How to Restore a Driveway

Concrete

• Concrete driveways can last for decades, but weather damage and frequent use can lead to frost-heave damage, oil stains and other eyesores. Concrete is difficult and laborious to remove, but relatively simple to restore. Always patch cracks and pits, and thoroughly clean the surface to prepare it. Cover the surface with a 1/4- to 1-inch thick overlay to give the surface a polished appearance and increase stability. Once the overlay hardens, fill the porous material with a deep, penetrating sealant to repel moisture.

Pavers

• Paver driveways either are installed over mortar or on a bed of sharp-grit sand, and the joints are filled with fine polymeric sand. Over time, the sand joints wear away, weeds can develop through the joints or the pavers shift out of place. Restoring a paver driveway entails removing damaged pavers, replenishing the leveling sand or mortar underneath and setting new pavers. Replenish all of the joints with polymeric paver sand and seal the surface to slow fading and conserve the sand joints. Repair or replace the edge restraints to help lock the new surface in position.

Gravel

• Gravel driveways are practical and affordable, but they require more regular maintenance than paved driveways. Although gravel is compacted, the pressure from vehicles tends to push rocks into berms, or mounds, along the sides of the driveway. These berms affect drainage and create an uneven surface. Restore a gravel driveway by raking any stray rocks from the lawn. Attach a metal frame to the back of a vehicle and drive down the driveway a few times to scrape the surface flat. Evenly spread the gravel and rake it into a crown so the highest part goes down the center. Add timber, stone or another type of edging to the sides to contain the gravel and block weeds from growing through the driveway.

Asphalt

• While laying asphalt typically is a project for professionals with proper equipment, restoring an existing surface is a straightforward do-it-yourself task. Once you thoroughly clean the surface and scrub off any grease or oil stains, fill any cracks or pits with cold patch compound. Tamp the compound and wait for it to dry before sealing the entire pavement with asphalt resurfacing sealant.