Concrete
- Sealing (every 2–3 years): $0.50–$1.50 per sq. ft.
- Crack repair and patching: $150–$600 depending on scope
- Power washing and stain removal: $150–$300
Driveway Maintenance Costs (What to Expect)
Budgeting for ongoing maintenance helps you extend the life of your driveway and avoid costly emergency fixes. Below is a practical overview by material.
Cold Climates (Freeze–Thaw)
- Favor flexible materials (asphalt, pavers) or sealed concrete with proper air entrainment.
- Use calcium chloride instead of rock salt on concrete and pavers.
- Seal cracks early and keep joints filled to limit water intrusion.
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Asphalt
- Sealcoating (every 1–3 years): $0.20–$0.50 per sq. ft.
- Pothole repair and patching: $100–$500+
- Edge reinforcement and leveling: varies by contractor
Gravel
- Top-up gravel (annually or as needed): $25–$60 per ton
- Regrading/raking for rut removal: DIY or $100–$300
- Weed control and edging: $50–$200
Pavers
- Polymeric sand refresh (every 2–4 years): $0.50–$1.00 per sq. ft.
- Individual paver reset/replacement: $5–$20 per unit
- Cleaning and sealing: $0.75–$2.00 per sq. ft.
Seasonal Tips
- Winter: avoid metal shovels on pavers; use calcium chloride instead of rock salt on concrete.
- Spring: inspect for cracks and drainage issues after thaw; schedule sealing as temperatures warm.
- Summer: address oil stains quickly to prevent penetration and discoloration.
- Fall: clear leaves and debris to prevent moisture retention and freeze–thaw damage.
Regional Considerations
- Cold climates: set aside budget for more frequent crack sealing (freeze–thaw), use calcium chloride on concrete, and expect faster wear on asphalt without sealcoating.
- Hot climates: asphalt may soften in peak heat—consider higher-quality mixes and regular sealcoating; concrete can reflect heat but may require periodic cleaning to prevent staining.
- Coastal/salt exposure: de-icing salts and marine air accelerate corrosion—choose sealed concrete or pavers and rinse surfaces periodically.
Usage Scenarios
- Light residential: focus on stain prevention and simple crack repair; sealing intervals can be longer.
- Daily multi-car traffic: increase sealing frequency and plan for local patching to prevent small issues from spreading.
- Heavy vehicles/commercial loads: consider thicker sections or pavers; budget for base reinforcement and more frequent surface maintenance.