn how to maintain it.

Before selecting a pavement material for a new site, you must take both aesthetics and personal needs into account. Think not only about what you want your pavement to look like, but also about how you plan to use your new pavement. It is fun to think of patterns, but smart to think of practicality. For example, if you are installing a driveway, using concrete or asphalt will give you the versatility and durability needed. Concrete is also wonderful for people using wheel chairs or walkers. Brick and stone are commonly used to create walk ways, walls and other landscape designs. Make sure that before you install materials such as brick and stone that you are taking into consideration how well your ground drains. It is extremely important to know about the removal and disposal of water from your pavement because access drainage may cause such materials to descend into the soil.

Once you have selected an appealing and practical material, and the pattern of your liking, you must decide if this is a job for you or for a paving contractor. Some of the easiest pavement projects include fixing cracks, filling holes, creating stepping stones and laying brick. Anyone with a little guidance and direction can handle these jobs. On the other hand, installing driveways where surface drainage and pipes need to be carefully examined, often a skilled contractor will get the job done quicker and more efficiently. When deciding on who should install your pavement, ask yourself two questions. Do you feel more comfortable saving yourself immediate money by installing the pavement yourself with the chances of improper installation and costs creeping up on you later? Or would you rather get the job done right the first time and worry about maintaining your pavement as opposed to worrying about re-installing it?

If designed and built correctly, the last thing you will need to know is how to maintain your pavement. Concrete typically needs the least amount of maintenance. Asphalt usually needs the most. Cracks and holes should be filled immediately with asphalt. Both concrete and asphalt fall victims to grease and oils. Make sure to use pressure nozzle hoses and scrubbers to clear away grease and oils. In addition, asphalt will need to be coated with a sealant every 2-3 years. For more information on pavement projects and repairs, request for a no-obligation quote. Our skilled professionals can help you with everything from selecting a material to installations, and even tips on how to maintain your pavement.

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