A new driveway can be a big expense if you opt for something labour-intensive like block paving. But even if you only have a concrete driveway, it makes sense to take care of it.

After all, a well-maintained driveway can add kerb appeal when the time comes to sell and be less likely to develop cracks and holes that send Great Aunt Agnes straight to A&E.

Maintenance needs will vary according to the type of driveway you have, but some must-do tasks are essential. Read on for a useful guide to keeping your driveway in tip-top condition.

Block Paved Driveways

A block paved driveway will look amazing when it is first laid, but in time, without due care and attention, block paving is prone to weeds. If left unchecked, weeds and grass growing will damage the mortar and lift the blocks, which leads to further damage.

Always remove weeds and grass before they take root. Pull up by hand or use a weed-killer preparation. Keep your driveway swept so soil, leave debris, and dirt doesn’t collect in between the blocks, as this will create the perfect growing environment for hardy weeds.

Be careful if you use a pressure washer to clean your drive. Hot water and a stiff brush are better, but even that may damage or loosen blocks.

If there are stains, avoid using chemical stain removal solutions, as they could damage and discolour the stone. Speak to a driveways Birmingham expert for advice before you tackle any problems with your block paved driveway or are considering replacing it.

Concrete Driveways

Concrete is a popular material for driveways as it is often cheaper. When done as a professional installation, concrete can look attractive, but proper maintenance is key. It is also crucial to seal a concrete driveway, to prevent damage and excessive wear and tear. Even if you haven’t previously sealed your concrete driveway, it isn’t too late. Clean the surface first and then apply the sealant. It should be reapplied every few years, according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Don’t use de-icer solutions on a concrete driveway, as they damage the surface. Salt will also cause damage. Instead, buy a bag of cheap cat litter and sprinkle this around. Sand is just as effective.

Always treat stains before they have a chance to soak in. Soak up greasy liquids using sand, cat litter, or sawdust. Pressure washing will remove most stains if done quickly enough.

If you spot any damage in the concrete, patch the area before it gets worse.

Gravel Driveways

Gravel is a cheap and cheerful driveway material, but weeds can be a problem. Rake over the gravel regularly and remove weeds. This will also prevent the gravel from becoming too uneven. Apply a weed-killing solution to make it harder for problem weeds like dandelions to take hold.

Look after your driveway and it will continue to do a great job, but if yours is looking well past its best, consider upgrading to a new driveway.

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My “regular” formats are in 400+ million to 2 trillion years (rightmost column). And I rotate them.

Your’s?

(H/T Reddit)

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With property prices higher than ever, it often makes more sense to renovate a home rather than upgrade to a new one. If your home is a good fit for you, but you’d like a bit of extra room or the layout doesn’t work as well as you’d like, a renovation project could save you money while still giving you the home of your dreams.

Decide What You Want from the Project

Only fools rush into home renovation projects. While it is easy to get excited about paint swatches, interior design, and home furnishings, it’s also easy to lose sight of what you are trying to achieve with the project.

Sit down with the family and discuss what you are hoping to gain by renovating some or all of the property. Do you need more living space? An extra bedroom? Or is the current décor hopelessly outdated and in need of a style refresh?

Make mood boards and spend time on sites like Houzz to see what inspires you and what turns you off. Speak to a Luxury Interior Designer in London if you think professional help is needed. An interior designer could come up with ideas you would never have considered or provide solutions to tricky layout problems.

Have a Budget and Stick to It

Any fan of Grand Designs will know common it is for people to blow their budget while renovating a property. It takes time and effort to manage all the many expenses and a lot of willpower to avoid being seduced by pretty designer furniture and stylish appliances.

Have a budget and stick to it. Don’t be tempted to spend more than you can afford. Build a contingency fund into the budget to allow for unexpected expenses, as something will inevitably come to light you haven’t planned for.

Make sure at least one person in your house is good with numbers and willing to manage the budget. Alternatively, hire a project manager to do it for you.

Be Prepared for the Disruption

Renovation projects are messy and cause a lot of disruption. Even when you think it will only take a few weeks, invariably, something goes wrong, materials are delayed, the weather is terrible, or a contractor lets you down. If you expect the worst, you don’t be disappointed!

Ideally, have somewhere else you can stay while the renovation project is taking place. Put everything out of the way in a garage or rooms unaffected by the work. Check with the contractors to make sure they are doing everything possible to minimise the mess, such as fixing plastic sheets over doorways and only using one entry point.

If you do have to live in the property while work is being carried out, be prepared to set up a temporary kitchen or ask a friend to look after your pets. It won’t be easy but there is light at the end of the tunnel!

Quality home renovations can add value and make a home more liveable. It’s a great idea to consider a renovation project if your existing home already ticks most boxes.

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