A new driveway can boost your property’s value between 5%-10%, Forbes reports. So, for example, if your home’s worth £400,000, a new driveway can bump its value up to £440,000. And, keeping your driveway in clean and tidy condition can further improve your home’s curb appeal. With the right supplies and techniques, you can ensure your driveway stays in tip-top condition and reaches its maximum potential.
Clear away debris
It’s natural for dirt and mud to accumulate on your driveway over time, and, unfortunately, this debris ends up drying out and hardening like rock. A hard-bristle push broom and garden hose can be used to remove this debris — although it can be a time-consuming process.
First, sweep away any loose dirt before spraying stubborn mud with water. Leave it to soak for a couple of minutes, and then use the broom to loosen and break up the mud. Continue with this process and spray liberally with water as needed until the job’s done.
Alternatively, a pressure washer can easily remove stubborn dirt and debris (including mould and moss), and save you a lot of time and effort. In particular, professional pressure washing services are commonly used by businesses as a quick and effective way to eliminate unsightly dirt, oil, and grime. Commercial-level pressure washing can help ensure an immaculate exterior and a good first impression.
Tackle tire marks
Stubborn tire marks a common problem for driveways (concrete more so than asphalt). Fortunately, tire marks can be eliminated with the right tools and some elbow grease. Start by spraying any tire marks on your driveway with a degreaser, solvent, or chemical stripper, and leave the solution to soak in for a few minutes and dissolve the marks.
Next, use a stiff-bristle brush to scrub away the marks before using your garden hose or power washer to blast away the residue. If any marks remain, you can repeat the process until they disappear.
Get rid of organic matter and stains
Organic matter, such as, leaves, pine needles, and mulch should be swept off your driveway as soon as possible. If it’s left to decompose, organic matter naturally releases tannin, which ends up staining your driveway (although is otherwise completely harmless).
Keep in mind, this is more of an issue for light concrete rather than asphalt driveways since they stain more easily. So, first, sweep any debris away before spraying your driveway with water to wash away any lingering dirt. Next, fill a bucket with around three gallons of hot water mixed with half a cup of liquid soap.
Use a stiff-bristle brush to then scrub your driveway with the solution. Rinse with water and apply stain-removing powered laundry detergent to the stains while they’re still wet. Leave for a few minutes, scrub, and rinse.
Looking after your driveway can boost curb appeal and the value of your home. By knowing the most effective ways to get rid of debris, tire marks, and organic matter and stains, you can keep your driveway in tip-top condition.