Here are some factors to consider when you’re assessing the pros and cons of the cost to seal your concrete driveway.
* Cost –
How much money can you afford to spend on sealing your driveway? You’ll need to get an estimate for how much it will cost to seal your driveway, but keep in mind that prices vary depending on your geographic location, the size of your driveway, and how many coats you choose to apply.
* Convenience –
How much time, effort and skill do you have? Sealing a driveway is more difficult than painting a wall or doing some other types of home improvement projects because it requires preparation, patience, and careful application. If you don’t have the time, patience, or skills for this type of project, you might want to hire a professional.
* Depth –
How thick is your driveway? Sealing a thin driveway isn’t nearly as effective as sealing one that’s several inches thick because it won’t provide enough protection from the elements. You’ll need to find out how thick your driveway is to determine whether or not it needs to be sealed.
* Exposure –
Where is your driveway located? If it’s exposed to direct sunlight year-round, the ultraviolet rays will break down the sealant more quickly than if it was on the shady side of your house. You’ll need to make some adjustments depending on how much sun your driveway gets.
* Quality –
What is the quality of your sealant? A good sealant will last for several years, while a lower-quality brand might not be worth the cost if you have to re-seal it yearly. You’ll need to do some research on different brands and how long they typically last to determine which kind of product you should buy.
* Purpose –
Will your driveway be used for a commercial purpose? If you’re going to use your driveway for heavy traffic, it might need to be sealed more frequently than if you were using it only for personal purposes. The amount of wear and tear will directly impact how often you’ll need to re-seal it.
* Environment –
What is the environment like around your house? If your neighborhood is on a busy street or near a construction site, it might be more difficult to maintain the quality of your sealant because of all the dust and dirt in the air. You’ll need to assess all these factors before sealing your driveway.
Here are some common pros and cons about sealing your concrete driveway:
* Pros –
* A sealed driveway will last longer.
* It provides good traction for vehicles.
* You don’t have to re-paint or re-stain it every year.
* It protects against stains, fading and weathering.
* Your driveway will be protected from the elements.
* Helps your house look more aesthetically pleasing.
* Cons –
* It’s expensive and time-consuming.
* You’ll need to take care of it properly to ensure it lasts as long as possible.
* Not all types of sealant protect against oil stains, so it might require re-sealing or re-painting after about a year or two depending on where you live and how much traffic your driveway gets.
Use these factors when assessing the pros and cons of sealing your concrete driveway so that you can decide whether or not this is the right decision for you.
