Public safety and liability are key motivators for repairing uneven paved areas, because they are a tripping hazard. And improperly maintained walks, patios and driveways deteriorate more quickly, hastening the need for expensive repairs.
Time — 15 to 30 minutes
Difficulty — Easy
Expertise — None
Frequency — Once a year
Where— All US
Steps
- Look for the following hazards and deterioration:
- Sections that have cracked and heaved
- Steps in walks or patios that are irregular in height, or steps that are small, or at odd intervals
- Low spots that trap water in winter, creating a slip hazard
- Crumbling asphalt
- Fill in low spots with sand or soil.
- Replace pavers, paying careful attention to cutting and leveling.
- If your driveway or patio slopes toward your house, equip the catch basin or outlet pipe with an elbow that faces down, to prevent floating debris from clogging the drain pipe.
- Fill cracks and potholes, or hire a professional to repair them.
- Seal the surface annually to prevent further damage.
Tips and Warnings
Fluids leaking from a car can seriously damage asphalt. Sealing the surface of an asphalt driveway can prevent damage for a while, but you should have the car repaired.
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